Our mountain biking scene was featured on the blog Singletracks and it’s got us pinching ourselves. Not only do we have 290 miles of trails that range from challenging technical sections to smooth, flowy paths, thanks to Rothrock State Forest, but we also have an amazing community. Groups like Happy Valley Women’s Cycling, Rothrock Regulators, and the Nittany Mountain Biking Association are super active, offering rides, events, and a supportive atmosphere.

Chumley’s Cocktail Bar is turning 40! Can you believe it? Town & Gown took the occasion to write a terrific article about its past, present and future as State College’s beloved beacon for the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Opened in 1984 by Liz Pierce and Joe Schrantz, Chumley’s stood out from the start with its prime location on College Avenue and welcoming vibe. The article also justly heaps credit for the bar’s longevity onto Manager Ellen Braun (a local treasure). Cheers to 40 more years!

State College Area High School track star Jesse Myers is about to take on the world! This talented local athlete secured his spot at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima, Peru, after an incredible performance in the 200-meter dash at the USATF U20 Championships in Oregon. Myers hit a personal best of 20.86 seconds in the prelims, then clinched his ticket to Peru with a second-place finish in the finals. Representing the Nittany Track and Field Youth Club, the CDT wrote about his story of perseverance, talent, and the thrill of competition.

If you’re new to town or thinking of moving here and want to know more about what Happy Valley has to offer, man, do we have the opportunity for you! The Happy Valley VROOM Tour will take its inaugural trip around the area to show you the places, activities, businesses and organizations that make our town so great. This FREE all-day tour will depart at 8am on Friday, July 26 from downtown State College and take you to Tussey Mountain, the Arboretum, Way Fruit Farm, The Rivet, Talleyrand Park and Nittany Valley Creamery. It’s hosted by our friends at Barash Media, the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County and The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau. RSVP Here!

Some of our favorite locals are starting a wellness retreat, and we love what they created! Hosted by yoga instructor (as well as singer and vintage business owner) Jenn Dashem, “Wellness in the Wild” is from August 16-18 and promises three days and two nights filled with yoga sessions, sound meditations, cacao ceremonies, healthy living workshops, delicious vegan food, live music, and more. Held in Rothrock State Forest, the retreat offers tent and cabin camping and includes all programming and vegan meals by Elaine Meder-Wilgus of Webster’s Bookstore Cafe.