
If you’re looking for information about hiking to David’s Vista near State College, you’re in the right place!

David’s Vista is a spectacular southwest-facing scenic overlook in the Huntingdon County portion of the Rothrock State Forest.

David’s Vista is easily accessed via a relatively-flat, 0.7 mile hike along the Jackson Trail.

And since the trailhead parking is located right along Route 26, adjacent to Jo Hays Vista, you can access the Jackson Trail and David’s Vista any time of year, even in the dead of winter when other trailheads and vistas are tough to reach because of snow and ice.

Directions to the Trailhead
As mentioned above, you’ll find the Jo Hays Vista parking area located on the west side of Route 26, at the very top of Pine Grove Mountain, roughly 7 miles south of downtown State College.
Look for the large pull-off/parking area pictured below.

The overlook at the parking area is named in honor of a former State Senator.

At the northeastern edge of the parking area/overlook you’ll find a bench and some informational signage pertaining to the Rothrock State Forest.

The view from Jo Hays Vista is of State College and the ridges beyond.

Hiking to David’s Vista
The hike to David’s Vista starts on the other side of Route 26, opposite the parking area.

Walk around the black-and-yellow gate pictured above, and proceed along the gravel road, where you’ll see the Jackson Trail marker just a few yards ahead.

Continue on the gravel road for 300 yards, passing several communications towers along the way.

After you’ve passed the final communications tower, the trail changes from gravel road to a rocky footpath, which is how it will remain until you reach David’s Vista.

There is very little elevation change to this hike (less than 60 feet), but some folks might find the rockiness of the trail challenging, so consider yourself forewarned.

The trail is yellow-blazed and well-worn, so getting lost on this hike is highly unlikely.

There are a few partial views along the way, though nothing nearly as impressive as David’s Vista itself.

After hiking 0.7 miles, you’ll reach David’s Vista on the edge of a grove of pines, at GPS coordinates 40.72172, -77.88182.

Exploring David’s Vista
David’s Vista offers breathtaking views of the Rothrock State Forests’ rolling ridges and dense forests, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers.

The scenery transforms with each season, from vibrant greens in the summer to fiery foliage in the fall, but the winter truly stands out with its frosted trees and snow-blanketed landscape.

The rocky outcrop at the vista provides an expansive panorama that captures the peaceful beauty of the forest.

Even though David’s Vista is relatively close to “civilization”, it still feels remote and wild, especially in the winter.

It truly is one of the natural gems of the Rothrock State Forest, and it’s a hike I recommend to anyone looking for a relatively easy scenic overlook hike near State College.

When you’ve had your fill of David’s Vista, simply retrace your steps back to the parking area along Route 26.

Nearby Attractions
The 5 Best Scenic Overlooks Near State College is your guide to several other nearby scenic overlooks.

The 6 Best State Parks Near State College is your guide to more awesome outdoor adventures in Happy Valley.

33 Must-See Attractions in Centre County is an interactive guide to more local hotspots, both natural and manmade.

24 Must-See Attractions in Huntingdon County highlights the best things to see and do in the region immediately south of David’s Vista.

Find even more great spots to explore all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!
Did you enjoy this article?
If so, be sure to like and follow PA Bucket List on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Pinterest to learn more about the best things to see and do in Pennsylvania!
Click on any of the icons below to get connected to PA Bucket List on social media.
