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Jackson Trail
4.5 ★★★★★ 31 Google reviews · Running trail in State College, Pennsylvania · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Jackson Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Jackson Trail
“There are a few scenic spots which would be great viewpoints during fall.”
Definitely one of the best hikes around State College. It’s around 5 mile (total) trek and can be completed in 3.5 hours due to the rocky terrain. There are a few scenic spots which would be great viewpoints during fall.
Nice trail that gets to a vista about a mile in, but like many PA ridges IT IS ANKLE TWISTING ROCKY Two poles, or none like some amazing people seem to be able to do.
This trail offers a terrific view of the surrounding areas. Great place to get away from it all.
Almost flat, but the trail is very Rocky. Need to pay much attention after rainy day.
Trail conditions & character
“There are a few scenic spots which would be great viewpoints during fall.”
“Nice trail that gets to a vista about a mile in, but like many PA ridges IT IS ANKLE TWISTING ROCKY Two poles, or none like some amazing people seem to be able to do.”
Plan your run at Jackson Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
Running trails near State College
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Autumnwood Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 78 reviews
Tranquil recreational area featuring a storybook trail and athletic fields for sports like soccer.
Orchard Park
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Park with playgrounds, a picnic area & an amphitheater, plus softball, tennis & other sport courts.
Shingletown Gap
4.7 ★★★★★ 189 reviews
Kid-friendly hiking area featuring a variety of easy and moderate trails.
Tom Tudek Memorial Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 763 reviews
Local park with a playground, basketball & tennis courts, a walking path & a dog-friendly area.