Hiking in a forest alone never crossed my mind as something I would be doing before 2023. I had barely set foot in a forest. As a former long-distance runner, I thrived on the adrenaline of a long run. Never would I see myself hiking slowly through a forest, having to be aware of such things as snakes and bears. After the passing of my mother in late 2020, I thought I would use running to heal, but I found that I could no longer find the motivation to do so. After many failed attempts to return to running, I began walking instead.
There’s plenty to see and do in and around Happy Valley, and whether you’re a local looking for somewhere special to spend your staycation, or a visitor seeking to make your getaway memorable at every moment (even while sleeping!), exploring the region’s unique lodging opportunities is a must. From peaceful, bucolic settings that set the soul free, to beguiling Victorian bed and breakfasts and chic modern digs, Happy Valley has it all!
If you love the thrill and challenge of mountain biking, you know that when bikers discuss the best places to test their skills, the mountain ridges that surround Happy Valley are often mentioned. This area has become a premier East Coast destination for mountain bikers of all skill levels, who are drawn to the hundreds of miles of trails (290 miles in Rothrock State Forest alone) it has to offer.