Deep past Beaver Stadium’s tailgate lots and tucked away behind Mount Nittany Medical Center is a hidden gem of Happy Valley.

Millbrook Marsh Nature Center is 62 acres of protected wetlands fit with boardwalks and various trails for hiking, birdwatching, and relaxation.

We took a visit less than two miles east of campus to check the area out for ourselves. Surprisingly, we were met with a scenic, peaceful escape from the rest of the hectic world.

The sprawling wooden boardwalks guide visitors through the marsh.

The boardwalks cross over water, past wildlife, and under giant trees. Along the way, different signs provide updates on the marsh and point out certain flowers and plants.

The marsh was having some work done on it, so certain sections were closed for safety reasons. A habitat restoration project to control invasive species was underway as well.

The water that ran through the marsh created an incredible, full-sensory experience. It looked, smelled, and sounded like ~nature~.

Benches also created peaceful resting places along the trails.

No walk through nature is complete without spotting some wild bugs, birds, and animals.

The marsh really created an immersive environment. It was easy to forget how close to campus I was until I caught glimpses of Beaver Stadium through the trees or passed by a man-made object.

Is the JoePa statue in this mysterious storage container?

Millbrook Marsh is certainly worth a visit while the weather is still nice. Once the leaves start turning even prettier colors, we’re sure it will be quite a spectacle. It was a nice escape from an otherwise hectic world.

While surrounded by pretty trees and running water, it’s easy to forget about the “coronavirus” or “exams.” Until a group of people without masks pass you on the boardwalk, that is.