Clarence Schock Memorial Park at Governor Dick

The Governor Dick – Governor Dick Hill loop from Mount Gretna offers a diverse and engaging hiking experience through classic Pennsylvania woodlands. You'll encounter varied terrain, from wide, flat paths to narrow, steep sections with rocks and roots, all leading to the impressive 66-foot Governor Dick Observation Tower. From the tower's summit, you can enjoy panoramic 360-degree views across five Pennsylvania counties on a clear day, making the effort well worth it.

This easy 4.2-mile (6.7 km) loop involves about 476 feet (145 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 53 minutes to complete. While the initial ascent to the tower can be strenuous, the overall trail is manageable for most. Parking is available at the park, and you can pick up a trail map at the Environmental Center, which is recommended as some signage can be inconsistent.

Beyond the scenic views, the park holds historical significance, having been used for charcoal production for the Cornwall Iron Furnace, and the hill is named after an enslaved man known as "Guv'nor Dick." The trail system is also popular for mountain biking and bouldering, and after your hike, the charming town of Mount Gretna offers amenities like the Jigger shop for ice cream. This is a great family-friendly hike with a unique landmark.

The Governor Dick loop near West Cornwall Township offers a delightful, easy hike through picturesque woodlands, culminating in expansive views from the iconic Governor Dick Observation Tower. This 2.0-mile (3.3 km) route, with its 317 feet (97 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through diverse forested terrain, providing a refreshing escape that typically takes less than an hour to complete. You'll find a mix of wide paths and some steeper sections, making it an engaging, yet accessible, outdoor experience.

Planning your visit to Governor Dick Park is straightforward; parking is available, though it can fill up during peak times, so an early start is often a good idea. No permits are required for hiking these trails, making it a convenient option for a spontaneous outing. The park is open year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery for exploring the Governor Dick loop trails.

This area, officially known as Clarence Schock Memorial Park at Governor Dick, holds historical significance, named after an enslaved man who worked for the Cornwall Iron Furnace in the 1800s. Beyond hiking, the park is also a popular spot for bouldering, with numerous diabase boulders scattered throughout. The 66-foot observation tower, built in 1954, is the main draw, providing impressive panoramic views that stretch across multiple counties on a clear day.