Jo Hays Vista
A convenient roadside vista offering scenic views of State College and the valley, perfect for quick stops and as a trailhead parking spot.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light for best views
Jo Hays Vista
Best Time
Golden hour light for best views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A convenient roadside vista offering scenic views of State College and the valley, perfect for quick stops and as a trailhead parking spot.
"Great place to take in a picturesque view over looking State College, and Pine grove mills, Pa."
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Visit at dawn or dusk for the most stunning light and picturesque views of the valley.
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Park directly on the main road; no hiking needed to enjoy the scenery.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.5 · 81 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Valley Views
Main roadside viewpoint
Enjoy a beautiful vista overlooking State College and Pine Grove Mills. Best experienced at dawn and dusk.
Convenient Roadside Stop
Directly off the main road
Pull over easily for a quick, no-hike-required scenic break. Ample parking available.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the View
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hiking from Joe Hayes Vista to Musser Gap
Would like to do this hike with my wife. The plan is to take the jackson trail all the way over to musser gap and then down to the parking lot on 45. Is the trail overgrown? Are rattlesnakes an issue?
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Visit at dawn or dusk for the most stunning light and picturesque views of the valley.
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Park directly on the main road; no hiking needed to enjoy the scenery.
A short vacation at State College - Any suggestions?
Been a while since I visited. My GF and I are going up for a PSU soccer game and staying for a few days. Any suggestions for: 1) Your favorite Hilton-product hotel? 2) A good local place to stargaze (Cherry Springs is too far for us)? 3) Your favorite restaurant? 4) A good…
Things to do other than drink at night
Stargazing on Davey building on Fridays while the weather is good. Hiking Jo Hays Vista at night and having a bonfire. Movies or games at a friend's place. Pick each other's outfits at Goodwill and go out to eat. Wading in the creek at Spring Creek Park then playing on the…
🌲 Be Aware of Tree Cover
Trees can partially obstruct the view, so check the weather for clear sightlines.
📱 Good Cell Service
Plenty of cell service available, making it easy to share your views or stay connected.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Visit at dawn or dusk for the most stunning light and picturesque views of the valley.
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Park directly on the main road; no hiking needed to enjoy the scenery.
🌲 Be Aware of Tree Cover
Trees can partially obstruct the view, so check the weather for clear sightlines.
📱 Good Cell Service
Plenty of cell service available, making it easy to share your views or stay connected.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Jo Hays Vista for its convenient roadside access and picturesque views of State College, especially during dawn and dusk. It's a safe and easy stop for a quick scenic break or as a parking spot for nearby hikes. Some note that trees can partially obstruct the vista, so clear weather is best for optimal viewing.
"Good place to park for David’s vista. Right on main road beautiful view of the valley from your car. Plenty of cell service and place seemed safe to leave your car to go on a hike"
Cody Morgan (The Explorer)
"Great place to take in a picturesque view over looking State College, and Pine grove mills, Pa"
Jef Nelson
"Great place at dawn and dusk. Wonderful views when the weather cooperates."
Stephen Matthews
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jo Hays Vista is conveniently located directly on the main road, making it easily accessible by car. There's ample parking right at the viewpoint, so no additional travel or hiking is required to reach it.
Absolutely! It's designed as a perfect pit stop. You can enjoy the view right from your car or step out for a moment without any significant walking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Jo Hays Vista is a public viewpoint and does not have an entrance fee. It's free to access and enjoy the scenery.
As an outdoor viewpoint, Jo Hays Vista is accessible at any time. However, the best viewing experience is typically during daylight hours, especially at dawn and dusk.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll get a nice view overlooking State College and Pine Grove Mills. While trees can sometimes obstruct parts of the vista, the main opening offers a picturesque scene, especially during the golden hours.
Yes, especially during dawn and dusk when the light is soft and creates beautiful colors over the valley. Be mindful of the tree cover which might frame your shots.
While Jo Hays Vista itself is a roadside stop, it's a popular parking spot for hikers heading to trails like David's Vista or Musser Gap. The parking area is considered safe for leaving your car.
Yes, reviewers mention that there is plenty of cell service available at Jo Hays Vista, making it easy to stay connected.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit