The best walks and hikes in Samuel S. Lewis State Park
5.0
(3)
91
hikers
15
hikes
Hiking in Samuel S. Lewis State Park centers around the 885-foot Mount Pisgah, which provides views across the Susquehanna River Valley. The 85-acre park in York County features a network of trails that navigate through hardwood forests, pine plantations, and past rock formations. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate options for exploring the area's natural landscape.
Best hiking trails in Samuel S. Lewis State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Buzzards Roost loop from Robert A.…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
3.20km
00:51
40m
40m
Explore the easy 2.0-mile Heritage Trail in Native Lands County Park, featuring historical waystops and views of the Susquehanna Riverlands.
1
hikers
24.7km
06:16
60m
50m
Hike the difficult 15.4-mile Northwest Lancaster County River Trail, offering Susquehanna River views and historical landmarks.
Sign up for free
2.74km
00:46
50m
50m
Easy 1.7-mile hike through meadows and woodlands at Wizard Ranch Nature Preserve, offering views towards Roundtop and the Susquehanna River.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
7.05km
01:49
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.53km
00:24
10m
10m
Hike the easy 0.9-mile Girl Scout Trail Loop in Chickies Rock County Park, featuring Chiques Creek and views from Chickies Rock.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Samuel S. Lewis State Park
Tips from the Community
Here the bike path crosses scenic Chiques Creek. You can see the remnants of the Hiestand Saw Mill and Dam on the northwest side of the river.
0
0
The Zimmerman Center features the "Visions of the Susquehanna River" art collection, showcasing the beauty and significance of the river through artistic expression. They also offer various educational programs and lectures throughout the year, delving deeper into the region's rich history and heritage.
0
0
This park holds significance for its connection to the Susquehannock people, who inhabited the area as late as the 1670s. The park's star attraction is the one-mile Native Lands Heritage Trail, a scenic journey that winds through woodlands and meadows. As you hike the trail, keep an eye out for the seven numbered way stops that provide historical information about the land and its past inhabitants.
0
0
While the Susquehanna river trail is beautiful, parts of it can be muddy/flooded and sometimes impassable after heavy rain.
0
0
The White Cliffs of Conoy are a must-see. They sit nearly 30 feet above the riverbank and are the residue of a local limestone and dolomite quarry in the 1800's. The cliffs afford grand views of the Susquehanna River.
0
0
Chickies Rock County Park is a park on the banks of the Susquehanna River. There are multiple view points in the park that give a great vista of the river and woodlands on its bank. Northwest Lancaster County River Trail runs through the park.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Samuel S. Lewis State Park?
Yes, dogs are permitted in Samuel S. Lewis State Park but must be kept on a leash and under physical control at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet to help keep the park beautiful for everyone.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the park?
Absolutely. The park offers several shorter, easier trails perfect for families or a leisurely walk. For a very brief and accessible option, consider the Chickies Rock Overlook Trail loop, which is about a mile long and provides rewarding views.
Where is the best place to park for hiking?
The main parking area is located near the summit of Mount Pisgah at 6000 Mt Pisgah Rd, York, PA. This lot provides convenient access to the primary trailheads, picnic areas, and the main scenic overlooks. It's the best starting point for most hikes within the park.
What is the best time of year to hike in Samuel S. Lewis State Park?
Autumn is a particularly popular time to visit, as the foliage provides a stunning backdrop to the views over the Susquehanna River Valley. However, the park offers a great experience year-round. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush green scenery, and winter can provide clear, crisp views on a sunny day.
Are there any waterfalls in the park?
Samuel S. Lewis State Park is not known for waterfalls. The primary natural attractions are the panoramic vistas from Mount Pisgah, the dense hardwood forests, and the interesting rock formations found along some of the trails.
Which trail offers the best views of the Susquehanna River?
Most trails on Mount Pisgah offer glimpses of the Susquehanna River Valley. The main scenic overlook near the parking area provides the most expansive and easily accessible panoramic view. For a view from the trail, the Chickies Rock – Old Trolley Line Bridge loop from Columbia incorporates excellent viewpoints along its path.
What is the difficulty of the hiking trails?
The trails in Samuel S. Lewis State Park are generally considered easy to moderate. There are no technically difficult or strenuous long-distance hikes, making it an accessible destination for most fitness levels. The main challenge is the elevation change when ascending or descending Mount Pisgah.
Are the hiking trails well-marked?
Yes, the trails within the park are generally well-maintained and marked with blazes. However, it's always a good practice to carry a map or use a navigation app like komoot to stay on your intended route, especially where multiple trails intersect.
What kind of geological features can I see?
The park's centerpiece is Mount Pisgah, a high ridge that offers commanding views. Along some trails, such as the Hilltop Trail mentioned in park literature, you can find interesting rock formations. The geology provides a scenic and rugged element to the hikes.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Samuel S. Lewis State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views over the Susquehanna River Valley and the mix of peaceful woodland paths.
How many hiking trails are available in the park?
The park itself contains a network of shorter, interconnected trails. When combined with nearby routes, there are around 9 distinct hikes to explore in and around the Samuel S. Lewis State Park area, ranging from easy strolls to moderate loops.
Besides hiking, what other activities are available at the park?
Samuel S. Lewis State Park is a popular spot for many outdoor activities. The open, grassy slopes of Mount Pisgah are famous for kite flying. The park also has numerous picnic tables, playground equipment, and a nine-hole disc golf course.
Most popular routes in Samuel S. Lewis State Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
