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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

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 Rails To Trails Inc, 11 Juniata Street, Williamsburg, PA, USA 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. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Stroll along the Lower (pronounced lau-er) Trail and keep an eye out for rare bird species in this important migratory bird area with beautiful vistas. Visitors are welcome to bring their bikes to experience more of the 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. GPS link for this location: Lower Trail Williamsburg Station, 11 Juniata St., Williamsburg, PA 16693 Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: Rails to Trails of Central Pennsylvania For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: Rails to Trails of Central Pennsylvania maps Google Maps Location (for Self-guided Outings) Centred Outdoors Outing Map (if available) ADA Accessibility From the Rails to Trails of Central PA website: "The Lower Trail runs for almost 17 miles from near Canoe Creek State Park in Blair County northeastward to near Alexandria in Huntingdon County. The trail has a rolled crushed limestone surface except for a 2 mile asphalt section through the Borough of Williamsburg and running northeastward. The trail is extremely flat with only a slightly noticeable grade when riding from east to west. The Lower Trail is open year-round for hiking, biking, horseback riding, bird watching and photography and, in the winter months, cross country skiing and snowshoeing (any non-motorized use)." See more info and images of the trail at http://rttcpa.org/lower.shtml Visit On Your Own Rails To Trails Inc, 11 Juniata Street, Williamsburg, PA, USA Googlemap

Trek along the top of one of our ridges starting at the Jo Hays Vista parking lot and see dueling vistas looking both south and north. Jo Hays Vista Jo Hays Vista, Ferguson Township, PA, USA Trek along the top of one of our ridges starting at the Jo Hays Vista parking lot and see dueling vistas looking both south and north. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Jo Hays Vista is a magnificent, easily accessible view of the Nittany Valley from the Tussey Mountain ridgeline. Situated along PA 26 S just outside of Pine Grove Mills, PA, this popular destination also provides easy access to the Mid State Trail and other vistas to the south and north. Trek along the Mid State Trail to the south, and you'll reach the site of the yearly Tussey Mountain Spring Hawkwatch . Golden Eagles and other raptor species are counted here each February and early March, during their Spring migration! For a different vantage point, park on the 26 N side and take Jackson Trail 0.75 mile north to David’s Vista. This view of Rothrock State Forest offers another opportunity to see what makes our ridge-and-valley topography so memorable. 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 Vista is viewable by car. No existing pathways. One bench provided at vista. Visit On Your Own Jo Hays Vista, Ferguson Township, PA, USA Googlemap

This path is known for its flowing terrain, making it accessible for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers alike. Lonberger Path State College, PA, USA This path is known for its flowing terrain, making it accessible for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers alike. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Experience the natural beauty of Rothrock State Forest by exploring the Lonberger Path, a trail that offers a serene experience for outdoor enthusiasts. This path is known for its flowing terrain, making it accessible for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers alike. Encounter a variety of forest ecosystems, including stands of Eastern hemlock and Eastern white pine, which are characteristic of the area's natural heritage. Lonberger Path is most easily accessed from the Galbraith Gap Parking Area, and a short hike along the Galbraith Gap trail to Lonberger. There is also a small pull-off for 2-3 vehicles where Lonberger Path begins on Laurel Run Rd. 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 State College, PA, USA Rothrock State Forest Googlemap

Join any Centred Outdoors outing and borrow one of our Jr. Naturalist backpacks to take on your adventure! Inside you'll find all the tools and guides you need to be a real Naturalist. Discover plants, animals, insects, or anything else you find on the trail. Record your observations, take pictures, and share what you find! Our event leaders will show you how to use everything contained in the backpacks, and you'll learn so much more about the natural world at every Centred Outdoors destination! BE A JUNIOR NATURALIST! Join any Centred Outdoors outing and borrow one of our Jr. Naturalist toolkits to take on your adventure! Inside you'll find all the tools and guides you need to be a real Naturalist. Discover plants, animals, insects, or anything else you find on the trail. Record your observations, take pictures, and share what you find! Our event leaders will show you how to use everything contained in the backpacks, and you'll learn so much more about the natural world at every Centred Outdoors destination! DO YOU HAVE KNOWLEDGE TO SHARE? If you are familiar with the area and would like to share what you know with others, wear one of our Sr. Naturalist pins during our outings! Anyone can be a Naturalist by observing their environment and sharing their knowledge with others.

This steep climb features a few switchbacks leading to Indian Lookout, offering expansive views of Spruce Creek. Yellow Arrow Trail To State Forest Picnic Area Road, Spruce Creek, PA, USA This steep climb features a few switchbacks leading to Indian Lookout, offering expansive views of Spruce Creek. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Experience the beauty of the Yellow Arrow Trail in Rothrock State Forest, a premier path for outdoor enthusiasts seeking panoramic vistas. This steep climb features a few switchbacks leading to Indian Lookout, offering expansive views of Spruce Creek, Canoe Mountain, Brush Mountain, and the distant Bald Eagle Mountain. This destination offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, making it an ideal spot for hikers looking for a challenging outing. 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 To State Forest Picnic Area Road, Spruce Creek, PA, USA Googlemap

The park includes the first hand-laid dam constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. Raymond B. Winter State Park Raymond B. Winter State Park, Buffalo Road, Mifflinburg, PA, USA The park includes the first hand-laid dam constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Raymond B. Winter State Park sits in a sandstone basin, supporting the spring-fed Halfway Lake and a variety of recreation opportunities. Many shorter, hiking-only trails pass near the lake, or find a view along the Overlook Trail. Located within Bald Eagle State Forest, the park includes the first hand-laid dam constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The trail travels through the Rapid Run Natural Area, the first State Park Natural Area. Natural areas were established for scientific observation, to protect native plant and wildlife communities, and to preserve its beauty for future generations. We'll learn about the park's environmental history, while observing our native plant and wildlife species." 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 Raymond B. Winter State Park, Buffalo Road, Mifflinburg, PA, USA Googlemap

A 220-acre wilderness nestled in the New Lancaster Valley of Mifflin County. Reeds Gap State Park Reeds Gap State Park, New Lancaster Valley Road, Milroy, PA, USA A 220-acre wilderness nestled in the New Lancaster Valley of Mifflin County. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Experience the natural beauty of Reeds Gap State Park, a 220-acre wilderness nestled in the New Lancaster Valley of Mifflin County. The park derives its name from Edward and Nancy Reed, who established a water-powered sawmill along Honey Creek in the mid-19th century. Towering hemlocks and white pines provide a serene canopy over Honey Creek, a pristine waterway that meanders through the park. 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 Reeds Gap State Park, New Lancaster Valley Road, Milroy, PA, USA Googlemap

Follow a section of the Standing Stone Trail to experience a beautiful example of the Appalachian Range close to home. The trail stretches a total distance of 85 miles, beginning at Cowans Gap State Park and ending in Alan Seeger Natural Area in Rothrock State Forest. Standing Stone Trail Monsell Trail Parking, Belleville, PA, USA Follow a section of the Standing Stone Trail to experience a beautiful example of the Appalachian Range close to home. The trail stretches a total distance of 85 miles, beginning at Cowans Gap State Park and ending in Alan Seeger Natural Area in Rothrock State Forest. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Follow a section of the Standing Stone Trail to experience a beautiful example of the Appalachian Range close to home. The trail stretches a total distance of 85 miles, beginning at Cowans Gap State Park and ending in Alan Seeger Natural Area in Rothrock State Forest. Beginning near Greenwood Furnace State Park, you can enjoy a vigorous 4.54 mile hike along a portion of the SST. This loop utilizes the Standing Stone Trail (SST), Turkey Trail, Lorence Trail, and Monsell Trail, for a beautiful traverse of the Appalachian Range. Following the loop in either direction, the trails feature rocky pathways and switchbacks, eventually leading to the Stone Valley Vista atop Stone Mountain, and a breathtaking view of Stone Valley's rolling hills and farmlands. Bring your trekking poles! Photo credit: Standing Stone Trail Assoc. Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: Standing Stone Trail Club For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: Standing Stone Trail Club 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 Monsell Trail Parking, Belleville, PA, USA Googlemap

Together, we've stressed less, and discovered more! View the Centred Outdoors Season 6 photo album below! centred outdoors photo album

Travel from Alan Seeger to Greenwood Furnace Fire Tower on this section of the Standing Stone Trail. Greenwood Spur Alan Seeger Natural Area, Huntingdon, PA, USA Travel from Alan Seeger to Greenwood Furnace Fire Tower on this section of the Standing Stone Trail. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination High above the old-growth trees of Alan Seeger Natural Area, on top of Broad Mountain, stands the Greenwood Fire Tower. At 2,376 ft, this point marks the highest spot along the Standing Stone Trail. This section is known as the Greenwood Spur, marking the most northern portion of the SST. The hike from Alan Seeger to the top of Broad Mountain is short, but very steep, so be ready for a climb! 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 Alan Seeger Natural Area, Huntingdon, PA, USA Googlemap

Thompson Woods is a 43-acre parcel of forested land that was preserved by ClearWater Conservancy in 2000. Thompson Woods Thompson Woods Preserve, Walnut Spring Lane, State College, PA, USA Thompson Woods is a 43-acre parcel of forested land that was preserved by ClearWater Conservancy in 2000. For information about guided outings at this or other locations, visit our Events . About This Destination Thompson Woods is a 43-acre parcel of forested land that was preserved by ClearWater Conservancy in 2000. Covering parts of State College Borough and College Township, the property is used for passive recreation, and its paths provide a convenient route for walkers between PSU Campus and residential areas. Improvements being planned for the area include new signage, trail maintenance, and forest management. IMPORTANT TRAVEL NOTE: Event traffic for the Ironman competition on Sunday, June 30 will impact travel to Thompson Woods. Please give yourself extra time to reach our event. You must approach Walnut Spring Lane from Easterly Parkway. University Drive is a section of the race course and will remain closed during our events. Traffic crossing University Drive at Easterly Parkway will be controlled to allow race competitors to pass. See Suggested Route See Ironman Road Closures Plan Your Visit This Destination is managed by: College Township For more information about visiting this Destination, visit: College 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 Thompson Woods Preserve, Walnut Spring Lane, State College, PA, USA Googlemap