State Game Lands 176 behind the American Alehouse

NOTE: State regs require anyone on state game lands from Nov. 15 through Dec. 15 to wear fluorescent orange.

Join us for this coming Saturday afternoon for an approximately three-mile, hike/stroll/walk/jaunt around the perimeter of State Game Lands #176, right on the edge of State College. This area is jointly managed by Penn State and the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

The gently rolling landscape here is conveniently located next to the Toftrees resort, behind the American Ale House, off Cricklewood Drive. It is an attractive area of urban-edge open space, of mixed woodlands and irrigated crops (winter wheat, corn, and other row crops), popular with walkers, joggers, dog walkers, mountain bikers, and hunters (in season).

It is also a wildlife haven. In addition to a plethora of songbirds (in season), woodpeckers, hawks, turkey, and ring-necked pheasant, I have seen deer, red foxes, and even a coyote. Squirrels and rabbits abound. The occasional black bear wanders through. This is the heart of Happy Valley. Visible in the distance are Mount Nittany and Tussey Mountain; Bald Eagle Mountain is much closer.

Most of the route is on unpaved roads (gravel, cinder, dirt) so no boots are necessary. (The roads are closed to public motorized traffic; open to staff only.) There is very little elevation gain.

We will meet at 1 p.m. at the main gate into the Game Lands, located on Cricklewood Drive. There is a small gravel parking lot at the gate, and ample parking along Cricklewood in the vicinity of the American Ale House (821 Cricklewood, State College, 16803). Afterwards, those who are so inclined or inspired can indulge in a pint or two at the ale house.