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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

Find outdoor recreation destinations in and around Centre County. Centred Outdoors offers free, guided outings and wellness activities near State College and Penn State. COMING SOON Just like the trail ahead, the best views take a little patience. Our new site is coming soon. Subscribe to get the latest updates Find your kind of nature. Browse our list of outdoor destinations in central Pennsylvania. Explore Join the adventure! Sign up for our Adventure Guide eNews for event information, health and safety tips, and more. Subscribe Latest Issue Discover and explore outdoor recreation destinations in Central Pennsylvania Experience all the benefits that time in nature provides! Browse our list of Destinations or participate in our Events . Find local Transportation options. Sign up to receive our Adventure Guide emails, and receive details and directions for awe-inspiring guided adventures and wellness activities at destinations in and around State College, PA and Penn State University. Centred Outdoors events are always free, and open to everyone. Other events listed may be sponsored by other organizations and have their own registration requirements - check event details. See All Events Get Inspired Find your place in the outdoors. Browse Destinations Centred Outdoors is an invitation to everyone, of every age, background, or fitness level, to explore and enjoy outdoor recreation destinations throughout Centre and surrounding counties. The Centred Outdoors program promotes a community that continually visits, enjoys, and cares for the region’s natural assets. reserve gear Reserve gear to use during Centred Outdoors outings and enjoy the outdoors in comfort! LEARN MORE Articles Articles Articles Articles VIEW ALL Intro to Canoe Paddling Jun 24 No Gear? No Problem: How Centred Outdoors Is Opening the Outdoors to Everyone May 11 Centred Outdoors Wraps Up Its Ninth Season of Exploration and Connection Nov 4, 2025 OUR PARTNERS CONTACT US let's connect SOCIAL EMAIL info@centredoutdoors.org phone 814 - 237 - 0400 ADDRESS 2555 N. Atherton St. State College, PA

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

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

Connect with the past while visiting a monument in honor of James Cleveland, an airmail pilot who passed away in May 1931 in a plane crash on Mount Nittany between Centre Hall and Pleasant Gap. James Cleveland Trail James Cleveland Trail, Greens Valley Road, Centre Hall, PA, USA Connect with the past while visiting a monument in honor of James Cleveland, an airmail pilot who passed away in May 1931 in a plane crash on Mount Nittany between Centre Hall and Pleasant Gap. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination The James Cleveland Trail begins at Greens Valley Road. Connect with the past via hike up to a monument in honor of James Cleveland, an airmail pilot who passed away in May 1931 in a plane crash on Mount Nittany between Centre Hall and Pleasant Gap. Follow the trail to reach the top where an inscribed pillar and wreckage from the tragic accident memorialize this prominent piece of Centre County history. 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 James Cleveland Trail, Greens Valley Road, Centre Hall, PA, USA Googlemap

A program of ClearWater Conservancy, Centred Outdoors is an invitation to everyone, of every age, background, or fitness level, to explore and enjoy outdoor recreation destinations throughout Centre and surrounding counties. Centred Outdoors is committed to addressing and lowering the barriers to outdoor programming to ensure that people of all identities and abilities have access to opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in a way that is comfortable, safe, and fun. About CENTRED OUTDOORS Stress Less, Discover more! A program of ClearWater Conservancy, Centred Outdoors is an invitation to everyone, of every age, background, or fitness level, to explore and enjoy outdoor recreation destinations throughout Centre and surrounding counties. There is never a cost to participate and events are always open to the public. Awe for all Centred Outdoors is committed to addressing and lowering the barriers to outdoor programming to ensure that people of all identities and abilities have access to opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in a way that is comfortable, safe, and fun. Through accessible and inclusive outings, we can support healthy communities and the growth of more diverse participation in the conservation movement. love where you live Centred Outdoors promotes a community that continually visits, enjoys, and cares for the region’s natural assets. Gratitude for local landscapes and wildlife grows when experienced firsthand, and a desire to protect them for future generations also deepens. Through guided outings and wellness activities, Centred Outdoors participants experience the connection between time spent outdoors, improved health and wellness, and the need for local land and water conservation efforts. Upcoming events pARTNERS MAKE IT POSSIBLE Centred Outdoors originally launched in 2017 with support from a Centre Foundation “Centre Inspires” grant. The success of this program has continued with additional backing by Pennsylvania DCNR, Mount Nittany Health, the Hamer Foundation, and the Richard King Mellon Foundation. Now in its tenth season, Centred Outdoors continues to connect people with natural places and each other to benefit communities, people, and the environment. Community support also makes Centred Outdoors possible - thank you for considering a donation through a donation to ClearWater Conservancy to support these ongoing efforts.

Climb from the creekside at Galbraith Gap to the top of Little Flat on the challenging Spruce Gap trail. Spruce Gap Galbraith Parking Lot, Bear Meadows Road, Boalsburg, PA, USA Climb from the creekside at Galbraith Gap to the top of Little Flat on the challenging Spruce Gap trail. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Climb from the creekside at Galbraith Gap to the top of Little Flat on the challenging Spruce Gap trail. Follow the beautiful stone of Lonberger Path before turning towards Three Bridges Trail. The Spruce Gap ascent is an example of a fall line trail, which presents challenges due to erosion and steep terrain, straight up the mountainside. Reaching the Mid State Trail at the top, turn right to see the Little Flat Fire Tower and descend via Old Laurel Run. 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 Galbraith Parking Lot, Bear Meadows Road, Boalsburg, PA, USA 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

Easy walks in local parks over the lunch hour. No registration is required! events Fresh Air Walks consists of easy walks at local parks over the lunch hour. No registration is required. Conditions will vary but these walks are always rain or shine! For information about visiting these or other locations on your own, see All Destinations . About Difficulty Levels List View Calendar View All Events Easy Moderate Difficult Wellness Wednesday Guided Outings Adventure Hikes No events at the moment Back to List View All Upcoming Events July 2026 Today Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 28 1:00 PM Tussey Mountain Trail: Adventure Hike 29 30 1 6:00 PM CANCELLED: Wellness Wednesday: Art in Nature 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 10:00 AM Guided Paddle Tour at Lake Perez 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 8:00 PM Full Moon Paddle at Lake Perez 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Calendar View

This hike offers a chance to explore the Cooper's Gap and Chestnut Spring area of Rothrock Forest. Dutch Alvin Trail Jackson Township, PA, USA This hike offers a chance to explore the Cooper's Gap and Chestnut Spring area of Rothrock Forest. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination This hike offers a chance to explore the Cooper's Gap and Chestnut Spring area of Rothrock Forest. Meander along the mountain laurels, hemlocks, and tall-standing pines of the Dutch Alvin Trail as you gently ascend to the ridge. Clearings of open forest at the summit allow views of Broad Mountain and surrounding natural areas to the west. Don’t forget to enjoy some blueberries along the way when in season! 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 Jackson Township, PA, USA Googlemap

The Little Flat Fire Tower,  a memorable landmark along the Mid-State Trail, was constructed in the mid-1900's to help spot wildfires in the state forest. Explore a popular 3.6 mile hiking loop in this area, or park near the tower and explore shorter sections of the Mid-State and Old Laurel Run Trails. Little Flat Fire Tower Area Little Flat Fire Tower, Little Flat Tower Road, State College, PA, USA The Little Flat Fire Tower, a memorable landmark along the Mid-State Trail, was constructed in the mid-1900's to help spot wildfires in the state forest. Explore a popular 3.6 mile hiking loop in this area, or park near the tower and explore shorter sections of the Mid-State and Old Laurel Run Trails. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination The Little Flat Fire Tower, a memorable landmark along the Mid-State Trail, was constructed in the early-1900's to help spot wildfires in the state forest. Explore a popular 3.6 mile hiking loop in this area, or park near the tower and explore shorter sections of the Mid-State and Old Laurel Run Trails. Depending on the season, blooming mountain laurel, blueberry bushes, fragrant areas of fern, mushrooms, and massive rhododendrons await you in this awe-inspiring area of forest. The base of the tower is a lovely picnic spot the area also boasts a multitude of divergent trails to explore. Address & Parking Info: 🚗 **There is typically a closed gate about a mile from this GPS location Click here for the exact GPS coordinate of the parking lot . 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 Little Flat Fire Tower, Little Flat Tower Road, State College, PA, USA Googlemap

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 Inside Adventure Pollinator Homestead Visit these sites to experience this topic: Bald Eagle State Park Get out and explore the biodiversity and interesting trails of Bald Eagle State Park with your field guide and binoculars. Bald Eagle State Park 149 Main Park Rd, Howard, PA 16841, USA 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 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 The Arboretum at Penn State-Hartley Wood Enjoy a walk through Hartley Wood. The Arboretum at Penn State E Park Ave & Bigler Rd, State College, PA 16803, USA Greenwood Furnace State Park Tour historic Greenwood Furnace State Park and learn about the early days of the Pennsylvania iron industry. Greenwood Furnace State Park 15795 Greenwood Rd, Huntingdon, PA 16652, USA