Nestled in the heart of central Pennsylvania, Brush Mountain rises 700 m (2,300 ft) above sea level and offers one of the most spectacular yet underrated outdoor experiences in the state. Did you know that this mountain ridge is part of the ancient Appalachian chain that formed over 250 million years ago? Today, it serves as a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts with over 300 miles of hiking and biking trails within the surrounding Rothrock State Forest.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Brush Mountain is conveniently located near State College in Centre County, Pennsylvania. The mountain is easily accessible by car, making it a perfect destination for both weekend getaways and longer vacations.
Closest Airports
- University Park Airport (SCE) – 25 km (15.5 miles) from Brush Mountain
- Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) – 145 km (90 miles)
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) – 210 km (130 miles)
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Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Brush Mountain experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a unique experience for visitors. Understanding the seasonal patterns will help you plan the perfect trip based on your preferred activities.
| Season | Temperature | Conditions | Recommended Activities |
| Spring (April-May) | 7-18°C (45-65°F) | Mild, occasional rain | Hiking, wildflower viewing, fishing |
| Summer (June-August) | 18-29°C (65-85°F) | Warm, humid | Mountain biking, swimming, camping |
| Fall (September-October) | 7-21°C (45-70°F) | Cool, dry | Fall foliage viewing, hiking, photography |
| Winter (November-March) | -7-4°C (20-40°F) | Cold, snow possible | Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing |
Recommended Months to Visit
The best time to visit Brush Mountain is during late spring (May) and early fall (September-October). These periods offer comfortable temperatures, less precipitation, and either beautiful wildflowers or spectacular fall foliage.
Months to Avoid
July and August can be uncomfortably humid with temperatures sometimes exceeding 32°C (90°F). December through February often brings snow and ice, making some trails inaccessible without proper winter gear.
Getting Around Locally
Navigating the Brush Mountain area requires some planning, as public transportation options are limited. Here are your best options for exploring the region:
By Car
Having your own vehicle is the most convenient way to explore Brush Mountain and the surrounding attractions. Many trailheads and viewpoints are accessible only by car.
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Local Transportation
- CATA Bus Service – Operates in State College and surrounding areas
- Taxi Services – Available in State College
- Rideshare – Uber and Lyft operate in the region but may have limited availability
Where to Stay
Brush Mountain and its surrounding areas offer a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. From rustic cabins to comfortable lodges, you’ll find the perfect place to rest after a day of exploration.
Brush Mountain Lodge
Located directly on Brush Mountain, this beautiful lodge offers spectacular views, comfortable rooms, and easy access to hiking trails. Perfect for families and groups seeking a true mountain experience.
Price range: $$$
State College Hotels
Just 20 minutes from Brush Mountain, State College offers numerous hotel options with modern amenities. Ideal for those who want to combine outdoor adventures with urban conveniences.
Price range: $$-$$$
Rothrock State Forest Camping
For the adventurous traveler, camping in Rothrock State Forest provides an immersive natural experience. Several designated campgrounds offer basic facilities.
Price range: $
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Dining & Local Cuisine
The Brush Mountain area offers a surprising variety of dining options, from farm-to-table restaurants to casual eateries serving hearty Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. Many establishments source ingredients locally, providing authentic flavors of central Pennsylvania.
Local Specialties to Try
- Scrapple – A traditional Pennsylvania Dutch breakfast meat
- Shoofly Pie – A molasses-based dessert popular in the region
- Apple Butter – A concentrated apple spread often served with bread
- Craft Beers – The area has several microbreweries producing excellent local beers
Recommended Restaurants
Elk Creek Cafe + Ale Works
Located in nearby Millheim, this establishment offers farm-to-table cuisine and craft beers in a cozy atmosphere. Their menu changes seasonally to showcase local ingredients.
Revival Kitchen
In Reedsville, this restaurant specializes in locally sourced ingredients prepared with creative flair. Their tasting menu is a culinary journey through central Pennsylvania.
Big Springs Spirits
This Bellefonte distillery also serves excellent food paired with their house-made spirits. The outdoor seating area is perfect for summer evenings.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Brush Mountain offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors of all interests. From natural wonders to historical sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this scenic part of Pennsylvania.
Indian Lookout
One of the most spectacular scenic overlooks in central Pennsylvania, Indian Lookout offers panoramic views of Spruce Creek, Canoe Mountain, and Bald Eagle Mountain. The moderate hike to reach it is well worth the effort.
Alan Seeger Natural Area
This old-growth forest preserve features towering hemlocks and white pines, some over 300 years old. The 1.6 km (1-mile) loop trail takes you through this pristine ecosystem.
Greenwood Furnace State Park
Just 20 minutes from Brush Mountain, this historic park preserves an iron-making community from the 19th century. Explore the historic buildings and enjoy the 6-acre Greenwood Lake.
Discover Local Tours & Activities
Make the most of your visit with guided experiences and local activities!
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While Brush Mountain itself is primarily a natural destination, the surrounding area is rich in cultural attractions and events that showcase the region’s heritage and artistic spirit.
Museums & Cultural Attractions
- The Isett Heritage Museum – Located in Huntingdon, this museum houses over 40,000 items from everyday life in the 19th and 20th centuries
- Swigart Auto Museum – The oldest automobile museum in the United States, featuring a remarkable collection of vintage cars
- Green Drake Gallery & Arts Center – In Millheim, this gallery showcases works by local artists
Annual Festivals & Events
| Festival | Month | Location | Description |
| Central PA Festival of the Arts | July | State College | One of Pennsylvania’s premier art festivals featuring hundreds of artists, performances, and food vendors |
| People’s Choice Festival | July | Boalsburg | Showcases Pennsylvania artists and craftspeople with live music and local food |
| Grange Fair | August | Centre Hall | A unique 9-day encampment fair with agricultural exhibits, entertainment, and food |
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Brush Mountain and the surrounding Rothrock State Forest offer some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities in Pennsylvania. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or peaceful nature experiences, you’ll find plenty of options here.
Mountain Biking
Rothrock State Forest is a mountain biking paradise with trails for all skill levels. The area hosts two IMBA Epic-rated trails, making it a destination for serious mountain bikers from across the country.
Hiking
With over 300 miles of trails, hikers can explore everything from easy nature walks to challenging ridge climbs. The Standing Stone Trail offers particularly scenic sections near Brush Mountain.
Fishing
The streams around Brush Mountain offer excellent trout fishing. Penns Creek is world-renowned for its fly fishing, particularly during the famous green drake mayfly hatch in late May and early June.
Water Activities
While Brush Mountain itself doesn’t have large bodies of water, nearby options include:
- Whipple Dam State Park – A 22-acre lake perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking
- Raystown Lake – Pennsylvania’s largest lake entirely within its borders, offering boating, fishing, and swimming
- Penns Creek – Excellent for kayaking and canoeing with beautiful scenery
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Ensuring a safe and respectful visit to Brush Mountain requires understanding both safety precautions and local etiquette. Here are some important guidelines to follow during your stay:
Safety Tips
- Wildlife Awareness – Black bears inhabit the forests. Store food properly and maintain a safe distance if encountered
- Weather Preparedness – Mountain weather can change rapidly. Check forecasts and pack appropriate gear
- Trail Safety – Stay on marked trails, carry a map, and let someone know your hiking plans
- Tick Prevention – Use insect repellent and check for ticks after outdoor activities
Local Etiquette
- Leave No Trace – Pack out all trash and leave natural areas as you found them
- Respect Private Property – Many lands adjacent to public forests are privately owned
- Hunting Seasons – Be aware of hunting seasons and wear bright colors during these times
- Trail Etiquette – Yield to uphill hikers and horses on multi-use trails
Visitor Comments About Brush Mountain
“The mountain biking trails around Brush Mountain exceeded all my expectations! The Rothrock State Forest trails offer technical challenges with incredible rewards – those ridge-top views are absolutely worth the climb. Don’t miss the sunset from Indian Lookout, it’s spectacular.”
“We spent a week exploring Brush Mountain and the surrounding areas. The hiking trails were well-maintained and the old-growth forests were magical. The local restaurants in Millheim were a pleasant surprise – farm-to-table dining in such a rural setting! Will definitely return.”
“As an avid fly fisherman, I found paradise in the streams around Brush Mountain. Penns Creek lived up to its reputation for world-class fishing. The locals were friendly and happy to share tips on the best fishing spots. The Brush Mountain Lodge made for a comfortable home base.”
Practical Travel Tips
Make the most of your Brush Mountain adventure with these practical tips that will help you navigate the region like a local:
Planning & Packing
- Cell Service – Coverage can be spotty in remote areas. Download maps offline before your trip
- Layered Clothing – Mountain temperatures can vary significantly between day and night
- Water – Bring plenty of water for hikes, as natural water sources may require treatment
- Maps – Purchase a Purple Lizard Map of Rothrock State Forest for detailed trail information
Local Resources
- Visitor Centers – The Rothrock State Forest office provides maps and current trail conditions
- Outfitters – Local shops like Appalachian Outdoors in State College offer gear and advice
- Guided Experiences – Consider hiring local guides for activities like fly fishing or mountain biking
- Emergency Services – Save local emergency numbers and know the nearest medical facilities
Your Mountain Adventure Awaits
Brush Mountain may not be Pennsylvania’s most famous destination, but it offers authentic outdoor experiences that rival those of more celebrated locations. From challenging mountain bike trails to peaceful old-growth forests, from farm-to-table dining to cozy accommodations, this hidden gem in central Pennsylvania provides all the ingredients for a memorable adventure. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or tranquil natural beauty, Brush Mountain welcomes you with open arms and endless possibilities. Pack your hiking boots, bring your sense of adventure, and discover why this special place captures the hearts of all who visit.
The above is subject to change.
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