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Articles by topic Learn More About This Topic Mammals Mammals fill many roles in our ecosystems and have adapted to fill a variety of niches where they can truly thrive. While some of these wide-ranging furry friends can be found throughout the state, some of them are more reclusive and can only be found in specific habitats. Learn about all the cool ways mammals contribute to our ecology. Learn More About This Topic Pennsylvania Trees There are around 200 common species of trees in Pennsylvania, and about two-thirds are natives. Learn More About This Topic Spring Birds From the first signs of spring, with the return of robins, to their eggs produced around Easter, spring is synonymous with birds. Learn More About This Topic Woodcocks The American woodcock is a fascinatingly strange bird. Commonly referred to as the timberdoodle, the American woodcock inhabits wet, scrubby woodlands and produces one the greatest mating ritual feats of the avian world. Learn More About This Topic Amphibians Learn more about amphibians and their migration to vernal pools, a type of seasonal pond, in and around the Scotia Barrens. Each spring these guys and gals saunter back to the exact same spot to find a mate often crossing hundreds of yards, a massive journey for a 2-inch creature! Learn More About This Topic Weather Weather is wild! Learn about all the cool, and hot, ways weather systems form, what different clouds mean for forecasting, and fascinating weather phenomenon that are a part of living in the truly dynamic mid-atlantic. Learn More About This Topic Summer Bugs The soundtrack of summer is not complete without the cacophony that our warm-season bugs produce. The same is also true of the moths, butterflies, and fireflies that define the summer sights. Learn about all the critters that perform day and night to the tune of summer. Learn More About This Topic Old Growth Trees There are around 8,000,000,000 trees in Pennsylvania covering over 16,000,000 acres, but only .06% of that contain trees predating the 20th century. Either through early colonization or the later boom-and-bust cycles much of the old-growth forests no longer remain, but we have pockets of theses ancient trees right here in our backyard. Explore some of these sylvan sanctuaries and discover what Pennsylvania was like before people. Learn More About This Topic Lake Ecosystems Large lakes in Pennsylvania are almost exclusively man-made. That doesn’t keep them form forming natural cycles and forming the own ecosystems, however. Jump into the ecology of our lakes and find out what lurks beneath the surface of several lakes in our area. Learn More About This Topic Scotia and Iron History Scotia is an area rich in cultural and geologic history. A humble pick-and-shovel operation that eventually turned into one of main focuses for Andrew Carnegie; join us as we explore some of the more fascinating anecdotes with the leading historian on the subject. Learn More About This Topic Threatened Trees Chestnuts, once so plentiful that entire regions are named after them, are now a critically endangered species. Examine some of the threats facing our modern forests and what efforts are being taken to insure the historic diversity of our forests remains for future generations. Learn More About This Topic Summer Birds The spring and fall bring the greatest diversity of birds to our region, but what about all the ones that call this place home? Dive into a new understanding of our summer avian residents and learn about some of our friendly flying friends. We will explore species that have adapted to cohabitate with humans and secretive forest dwelling birds. Learn More About This Topic Public Art Public art unites our community in ways few other physical objects can. Learn about the history of public art throughout central Pennsylvania, where to find pieces that are hidden in plain sight, and how many of these installations came to be. Learn More About This Topic Modern Sustainability Practices What are some of the leading innovations in the sustainability movement? Learn about the work going into making central Pennsylvania a better place to call home and reducing our impact on the world. Learn More About This Topic Historic Land Uses Take a trip back to the early days of human exploration of central Pennsylvania. From the earliest inhabitants to the rapid progression of colonial expansion land use in our community has changed drastically. Follow along as we dive into our unique cultural history and what these important events mean for us today. Learn More About This Topic Geologic Formations We have an unusual geologic history in Pennsylvania, our rocks are upside-down! All of our young rocks make up the valley floors while the older formations are what make up the higher ridges. The same ridges that define our region also helped shape the socio-economic development of our communities. Take some time to explore why rocks rock! Learn More About This Topic Waterways Pennsylvania has over 80,000 miles of streams and waterways, and we have the highest stream density of any state! We are indeed a well drained land, and you can scarce find a place to throw a rock that won’t hit a stream. Find out more about a water heritage and the important factors that have come together to make our home so replete with waterways. Learn More About This Topic Reptiles There are a wide assortment of reptiles in Pennsylvania; turtles, snakes, and lizards across every biome. Explore the different habitats that harbor these scaly friends, the work that goes into protecting them, and how likely you are to run across one on an adventure. Learn More About This Topic Pollinators Pollinators are essential for our way of life. They help out everything from apples to zucchini reproduce and are essential to a healthy garden. Discover all the varieties of pollinators that contribute to plant reproduction and how to create pollinator friendly habitats. Learn More About This Topic Invasive Species Invasive species are often introduced into an environment and can cause severe harm to those already present. Invasive often have an advantage over their competitors that make them more successful while providing less to the ecosystem than the ones they would be replacing. Learn about the various types of invasive plants, how to identify them, and management strategies to keep them from spreading out of control. Learn More About This Topic Native Wildflowers Spring time is synonymous with flowers. From rue anemone to trillium and columbine to jack-in-the-pulpit, a wide variety starts to bloom in the first weeks of May. Many of these early-blooming species can be found on many trails throughout our region. It is often worth visiting a new trail every week to see what new blooms have opened and what others have started to go to seed. Learn More About This Topic Watershed Cleanup Join the community and help keep our public open spaces, roadways, and trails clear of waste that can end up in our waterways. Learn More About This Topic Spring Bugs Not all bugs are bad! Many of the springtime hatches form an essential part of the lifecycle of everything from fish to birds. Learn about the aquatic lifestyle of some of the most prevalent spring bugs. We will dive in and take a closer look at mayflies, stoneflies, dragonflies, and craneflies. Learn More About This Topic

Take a scenic walk along the Pennsylvania Mid State Trail and through the Poe Paddy Tunnel at Poe Paddy State Park. The trail is welcoming, with wide, flat, even terrain - making this adventure well-suited for people of all ages and fitness levels. Poe Paddy Tunnel Tunnel Spur Rd, Woodward, Haines Township, PA, USA Take a scenic walk along the Pennsylvania Mid State Trail and through the Poe Paddy Tunnel at Poe Paddy State Park. The trail is welcoming, with wide, flat, even terrain - making this adventure well-suited for people of all ages and fitness levels. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Take a short trek along the Pennsylvania Mid State Trail. The adventure begins with a memorable walk through Poe Paddy Tunnel. After brief darkness in the tunnel you will be greeted by gorgeous views of Penn’s Creek, birdsongs, and an abundance of plants and trees surrounding the Mid State Trail. The trail is welcoming, with wide, flat, even terrain - making this adventure well-suited for people of all ages and fitness levels. GPS Link to this location: Tunnel Spur Road, Haines Twp, PA Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility See Destination website for more information or contact Managing organization. Visit On Your Own Tunnel Spur Rd, Woodward, Haines Township, PA, USA Googlemap

Waterways Pennsylvania has over 80,000 miles of streams and waterways, and we have the highest stream density of any state! We are indeed a well drained land, and you can scarce find a place to throw a rock that won’t hit a stream. Find out more about a water heritage and the important factors that have come together to make our home so replete with waterways. LEARN MORE Inside Adventure Create a DIY Watershed! Visit these sites to experience this topic: Canoe Creek State Park Unplug and unwind at Canoe Creek State Park, where you can immerse yourself in 961-acres of nature, including Canoe Lake where you can swim and fish, wetlands, and mature forests. Canoe Creek State Park 205 Canoe Creek Rd, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648 Poe Paddy Tunnel Take a scenic walk along the Pennsylvania Mid State Trail and through the Poe Paddy Tunnel at Poe Paddy State Park. The trail is welcoming, with wide, flat, even terrain - making this adventure well-suited for people of all ages and fitness levels. Poe Paddy State Park Tunnel Spur Rd., Haines Township, PA Lower Rail Trail Originally a tow path for the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal, the trail has been transformed into a community treasure by the dedication of Rails to Trails of Central Pennsylvania Inc. Lower Rail Trail Lower Trail Williamsburg Station, 11 Juniata St., Williamsburg, PA 16693 Prince Gallitzin State Park With 26 miles of scenic shoreline, the park offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Prince Gallitzin State Park Prince Gallitzin, Muskrat Beach Area #3, Muskrat Beach, Muskrat Beach Rd, Patton, PA 16668 Millbrook Marsh Nature Center Discover the unique features of the marsh and fen ecosystems along the trails at Millbrook Marsh. Enjoy wildlife viewing underwater, in the air, and all around you on land! From skunk cabbage to red-winged blackbirds Millbrook offers opportunites to expereince what nature has to offer. Millbrook Marsh Nature Center 548 Puddintown Rd, State College, PA 16801 Talleyrand Park Explore the historic features of Talleyrand Park including the Edible Landscape Garden, the Freight House, the Sculpture Garden, the many bridges crossing Spring Creek and more. Talleyrand Park 320 W High St, Bellefonte, PA 16823, USA

Weather Weather is wild! Learn about all the cool, and hot, ways weather systems form, what different clouds mean for forecasting, and fascinating weather phenomenon that are a part of living in the truly dynamic mid-atlantic. LEARN MORE Inside Adventure Coming Soon! Visit these sites to experience this topic: Barrens to Bald Eagle Wildlife Corridor The Barrens to Bald Eagle Wildlife Corridor was conserved by ClearWater Conservancy in 2010 to create safe passage for wildlife species between Bald Eagle Mountain and the Scotia Barrens. Barrens to Bald Eagle Wildlife Corridor 264 Harness Downs Rd, Port Matilda, PA 16870, USA Rhoneymeade Rhoneymeade, the historic homestead of Grange Fair founder, Leonard Rhone hosts a wide variety of plant species and art. Take an invigorating 2-mile hike around the grounds or a shorter, 0.5 mile walking tour of the gardens around the homestead. No pets permitted. Visit Rhoneymeade's website for hours prior to visiting. Rhoneymeade 177 Rimmey Rd, Centre Hall, PA 16828 Black Moshannon State Park Guests can utilize any of the park’s multiple trails to adventure along one of the coolest spots in Pennsylvania. Black Moshannon State Park 4216 Beaver Rd, Philipsburg, PA 16866, USA Mount Nittany Visit one of Centre County's most famous landmarks to hike along history and see what effort goes into preserving a cultural touchstone. Mount Nittany Trailhead 500 Mount Nittany Rd, Lemont, PA 16851, USA

One of six natural areas in Rothrock State Forest, Little Juniata Natural Area in Huntingdon County has earned this special designation in large part because of its unique geology. Little Juniata Natural Area 6205 Mountain Road, Alexandria, PA, USA One of six natural areas in Rothrock State Forest, Little Juniata Natural Area in Huntingdon County has earned this special designation in large part because of its unique geology. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination One of six natural areas in Rothrock State Forest, Little Juniata Natural Area in Huntingdon County has earned this special designation in large part because of its unique geology. The Little Juniata River, often referred to as the “Little J,” flows through the natural area. As you explore be sure to admire and appreciate the river’s restored health and beauty made possible by the Clean Water Act of 1972 and countless individuals and organizations committed to protecting a waterway once used for dumping industrial waste. LOCATION NOTE: A shared parking area for both the Little Juniata Natural Area , and the Mid-state Trail (MST) Barree Trailhead , is located at the end of Mountain Road. Continue past all Private Property on Mountain Road until you reach the large gravel parking area. Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility Not ADA accessible. See Destination website for more information. Visit On Your Own 6205 Mountain Road, Alexandria, PA, USA Parking for both the Little Juniata Natural Area, and the Mid-state Trail (MST) Barree Trailhead, is located at the end of Mountain Road. Continue past all Private Property on Mountain Road until you reach the large gravel parking area. Googlemap

Find transportation options to Centre County and regional outdoor recreation destinations. Sign up for Van Service to select Events. transportation Outdoor destinations in central Pennsylvania are always close by, and Centred Outdoors wants to help you get there. Transportation options include public buses, on-demand ride services, or community car-pools. Access to nature is a core priority for Centred Outdoors. If transportation is a barrier, we’re here to help. Reach out to us (info@centredoutdoors.org) if you need assistance getting to any of our events – we’re committed to helping participants find a way to join us on the trail Getting there is the first step! Contact Us Local Transportation Options The following transportation options can help you reach your next Destination in central PA. For destinations within a few miles of downtown State College, PA, CATA (Centre Area Transportation Authority) may offer public bus routes or on-demand CATA Go! service. CATA Bus CATA System Map Community Car Pool Join our Facebook Group to view and share ride offers and requests! CATA Go! On-demand Service for Boalsburg, Bellefonte, and Pleasant Gap Bike Routes Centre County is home to miles of bicycle routes. Find out more! Taxi Service Nittany Express Ride app

Explore the trail that loops around the lake and nearby forest, then afterwards rent a boat or bring your kayak to explore the lake. Whipple Dam State Park Whipple Dam State Park, Laurel Run Road, Petersburg, PA, USA Explore the trail that loops around the lake and nearby forest, then afterwards rent a boat or bring your kayak to explore the lake. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Go on an adventure in one of Central Pennsylvania's hidden gems, Whipple Dam. This 256-acre park is a quiet retreat that offers ample opportunities to view wildlife, go for a swim, or listen to live music! Explore the trail that loops around the lake and nearby forest, then afterwards rent a boat or bring your kayak to explore the lake. Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility See Destination website for more information or contact Managing organization. Visit On Your Own Whipple Dam State Park, Laurel Run Road, Petersburg, PA, USA Googlemap

Unplug and unwind at Canoe Creek State Park, where you can immerse yourself in 961-acres of nature, including Canoe Lake where you can swim and fish, wetlands, and mature forests. Canoe Creek State Park Canoe Creek State Park, 205 Canoe Creek Road, Hollidaysburg, PA, USA Unplug and unwind at Canoe Creek State Park, where you can immerse yourself in 961-acres of nature, including Canoe Lake where you can swim and fish, wetlands, and mature forests. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Unplug and unwind at Canoe Creek State Park, where you can immerse yourself in 961-acres of nature, including Canoe Lake where you can swim and fish, wetlands, and mature forests. For rock lovers, notice the limestone-rich geologic formations that once supported the state’s iron and steel industry. With 12 miles of hiking trails and plenty of picnic tables, the most difficult part about a visit here might be leaving after a memorable day at the park. Photo credit: Shamsa Anwar Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility See source: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/CanoeCreekStatePark/Pages/Maps.aspx for a Recreation Guide Alternative Text Format that includes information about accessible facilities at this location. " This activity or structure is ADA accessible. All facilities are ADA accessible. With prior approval, service roads can be used for loading and unloading. If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the park you plan to visit." Visit On Your Own Canoe Creek State Park, 205 Canoe Creek Road, Hollidaysburg, PA, USA Googlemap

This 91-acre area in the midst of State College includes a  community garden, dog park, small horse farm, playground  and pavilions, 61 acres of passive land, and the Snetsinger  Butterfly Garden. You’ll see it all when meandering the  park’s 1.3 mile walking and running loop. Tom Tudek Memorial Park Tom Tudek Memorial Park, Herman Drive, State College, PA, USA This 91-acre area in the midst of State College includes a community garden, dog park, small horse farm, playground and pavilions, 61 acres of passive land, and the Snetsinger Butterfly Garden. You’ll see it all when meandering the park’s 1.3 mile walking and running loop. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Tom Tudek Memorial Park, the most frequently visited park in the Centre region, is home to the Snetsinger Butterfly Garden Habitat (SBG), an educational site of approximately 3 acres located in the northwest portion of the park. It’s a diverse ecosystem with over 40 species of resident butterflies, many native bees and birds, and hundreds of native plants that serve as food and shelter for pollinators and other wildlife. GPS Link for this location: 400 Herman Drive, State College, PA 16803 Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: Ferguson Township For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: Ferguson Township maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility See Destination website for more information or contact Managing organization. Visit On Your Own Tom Tudek Memorial Park, Herman Drive, State College, PA, USA Googlemap

This passive parkland is ideal for activities such as hiking, bird watching, and nature study. Patton Woods Patton Woods Natural Recreation Area, Circleville Road, State College, PA, USA This passive parkland is ideal for activities such as hiking, bird watching, and nature study. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Discover the serene beauty of Patton Woods Natural Recreation Area, a 63-acre expanse in Patton Township that offers a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts. This passive parkland is ideal for activities such as hiking, bird watching, and nature study. The area features a trail system that meanders through diverse habitats, providing opportunities for wildlife observation and peaceful reflection. Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: Patton Township For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: Patton Township maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility Not ADA accessible. See Destination website for more information. Visit On Your Own Patton Woods Natural Recreation Area, Circleville Road, State College, PA, USA Googlemap

Climb up the Allegheny Front and look out over the Centre region from one of highest vantages. Allegheny Front Trail Allegheny Front Trail, Snow Shoe, PA, USA Climb up the Allegheny Front and look out over the Centre region from one of highest vantages. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Climb up the Allegheny Front and look out over the Centre region from one of highest vantages. Visitors can see the effects of the microclimate the front produces as the fall colors set in much earlier and the types of flora vary drastically than those found in the valleys below. This trail takes a forested path with no surface improvements, care should be taken. Alternative routes starting on Underwood Road are possible for the self-explorer. Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility Not ADA accessible. See Destination website for more information. Visit On Your Own Allegheny Front Trail, Snow Shoe, PA, USA Googlemap

Traverse up to three miles of mulched trails at the Boal Estate through habitats ranging from wetlands to upland forest. Boal Mansion 148a Boal Estate Drive, Boalsburg, PA, USA Traverse up to three miles of mulched trails at the Boal Estate through habitats ranging from wetlands to upland forest. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Traverse up to three miles of mulched trails at the Boal Estate through habitats ranging from wetlands to upland forest. The trail system was designed as a large wheel (the outer loop) with radiating interconnecting loops. The trails, built and maintained exclusively by volunteers, are easy to moderate with some slight elevation. There are numerous outdoor educational boards along the various trails, most are a result of Eagle Scout projects. Hikers will observe a wide range of flora as well and more than 1,000 tree shelters from an ongoing program to further diversify species and compensate for the ongoing loss of trees to invasive species and climate change. Main Photo credit: Boal Mansion Museum Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: The Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: The Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility Not ADA accessible. See Destination website for more information. Visit On Your Own 148a Boal Estate Drive, Boalsburg, PA, USA Googlemap