The best walks and hikes around New Market

The Highspire Reservoir Park Trail is a delightful, easy hike that feels like a hidden gem, even though it's right in a residential area. This 1.0-mile (1.6 km) loop takes about 23 minutes to complete, with a barely noticeable 4 feet (1 meter) of elevation gain, making it incredibly accessible. You'll wander through diverse wooded areas and along a scenic central reservoir, with surfaces ranging from boardwalks to gravel paths, offering a pleasant and varied experience.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is fully accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and is very kid-friendly. It's well-maintained and features benches along the way for comfortable breaks. This route is ideal for a quick, peaceful escape into nature, perfect for a short stroll or a leisurely outing with the family.

What truly sets this trail apart is its abundant wildlife and diverse ecosystem. Birdwatchers can spot herons, egrets, and even eagles, while spring brings large snapping turtles basking near the water. You might also encounter deer, foxes, and other small mammals, making every visit a chance to connect with nature, no matter the season.

The City Island Loop offers a delightful, easy hike around a unique leisure destination. You'll experience a blend of natural river views and urban landmarks, including the historic Walnut Street Bridge and glimpses of the Harrisburg city skyline. The trail itself is predominantly flat, covering varied surfaces like asphalt and crushed stone, making it a pleasant and accessible 1.1-mile (1.8 km) journey that takes about 27 minutes.

Planning your visit to City Island is straightforward, with easy access via bridges and ample parking available right on the island. This makes it a convenient choice for a quick outing or a leisurely afternoon. Given its easy difficulty and minimal 10 feet (3 metres) of elevation gain, it's an ideal spot for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a relaxing walk without much effort.

City Island itself is a mile-long hub dedicated to sports and recreation, offering more than just a scenic walk. Beyond the trail, you can find an 18-hole miniature golf course, batting cages, and even beaches. The loop is also part of the larger Capital Area Greenbelt, providing connections to other routes and offering train and boat tours for different perspectives of the area.

The Capital Area Greenbelt: Riverfront Park and City Island Loop offers a refreshing blend of urban scenery and natural river views, making it one of the best hiking trails in Harrisburg, PA. This easy 4.3-mile (6.9 km) loop, with just 40 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain, takes around 1 hour and 44 minutes to complete. You'll stroll along the Susquehanna River through Riverfront Park, admiring public art and cityscapes, before crossing the historic Walnut Street Bridge to explore City Island. The flat, paved, and crushed stone paths make for a comfortable and engaging experience.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with City Island serving as a popular starting point that provides ample parking. The route is highly accessible, particularly from City Island along Front Street, making it suitable for nearly everyone, including those with wheelchairs. This trail is ideal for a relaxed outing, offering a chance to enjoy the outdoors without a strenuous climb.

This loop is a key segment of the larger Capital Area Greenbelt, seamlessly integrating Harrisburg's history and culture with natural beauty. City Island itself is a recreational hub, home to attractions like FNB Field and miniature golf, adding an extra layer of interest to your walk. The pedestrian-only Walnut Street Bridge provides expansive river vistas, connecting you directly to the heart of the city's riverfront amenities.

The Capital Area Greenbelt: Reservoir Park Loop offers a delightful and easy hiking experience, perfect for a quick escape. This 1.5-mile (2.5 km) circular walk takes you through well-maintained paved, gravel, and crushed stone paths, leading to one of Harrisburg's highest points. From Reservoir Park, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the State Capitol building, the Susquehanna River, and the Blue Mountains, alongside charming garden areas and fountains.

This accessible route, with its minimal 81 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain, is designed to be completed in about 39 minutes, making it ideal for a casual stroll. While specific parking and public transport details for this exact loop aren't highlighted, the broader Capital Area Greenbelt is generally well-serviced and features wayfaring signs. It's a great choice for a relaxed outing, especially on a clear day to maximize those scenic viewpoints.

Historically rich, Reservoir Park dates back to 1845 and once supplied water to Harrisburg with its 1872 reservoirs. The park's landscape was designed by Warren H. Manning, who collaborated on projects like Central Park. You can also explore the National Civil War Museum and admire the "Mother Park" sculpture, adding a cultural layer to this easy hike within the extensive 20-mile Capital Area Greenbelt.