The best walks and hikes in Lebanon County

Yes, the region offers several easy walks perfect for families. The Hiking loop from Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area is a short, gentle walk of just over a mile, ideal for little legs and wildlife spotting. Another great option is the Conewago Trail loop from West Cornwall Township, which provides a pleasant stroll through a wooded area.

Swatara State Park is your best destination for waterfall hikes in Lebanon County. The park features the popular Bear Hole Trail which leads to Aycrigg's Waterfall. The trails in this park offer a mix of forest and creekside scenery.

Most parks in Lebanon County, including Swatara State Park and Clarence Schock Memorial Park at Governor Dick, are dog-friendly. However, regulations require that dogs must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Always check the specific park's rules before you go.

The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail is the premier choice for a flat and easy walk. This multi-use greenway stretches for over 18 miles, offering a smooth, crushed stone surface perfect for a leisurely hike. It winds through scenic countryside and the charming area of Mount Gretna.

For a more strenuous hike, consider the Governor Dick Hill loop from West Cornwall Township. This moderate route involves over 200 meters of elevation gain and rewards hikers with panoramic views from the observation tower at the summit. The rugged terrain of the Appalachian Trail section also provides a good challenge.

A 9.5-mile section of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) crosses the northern part of Lebanon County along the Kittatinny Ridge, also known as Blue Mountain. This scenic stretch offers classic A.T. hiking through rugged, forested landscapes.

The observation tower at Clarence Schock Memorial Park at Governor Dick offers one of the best panoramic views in the region, overlooking five counties. The short hike to Boxcar Rocks also provides rewarding views of the surrounding valleys from atop unique conglomerate rock formations.

Yes, many trails in the area are loops. For a shorter walk, the Conewago Trail loop from Mount Gretna is a great option. If you're looking for something longer that incorporates local history, the Cornwall Iron Furnace loop from Cornwall is an excellent choice, covering nearly 9 miles.

The trails in Lebanon County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the variety of landscapes from rail trails to wooded hills, and the beautiful scenery, especially within the state and local parks.

There are several dedicated parking areas for the rail trail. The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail - Cornwall Trailhead is a popular and well-regarded starting point, offering options to head north towards Lebanon or south into the countryside. You can also find access at the 25th Street Trailhead in Lebanon.

Yes, you can combine hiking with history. Swatara State Park contains the historic Bordner Cabin, accessible via its trail system. Additionally, the area around Cornwall is rich in industrial history, with the Cornwall Iron Furnace being a major landmark you can explore near several local trails.

Hiking is possible year-round, but autumn is particularly spectacular when the foliage along the Kittatinny Ridge and in the state parks is at its peak color. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers, while summer is great for enjoying the shaded, wooded trails.