Discover the Natural Wonders of Rothrock State Forest
Explore Rothrock State Forest, a breathtaking state park in Pennsylvania, perfect for hiking, biking, and immersing yourself in nature's tranquility.
Rothrock State Forest is a breathtaking paradise for nature lovers, offering scenic vistas, diverse wildlife, and numerous recreational activities. From hiking to biking, this stunning location is perfect for tourists seeking adventure and tranquility in the heart of Pennsylvania.
A brief summary to Rothrock State Forest
- State College, Pennsylvania, 16801, US
- +1814-643-2340
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the fall for stunning foliage and cooler hiking temperatures.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited within the forest.
- Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds.
- Check trail maps in advance to plan your hike according to your skill level.
- Wildlife is abundant; keep your camera ready for unexpected sightings!
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Rothrock State Forest, start by navigating to State College, PA. From there, take US-322 E towards Harrisburg. Continue on US-322 E and take the exit for PA-45 E toward Lewisburg. After approximately 5 miles, turn left onto PA-45 E. Follow PA-45 E until you reach the junction with PA-144 N. Turn right onto PA-144 N. Continue for about 10 miles until you reach the Rothrock State Forest entrance. Make sure to have a GPS or a map app handy for real-time navigation.
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Public Transportation
To reach Rothrock State Forest by public transport, take a Greyhound or Megabus from various cities to State College, PA. Once you arrive at the State College bus terminal, you can use local taxi services or rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft to get to the forest. The distance from the bus terminal to the forest entrance is approximately 15 miles, and rideshare fares can range from $20 to $30 depending on demand.
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Bicycle
For adventurous travelers, biking to Rothrock State Forest is a great option. Starting from State College, you can take the designated bike paths along the streets leading to US-322 E. Ensure to follow bike regulations and wear a helmet. The ride is about 15 miles and will take you through scenic routes. Make sure to check the weather and road conditions before embarking on your bike trip.
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Hiking
If you're already in the vicinity of the Appalachian Mountains, consider hiking to Rothrock State Forest from nearby trails. Use local maps to locate trails that lead towards the forest. Always check trail difficulty and ensure you have proper hiking gear and supplies. It’s advisable to start early in the day, as some trails may take several hours to reach the forest.
Discover more about Rothrock State Forest
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bear Meadows Natural Area
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Little Flat Fire Tower
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Holmes-Foster Park
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Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts
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Sidney Friedman Park
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The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau
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Dalevue Park
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Douglas Albert Gallery
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Old Main Lawn
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Earth and Mineral Sciences Museum and Art Gallery
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Old Main
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Old Botany Building
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The Pennsylvania State University
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Rec Hall
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Shaver's Creek Environmental Center
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lion's Valley Vista
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Whipple Dam State Park
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Alan Seeger Natural Area
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Columbus Chapel & Boal Mansion Museum
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Happy Valley Mini Golf -
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Pennsylvania Military Museum
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Tussey Mountain Ski and Recreation
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Happy Valley Vineyard and Winery
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Lederer Park
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Stone Valley Recreation Area
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Greenwood Furnace State Park
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Sunset Park
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Palmer Museum of Art
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Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania
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Penn-Roosevelt State Park
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Essential places to dine
Hublersburg Inn
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Kitchen Witch
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Brothers Pizza of Howard
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URBN Flavourhaus Lamar
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Dutch Haven Restaurant
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Fort Worth Restaurant
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Dutch Pantry Family Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Uncle Eli's Artist Marketplace and Frame Shop
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The Squirrel & Acorn Bookshop
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The Animal Kingdom
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Lions Pride
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Lion & Cub
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Student Book Store
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The Family Clothesline
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Gallery Shop
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Five Below
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Edible Arrangements
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Gabe's
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Nittany Mall
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The Beaten Path
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Jabebo
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Federal Taphouse
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Red Horse Tavern
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Axemann Brewery
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Big Spring Spirits
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Good Intent Cider LLC
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Omar Bar
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The Republic at the Gamble Mill
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