Centre of Adventure

Sometimes I get in a training rut and hit up the same spot over and over again. I return, week after week, and sometimes day after day, to the same trailhead and embark on a certain loop (Spruce Gap to Old Laurel Trail at Rothrock) that I know is challenging, beautiful, and convenient. This is…

A raven called, as if to greet the group of sixteen eager hikers gathered at the trailhead parking lot across from the Greenwood Furnace State Park office. It had rained earlier in the morning, but clearing skies promised a beautiful day. After brief introductions, hike leader John Collins outlined the morning’s trek, and we were…

Nearly 3,000 athletes are coming from near and far to swim, bike, and run in the Ironman 70.3 Pennsylvania Happy Valley this July 2, and they need a lot of support from volunteers.  After all, they are going to swim 1.2 miles in Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir at Bald Eagle State Park, bike 56 scenic miles through…

At our house, we have this little routine. As soon as the trail shoes come out, our dog, Peggy, knows she is going on an adventure out in the forest. Peggy gets all excited to head to the trail (unless it is raining; then she would rather stay in bed), while our cat, Daniel the…

Sometimes a day hiking trip is just what the doctor ordered, and we in Centre County are lucky to be a short drive from what the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources says is one of the best day hikes in the whole commonwealth, the Golden Eagle Trail.  With the trail’s beautiful views and…

Rothrock State Forest is often said to be right in the Centre Region’s backyard. Indeed, it feels that way, with many trailheads and hiking trails less than 15 miles from the heart of State College. It is one of the reasons I love living here.  Those who know me well won’t be surprised to see…