The best running trails around State College

The Blue Course Bikeway loop offers a diverse jogging experience in State College, taking you through a pleasant mix of paved paths and crushed stone sections. You'll enjoy scenic views as the route meanders around the Penn State University golf course, with glimpses of farms, wooded areas, and residential neighborhoods. It's a great option for a varied workout, combining flat stretches with rolling hills and some noticeable inclines.

This multi-use trail is welcoming to joggers, bikers, and hikers, and it's also dog-friendly, making it a versatile choice for many. Its connectivity means you can easily extend your run by linking up with other local paths like the Circleville Bike Path or the Bellefonte Central Rail Trail. The trail is generally less crowded, offering a more peaceful outing.

This moderate 6.8-mile (10.9 km) jogging route features 322 feet (98 metres) of elevation gain and can be completed in about 1 hour and 8 minutes. It's a key part of State College's developing off-road path network, effectively connecting the main Penn State University campus with the west side of downtown, providing a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the area.

The Big Boi Singletrack Segment loop offers a delightful escape into nature for joggers near State College, Pennsylvania. This route guides you through the varied forest environment of the Patton Woods Nature Recreation Area, where mature hardwood trees create a shaded canopy and a multi-tiered understory adds to the scenic beauty. You might even spot vernal pools, enhancing the diverse natural habitats along the generally gentle terrain.

This popular jogging route is easily accessed from Park Forest Village, making it a convenient option for anyone in the State College area. It's a well-loved local trail, known for its well-maintained paths and the engaging experience it provides. Plan to spend around 1 hour and 19 minutes on this moderate 7.8-mile (12.5 km) loop, which features a manageable 391 feet (119 metres) of elevation gain.

Considered a top favorite among the local running community, the Big Boi Singletrack Segment is a testament to the quality of jogging routes State College PA has to offer. Its location within Patton Woods also provides connections to larger preserves like Gray's Woods, opening up possibilities for extended exploration if you're looking to add more miles to your run.

The Hort Woods – The Arboretum at Penn State loop offers a fascinating blend of manicured gardens and wild forest trails, making it one of the more popular routes for jogging near State College. You'll start with the gentle, flat surfaces of the Arboretum, passing through botanical displays like the H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens, before transitioning to the more rugged, unmaintained paths of Hort Woods. This moderate 6.3-mile (10.1 km) loop, with its 239 feet (73 metres) of elevation gain, provides a diverse experience that takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete, offering both easy stretches and challenging uphill sections.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the Arboretum's main paths are straightforward, the Hort Woods section can be complex. Maps are usually available at the Arboretum entrance to help you navigate the forest trails. Spring is an ideal time to visit, as the old-growth forest in Hort Woods comes alive with native wildflowers. Parking is typically available at the Arboretum, but it's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on pleasant days.

What makes this route particularly special is the contrast between the cultivated beauty of the Arboretum and the ancient, preserved ecosystem of Hort Woods. This old-growth forest is a rare find, with some trees dating back 150 to 300 years, offering a glimpse into Pennsylvania's natural history. The Bellefonte Central Rail Trail section also provides scenic views as it cuts through the "Big Hollow," adding another layer of visual interest to your jog.

If you're looking for a diverse jogging experience in State College, the Blue Course Bikeway loop delivers. This route offers a pleasant journey through varied landscapes, from the manicured greens of the Penn State University golf course to quiet wooded areas and residential streets. You'll encounter a mix of paved and crushed gravel surfaces underfoot, keeping your run interesting and engaging.

This moderate 6.6-mile (10.7 km) loop features 293 feet (89 metres) of elevation gain, which you can typically complete in about 1 hour and 7 minutes. The rolling hills, including a notable 4.3% grade on the Circleville Bike Path, provide a good workout without being overly strenuous. Remember to exercise caution when crossing Blue Course Drive, as vehicle speeds can be high.

The Blue Course Bikeway is a key part of State College's expanding off-road trail network, connecting the Penn State University main campus to the west side of downtown. Its connectivity means you can easily extend your run onto other paths like the Deerfield Bike Path Loop for a longer challenge. Dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a run with your canine companion.

The Centre Furnace loop from State College offers a refreshing 5.4-mile (8.7 km) jogging experience, perfect for a quick workout with minimal elevation. With only 246 feet (75 metres) of gain, this moderate route can be completed in about 55 minutes, making it an excellent option for a consistent pace. You'll find yourself on informal paths and possibly urban routes, passing by the historic Centre Furnace Mansion and its impressive 1787 sycamore tree, blending exercise with a touch of local history.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Centre Furnace Mansion grounds are publicly accessible, and parking is typically available nearby. This route is a great choice for beginner jogging trails in State College, PA, or for anyone looking for a convenient, circular jogging route. Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures, especially during warmer months.

This trail stands out for its connection to the Centre Furnace site, a significant historical landmark tied to Penn State University's origins. It provides a unique blend of natural and historical features, offering a glimpse into the area's past while you get your miles in. It's a less strenuous alternative to the more rugged trails further afield, providing a pleasant and accessible option for jogging near State College, PA.