-title photo by Anna Cook

You know those places you find yourself returning to again and again? The ones that somehow feel both familiar and full of surprises each time? For me, that’s Happy Valley. I’ve been lucky enough to experience it in every season, and no matter when I visit, there’s always something new to explore, from hiking trails that change with the colors of the year to the energy of a local festival in State Collegeor the slopes of Tussey Mountain. It’s a place that invites you back, not just to see more, but to experience it differently each time. Recharge in every season, in Happy Valley, Pennsylvania.

Experience the Spring Wildflowers 

Spring is one of the best times to stretch your legs and watch Happy Valley come back to life. Wildflowers line the trails, and fresh green leaves start to fill out the forest canopy. For the largest variety of blooms, start at The Arboretum at Penn State, home to 10 acres of botanic gardens and another 14 acres of scenic walking paths. If you prefer an easy walk, Soaring Eagle Wetlands and Talleyrand Park both offer flat paths and peaceful views. Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, birds, and the occasional deer at Soaring Eagle. At Talleyrand Park, graceful willow trees drape over Spring Creek, where you’ll often spot waterfowl gliding by or anglers casting a line. Those craving a bit more adventure can venture to Yost Run Falls, Centre County’s only waterfall. After a day outdoors, unwind on the Central PA Tasting Trail. Big Spring Spirits offers flower-filled views from its back patio, while Boal City Brewing and Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery also have large outdoor spaces to enjoy the sunshine.

Enjoy Summer Festivals & Outings

Summer in Happy Valley buzzes with energy, from lively festivals to laid-back evenings outdoors. Signature events like Outdoor Adventure on Tap, WingFest at Tussey Mountain, and art celebrations such as the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts and People’s Choice Festival of Pennsylvania Arts & Crafts showcase the region’s creative and community spirit. Attending one of these festivals is the perfect way to experience the friendly, small-town atmosphere that makes this area so special. For a slower pace, spend a morning wandering through a local farmers' market and chatting with growers about their fresh produce and baked goods. Centre County’s deep agricultural roots shine through here. If your visit doesn’t align with market day, stop by one of the local dairies for a scoop of homemade ice cream instead. It’s really a summer must. When the temperatures rise, cool off underground at one of the region’s three show caves: Penn’s Cave, Woodward Cave, or Lincoln Caverns, each offering its own fascinating formations and stories.

Admire the Fall Foliage 

Fall is one of the most breathtaking times to visit Happy Valley. Central Pennsylvania boasts one of the longest leaf-peeping seasons on the East Coast, giving you plenty of time to soak in the color. Some of the best places to admire the changing leaves include Black Moshannon State Park, Rothrock State Forest, and Mount Nittany. At Black Moshannon, favorite trails like the Bog Trail, Shingle Mill, and Star Mill Trails offer a variety of views and foliage. Just outside the park, the Allegheny Front Trail leads to Ralph’s Majestic View, where you’ll find a nice overlook to enjoy the colors. Remember to wear bright colors—orange is best—as sections of the trail pass through public game lands. For a different perspective, explore Rothrock State Forest by e-bike, which is available for rent at Tussey Mountain. Prefer to hike? The Shingletown Gap area and the Little Flat Fire Tower are perfect fall hikes. And of course, no autumn visit is complete without hiking the Mount Nittany Loop, one of Happy Valley’s most iconic trails with views stretching out over State College.

Adventure in the Snow 

While winter is typically considered the off-season, it’s one of my favorite times to visit Happy Valley. The pace slows, the crowds thin, and the landscape takes on a quiet beauty that makes it easy to recharge. Tussey Mountain is a local favorite for winter fun, offering skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. It’s the perfect place for beginners to learn or anyone looking to brush up on their skills. If you prefer a slower adventure, bundle up for a winter hike. Trails in Rothrock State Forest are especially peaceful this time of year. On my last visit, I took a snowy walk through Musser Gap, where it felt like I stepped straight into a fairytale with the flowing streams and snow-dusted trees. When you’re ready to warm up, settle into one of the area’s bed & breakfasts and savor field-to-fork meals at places like RE Farm Café or Pine Grove Hall. For an active indoor option, Climb Nittany offers bouldering walls and 40-foot top-rope routes, ideal for staying energized no matter the weather.

Find your happy place in Happy Valley, Pennsylvania!