Going outdoors has many benefits, and getting some fresh air is always a wise decision. There are places near our campus to do some fishing, or hiking trails where you can immerse yourself in the calmness outdoors. Beautiful evenings and warm afternoons make these places very special to go to. We are very fortunate to have such enjoyable places so close by our campus. I am sure the leaves changing colors will provide a fantastic backdrop for those who are interested in photography.
As someone who has lived in Slippery Rock my whole life, these are some of the best places for getting into nature and enjoying local experiences on a college budget.
Moraine State Park
A 20-minute drive from campus, filled with biking and walking trails, Moraine State Park is a beautiful park with many different places for activities.
There is a walking, running and biking trail that has mile markers listed for a total of 14 miles round-trip. There are fishing and swimming areas in addition to campsites where you can tent camp. Moraine holds multiple different locations where you can camp and stay off the side of a nature trail.
Jennings Nature Reserve
Ten minutes from campus, and before the entrance to Moraine State Park, Jennings Nature Reserve is a winding and twisting Nature Reserve where you can go to hike or walk. All of the trails are named and listed for distance from the central parking location, though exercise caution when hiking or walking because of the wildlife that you may encounter.
This is a wonderful place to get outdoors and walk or hike. Also exercise caution when the weather is inclement, as the trails can flood or be icy. The trails are well-maintained and are very accessible for everyone.
Playthings Etc.
Less than a 15-minute drive from campus, Playthings Etc. is a hobby, toys, and entertainment store that has everything from Silly Putty to drones. Affectionately known for its spaceship-esque exterior, they have a wide array of toys and hobbies represented. They have books and puppets as well. There is something for every age level. The spaceship is a landmark that many people drive past each day. There is also a vast selection of items for those with specific hobbies. Playthings Etc. is definitely worth checking out at least once or twice.
Wolf Creek Narrows Natural Area
Down a side road in Slippery Rock roughly 10 minutes from campus by car, you will find yourself at the Wolf Creek Narrows Natural Area. You can fish, hike and explore many trails, though you should definitely wear boots because it is deep in nature. There are a lot of beautiful photo opportunities including, but not limited to, the iron-grate bridge that goes over Wolf Creek. It is a wonderful place to hike that is not too far from campus.
North County Brewing Company
Within walking distance of campus and located at the end of Main Street in Slippery Rock is a restaurant full of delicious food and drinks, and not just alcohol. On Wednesday evenings, they host an open mic night for those who are interested in sharing their musical skills or poetry. On Thursday evenings, they run a free trivia night that you can participate in and win gift cards for the restaurant.
North Country Brewing Company provides a very fun, very musical way to spend your evenings at a local eatery that just celebrated its twenty-year anniversary earlier this year.
