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

Hubler Gap Vista is a spectacular south-facing scenic overlook in the Huntingdon County portion of the Rothrock State Forest.

Hubler Gap Vista is most-easily accessed via a 2 mile hike (4 mile round-trip) along the Musser Gap Trail.

And since the trailhead parking is located right off of Route 45, you can access the Musser Gap Trail and Hublers Gap Vista virtually 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 Musser Gap Trail parking area located on the south side of Route 45, roughly 5 miles south of downtown State College.
There is a large gravel parking area, with vault toilets (no running water) at the northern edge of the parking lot.

The trailhead is located at the southern edge of the parking lot, next to a black and yellow gate.

Hiking to Hubler Gap Vista
The hike to Hubler Gap Vista covers 2 miles (each way) along the Musser Gap Trail, and the trail itself has 3 distinct sections.

The first section is essentially a slightly uphill gravel road or cartpath, popular with local dog walkers (it’s local to me, so I’m speaking from experience.)

After hiking 1 mile, the gravel path ends at a T-intersection next to the wooden footbridge pictured below.

At this intersection, you want to stay to the left to remain on the red-blazed Musser Gap Trail- do not cross the bridge!

Here’s where the real hiking begins, as the path transforms into a dirt, singletrack trail.

Follow the trail uphill along the left side of Musser Run for 2/10ths of a mile, and then cross over the small stream at this rudimentary stone bridge.

Continue uphill along the winding dirt path another 4/10th of a mile until you reach a powerline access road, which doubles as the Mountain Mist Trail (popular with mountain bikers.)

Cross the powerline access road and continue along the Musser Gap Trail, where the blazes change from red to yellow.

Follow the rocky, yellow-blazed trail uphill through a series of switchbacks for another 4/10ths of a mile.

When you reach the crest of the mountain, Hubler Gap Vista will be directly in front of you.

Exploring Hubler Gap Vista
Hubler Gap Vista offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Rothrock State Forest, showcasing the natural beauty of Pennsylvania’s rolling hills.

In the summer, the forest is a sea of vibrant green, with lush tree canopies stretching as far as the eye can see.

In winter, the landscape transforms into a serene, snow-dusted wonderland, with bare trees revealing the contours of the hills and valleys, creating a stark yet peaceful contrast against the muted tones of the season.

Whether surrounded by summer’s dense foliage or winter’s tranquil stillness, the vista is a perfect spot to take in the expansive wilderness.

When you’ve had your fill of Hubler Gap Vista, simply retrace your steps back to the parking area along Route 45.

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 south of Hubler Gap Vista.

Find even more great spots to explore all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!
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