Day Trips from State College
← All State College day tripsDay Trips from State College: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of State College, PA. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near State College
Worlds End State Park
Forksville, PA 18616
Just 1 hr 49 min from State College, rated 4.9 stars by 1,619 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
The Pinnacle Overlook
Holtwood, PA 17532
Just 2 hrs 40 min from State College, rated 4.9 stars by 1,147 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
Kempton, PA 19529
Just 2 hrs 27 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 1,958 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
McConnells Mill State Park
Portersville, PA 16051
Just 2 hrs 43 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 3,338 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bear Run Nature Reserve
Mill Run, PA 15464
Just 2 hrs 28 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 1,329 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Coopers Rock State Forest
Bruceton Mills, WV 26525
Just 2 hrs 42 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 3,331 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ohiopyle State Park
Ohiopyle, PA 15470
Just 2 hrs 26 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 9,434 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ricketts Glen State Park
Benton, PA 17814
Just 1 hr 50 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 5,699 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lehigh Gorge State Park - Rockport Access
Weatherly, PA 18255
Just 2 hrs 9 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 2,524 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Susquehannock State Park
Drumore, PA 17518
Just 2 hrs 41 min from State College, rated 4.8 stars by 797 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Just 1 hr 28 min from State College, rated 4.7 stars by 604 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Buttermilk Falls
New Florence, PA 15944
Just 1 hr 31 min from State College, rated 4.7 stars by 827 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from State College
What are the best hiking trails near State College, PA?
The best hikes near State College range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near State College?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near State College offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from State College?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near State College are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near State College?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near State College. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
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