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The Hike...

A Little Introduction...
Mt. Nittany is more than a local landscape or symbol, it is a place of bustling activity. It has been called the "classic hike for local residents, tourists and returning alumni," providing exceptional views of the campus and the community from several natural overlooks. The popular Mike Lynch Overlook features a birds-eye view of the campus, including Beaver Stadium and the Bryce Jordan Center.

Use the above map showing the blazed Blue and White Trails maintained by the Conservancy and Lion's Paw. The hikes are healthy challenges; the trails' beautiful, diverse assortment of trees, flowers and ground cover are inspiring, and, in some cases, even tasty, e.g., blueberries.

Up and down, the trails are rocky and steep. Those on top are relatively flat. Following the primary trails is simply a big loop. Take a right at the top and follow the perimeter trail around the whole mountain and enjoy several overlooks - town and campus to the west; south to Boalsburg, the ski slopes of Tussey Mountain, and across Penns Valley.

A secret valley on top is a nature preserve. Deer crisscross. There's a special quiet wilderness. Soon you reach northern views overlooking Nittany Mall and Rockview Correctional Institute and the rooftops of Bellefonte. This trail leads to the western edge of State College.



Details:
Highlights:
 A vigorous hike to a great overlook of the PSU campus and Beaver Stadium
Near:  Lemont, PA / State College, PA
Distance: 4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1800 ft
Hike Time: 3 hours total
Difficulty: Intermediate - Strenuous
Trail Condition: Well maintained trail
Hike Type: Out and Back


Summary:
This is a great hike, particularly if you are a Penn State fan. Go on a clear day to see an awesome view of Beaver Stadium. It is a very strenuous hike to the top but a nice walk around once you are there. In college some people used to take kegs up to the top, now that is some dedication!


Elevation / Altitude gains of Hike


Topographical Map of Mt. Nittany & Hiking Trail(s)


Trail Head :
From State College PA take S Atherton Rd (Business Rt 322E) to Branch Rd (at traffic light look for Lemont sign), left onto Branch Rd 2 miles to traffic light. Continue straight 2 blocks to Mt. Nittany Rd, take a right and go up hill 1 mile to trail head. A short distance up the trail you will see a box with trail maps. (Lat:40.8114 Lon:-77.807)


Seasons:
Year-Round (spring and fall are best for wildlife viewing)


User Groups:
Hikers, College Students, Outing Clubs, Backpackers and Nature Enthusiasts of all ages!

Safety notes:

  • The advice to "Wear Orange" or other bright colors is appropriate for everyday hiking on the mountain.
  • Hunting is permitted on lands owned by the Conservancy and Lion's Paw. In addition, a former landowner has retained exclusive hunting rights for a parcel of Conservancy lands which he posts each year. Please respect his legal rights and stay off this parcel between the dates of his posting.
  • It is unlawful to hunt on Sundays except for crows, fox and coyote as provided by federal and state regulations. See the PA Game Commission site for Hunting Season dates.
  • Fires are not permitted on lands owned by the Conservancy and Lion's Paw.

Review: (HikePA.com)
Mt. Nittany is the first hike many people take in Centre County, PA. Its fame comes from the legend of Princess Nittany, and it is a landmark for the Pennsylvania State University, whose mascot, the Nittany Lion, is named for. Hiking Mt. Nittany is easy, compared to most of the other hikes in Centre County. Getting there: Find your way to Lemont, PA, near State College (off of route 26). Once in Lemont, you'll find your way around easily, since there are only a few streets in this quiet town. Find Mt. Nittany Road off of Pike Street (the main street in Lemont) and take it all the way to the end. You can park there and follow the white blazes.


Suggested Equipment:
Always take the following items along with you when hiking...

Extra food and water - Take more food and water than you think you will need, particularly water.

Extra Clothing - A warm morning can quickly turn into a wet cold afternoon. Take an extra shirt and some rain gear.

Maps - This should be a detailed map of the general area you are hiking that shows the specific trail you intent to hike. We recommend taking a topo map with latitude and longitude coordinates on the map. You can print the topo maps on this site to take with you, although the may come out a bit small. You can also use a topo map to orient yourself to major landscape features, helping to find your current location.

Compass - When you reach the trailhead, note on the map the general direction of the trail, then use your compass periodically to make sure you are still heading the right direction. If you get lost, you can also use the compass to find you position on the map by taking bearings.

First Aid Kit - This is a must take item. May outdoor stores sell well stocked, compact first aide kits for hikers. For those new to hiking, make sure the kit contains moleskin, and indispensable solution for blisters on the trail. Learn more about Wilderness First Aid!

Sun Protection - Don't forget a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses

Camera - Bonus item... There are sure to be plenty of great views as well as wildlife and more!


Wilderness Medicine

If you are interested in learning about wilderness first aid & safety, Click Here for more information.

Did you know that there is a complete course just on Wilderness First Aid? There is! Topics of this course include an in-depth look at patient assessment, body systems, trauma response, equipment improvisation, environmental medicine, toxins, backcountry medicine, and wilderness rescue. Lecture and discussion are combined with practical exercises and outdoor scenarios to help students gain confidence and encourage the development of critical decision making skills. Courses offered in State College, PA.

Notice: Traveling in the back country can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site may contain errors or omissions. Please use common sense when hiking, and follow all rules & regulations as well as Leave No Trace principles when recreating in the out of doors. The Mount Nittany Conservancy takes NO responsibility for any injuries, accidents, mishaps, etc. that might take place on the grounds of the Conservancy.


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