Fall has officially descended upon us in Happy Valley, and folks are searching for new ways to enjoy the weather.

Playing golf is one of the perfect ways to take advantage of the nice weather while it lasts. Golf in State College isn’t just limited to the two Penn State Golf Courses, though. There are many more scattered throughout the area.

Here are some of the best golf courses in Happy Valley.

Tussey Mountain Par 3 Course

Although Tussey Mountain is mainly known for skiing, it’s home to a par 3 golf course throughout the summer and fall.

This is the perfect place to go if you’re a beginner and want to get out for a quick and fun round. The course is scattered throughout the bottom of the mountain and has nine holes. Tussey offers one-time rates and season passes, and the course’s hours and rates can be found on its website.

Mountain View Country Club

Previously operated as the private Elks Country Club until spring 2012, Mountain View Country Club offers beautiful views of both Tussey Mountain and Mount Nittany at a fair price. The course is now semi-private, meaning the public is welcome.

There are not many trees to worry about here, as the course is almost wide open. Don’t let that fool you, though, as there are a few water hazards scattered throughout the course.

Overall, Mountain View offers another fun experience without needing to stress over difficulty too much. Information about rates and tee times can be found here.

Toftrees Golf Resort

If you feel like you want a little more of a challenge, taking on Toftrees is the right place for you. It would be wise to stock up on golf balls before playing a round at Toftrees, as the course is lined with trees on every hole. Luckily, you won’t find much water on this course either. Birdies aren’t too hard to come by, but it’s very easy to score a large number on any given hole if you’re not playing your best.

Playing a round here without losing a golf ball is almost an achievement in itself. The course is highly regarded as one of the well-maintained courses in the area. Toftrees also offers a full-size grass driving range and putting green. Greens fees in the peak season can be a bit pricey, though.

More information on the course and rates can be found on its website.

Skytop Mountain Golf Club

Nestled in the hills of Port Matilda, Skytop Mountain Golf Club is practically carved into the side of a mountain. The course offers vast views of the rolling Pennsylvania hills from almost every hole, and is a great challenge for the more skilled golfers. Similar to Toftrees, each hole at Skytop is lined with trees, and there are no water hazards. It is highly recommended that golfers take golf carts, unless you want to walk up the side of a mountain while playing.

Skytop also offers a full size grass driving range, putting green, and short game area. Additionally, students are eligible for a student discount with a valid Penn State ID. The course’s rates and hours can be found on its website.

Penn State Blue & White Courses

The Penn State golf courses are both located right next to campus. The White Course is the easier of the two, but don’t let that fool you. It can still be a good challenge for any golfer. The greens are very firm, and it is easier than you think to get a ball trapped under the trees that are lined down most of the fairways. If you can put the ball in the right spots, it’s still very possible to be able to sneak in a birdie here and there to post a good final score. Overall, the White Course gives a fun experience that’s suitable for almost any golfer.

The Blue Course is the championship course between the two, and it’s no walk in the park. Losing your ball in the very thick rough is more common than you’d think, and the greens are well protected by bunkers throughout the course. This course might be the toughest in the area, but it’s a great place to truly put all of your skills to the test.

Both courses offer student memberships and discounts. Information about rates and tee times at both courses can be found here.