The best walks and hikes in Lancaster County

Yes, there are over 50 hiking routes to explore in Lancaster County. The trails primarily feature gentle, rolling terrain, winding through forests and along the shores of lakes and creeks, making it an accessible destination for various skill levels.

For an easy, family-friendly outing, the Lake Crandall loop from Lake Crandall is a great choice. It's a short, gentle walk around the lake. Another excellent option is the Northwest River Trail, which offers 6.4 miles of beautiful, flat terrain along the Susquehanna River, perfect for all ages.

Many parks and trails in Lancaster County are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. For example, Lancaster County Central Park generally welcomes leashed dogs on its trails. However, some nature preserves managed by the Lancaster Conservancy may have restrictions to protect wildlife. Always check the specific regulations for the trail you plan to visit before bringing your dog.

While most trails in the area are rated easy to moderate, you can find more strenuous terrain at Kelly's Run Nature Preserve, which is known for some of the most difficult hiking in the county with its steep climbs. For a moderately challenging route, consider the Blue Star Trail & Muscadine Trail loop — Anne Springs Close Greenway, which covers about 5 miles.

Yes, many trails are designed as loops so you can end your hike where you started. A pleasant circular route is the Cane Creek Lake loop via Red Trail — Waxhaw, which offers a scenic 3.6-mile walk. Another option is the Graham Cabin – Swinging Bridge loop from Wakefield.

Several parks and overlooks are local favorites for hiking.

Lancaster County Central Park is the largest park in the county and offers numerous trails for all activities. Chickies Rock County Park is highly regarded for its impressive overlook of the Susquehanna River. For a unique landscape, many hikers visit the White Cliffs of Conoy, which features a paved path leading to distinctive white dolomite formations along the river.

Yes, for hikes featuring water, the Martic Township Park Loop is a good option, offering views of natural water features along its 1.9-mile trail. Kelly's Run Nature Preserve is also well-known for the creek and small waterfalls that you can see along its more rugged trail system.

The trails in Lancaster County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the serene lakeside scenery, and the peaceful woodland settings found throughout the region.

For spectacular views, Pinnacle Scenic Overlook Nature Preserve is a must-visit, offering one of the most expansive vistas in the county. Chickies Rock County Park also provides a rewarding and easily accessible overlook with stunning views of the Susquehanna River. Another popular spot is the Turkey Hill Overlook Trail, which leads to a solid viewpoint.

For a day hike in Lancaster County, comfortable hiking shoes are essential. It's wise to bring water, snacks, and a map or a fully charged phone with the komoot app. Depending on the season, you should also pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light rain jacket, as the weather can change.

Most major parks and trail systems, such as Lancaster County Central Park and Chickies Rock County Park, have designated parking areas. For rail-trails like the Northwest River Trail, you can find access points with parking in towns like Columbia and Marietta. However, lots can fill up on weekends, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended.

Accessing trailheads via public transport can be challenging, as many are located in rural areas away from bus routes. Your best option is to drive to the designated parking areas. Some trails near towns like Columbia or Elizabethtown may be more accessible, but a personal vehicle offers the most flexibility for exploring the region's diverse trail network.