Wildwood Park

Cycle the easy 3.2-mile Wildwood Park Loop, a scenic route around a lake with wildlife spotting opportunities in Harrisburg, PA.

This touring cycling route offers a delightful escape into nature right from Harrisburg, combining sections of the Capital Area Greenbelt with the scenic trails of Wildwood Park. You'll cycle through diverse landscapes, from wooded areas and open meadows to the tranquil shores of the 90-acre lake, where you can often spot great blue herons and other wetland birds. The path varies from paved sections on Wildwood Way, which includes some moderate hills, to the easier, level pathway mix of the Towpath Trail, making for an engaging ride.

To plan your visit, know that the park is accessible year-round, with the changing seasons bringing new natural beauty. You can connect to the Wildwood Park loop from various points along the Capital Area Greenbelt, or park directly at Wildwood Park. Just remember that bicycles are not allowed on the wooden boardwalks or the specific Meadow Trail within the park, so be prepared to walk your bike through those short segments.

This moderate 15.3-mile (24.6 km) touring cycling route, with 540 feet (165 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 32 minutes, is a fantastic option for those seeking an urban oasis. Wildwood Park is not just a recreational spot; it also plays a vital ecological role as a natural filtration system for Paxton Creek and a flood control structure, making it a significant natural habitat for various wildlife species.

The Wildwood Park Meadow – Wildwood Park loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding around the scenic Wildwood Lake. You'll pedal along a mix of blacktop, gravel, and natural soil paths, enjoying picturesque views of the lake and a historic remnant of the Pennsylvania Canal. This easy route takes you through diverse habitats, from wetlands teeming with birds to peaceful woodlands and open meadows, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing.

This 14.6-mile (23.4 km) loop is an easy ride, with a gentle 380 feet (116 metres) of elevation gain, and can be completed in about 1 hour and 33 minutes. The Benjamin Olewine III Nature Center is a great place to start, offering facilities and information. While the main lake loop is perfect for bikes, remember that some other trails in Wildwood Park are not bike-friendly, so stick to the designated cycling paths.

Wildwood Park is a significant habitat for various bird species, including wetland birds and great egrets along the Towpath Trail, as well as other wildlife like frogs and salamanders. The park's accessibility, with some ADA-accessible sections, makes it a welcoming destination for many. This route also connects to the larger Capital Area Greenbelt, providing opportunities to extend your ride through the Harrisburg area.