“There's nothing finer than quenching your thirst after a bike ride in Centre County, Pennsylvania,” Nathan Reigner said. He should know. Before Reigner took the reins as Pennsylvania’s first-ever director of outdoor recreation for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, he was an assistant research professor in the College of Human Development at Penn State. And he really, really likes being outside in Happy Valley.

The town of Bellefonte is a top destination to sip, stay, and play in Pennsylvania. Located in the scenic Pennsylvania Wilds region, just a short drive from State College and the main campus of Penn State, this historic town (established in 1795) has a long and proud history of hosting guests and boasts a charming Victorian-era historic district, museums, art galleries, dining options, and easy access to outdoor recreation in the mountains and valleys around the town. Every year, more people discover just how much there is to do in Bellefonte and promise to return for more great experiences. Just consider the options for things to do in the great outdoors around Bellefonte.

With 750,000 acres of public land in Happy Valley there is no shortage of opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. From hiking to biking to relaxing in a park, there’s something that fits your adventure level here.

Join us on June 1st for the Grit Gravel Grinder! Choose from three exhilarating courses - the GRIT 25-miler, the GRITTIER 49-miler, or the GRITTIEST 65-miler. After the race, don't miss our NEW After Party and Awards Celebration at Boal City Brewing. Enjoy Rothrock Coffee at registration, refuel at support stations, and shop for gear from Seasons of Rothrock. The celebration continues with prizes, food trucks, and live music at the Rothrock GRIT Podium Party. Plus, get FREE 8-week training plans from US Champ Jeremiah Bishop. Race with us and support local cycling and community service organizations. Sign up now for an unforgettable experience!

Experience a transformative journey at Wildfire Ranch Spiritual Retreat in Spring Mills, PA! Nestled in the heart of Happy Valley, Pennsylvania, this serene haven offers more than just a getaway—it's a spiritual sanctuary.

Explore the Happy Valley, Pennsylvania GeoTour (GT4E2)! Get ready for an unforgettable geocaching adventure in one of Pennsylvania's most charming regions.

Rhoneymeade Arboretum & Sculpture Garden has announced the preliminary program for celebrating Arbor Day in Centre County. This 2 day event starts with a Professional day on Friday, April 26th 2024- Arbor Day - and a Public day on Saturday, April 27th 2024.

The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau (HVAB) and the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County (CBICC) announced a new initiative to support local farmers and agritourism destinations with the launch of the Fresh from the Field digital passport trail.

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.