Almost every Penn Stater has at one point hiked Mount Nittany, a local State College landmark. The climb offers a tremendous vista of campus, Beaver Stadium, and the State College area. This is why I am so excited to visit Mt. Nittany for the first time this weekend and see Penn State from a whole new view.
The Mt. Nittany hike consists of two major trails, the 4.6 mile Blue Trail and the 3.5 mile White Trail. While the trails are not very long, the incline is pretty significant, with an elevation change of about 650 feet. The Mt. Nittany Conservancy describes the hike to the top of the mountain as “vigorous,” but well worth the hike. The area at the top of the mountain is relatively flat and is a great location for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the fantastic views.
There is a great diversity of plant life on Mt. Nittany. Chestnut, birch, maple, ash, and sassafras line the mountainside. Foxglove, azaleas, and mountain laurel, the Pennsylvania state flower, can also be seen during the spring season. Blackberries, black raspberries, and teaberry, a local favorite, also attract visitors to the mountain.
Hunting is permitted on Mt. Nittany, so hikers are advised to wear bright orange during hunting season. Wildlife such as deer, bear, turkey and fox can all be spotted on trails. Birdwatching is also popular in the area. Woodpeckers can often be seen during the winter months and spring welcomes the return of migratory birds.
The Mt. Nittany Conservancy has worked hard to protect the wildlife, plants, and soils on Mt. Nittany while maintaining excellent trails for visitors to enjoy. The Conservancy is also a member of the Leave No Trace Organization, a group dedicated to minimal human impact on the environment. Mt. Nittany is a fantastic resource to Penn State students and State College residents alike.
The way you described Mount Nittany makes me want to visit it. The visuals you added to this piece makes me better understand the blog. I never actually knew Mount Nittany could be so beautiful.
I am planning on hiking Mt. Nittany soon before it get too cold and snowy. I enjoy reading about these places to hike because it gives valuable insight into hiking the trails.
I have not hiked Mount Nittany yet but many of my friends have. They all had such a great time and now I am really jealous of them. Next chance I get, I am hiking that mountain. I hope you have a great time and I cannot wait to hear all about it.