South Park/Montour Connector Trail

The South Park Montour Trail Connector Loop offers a delightful mix of terrain and scenery, guiding you through mixed woodlands and into a quiet valley. You'll traverse sections of crushed asphalt, gravel, and paved paths, encountering features like a steel bridge over Sleepy Hollow Run, a serene duck pond, and even a model airplane field. The trail is mostly shaded, providing a pleasant experience as you explore the natural wooded setting.

This 2.7-mile (4.3 km) hiking route, with 268 feet (82 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 11 minutes to complete. While Komoot rates it as easy, be aware that the descent to Sleepy Hollow Run involves an 8-15% grade, meaning a sustained uphill climb on the way back, which can feel moderate. It's a family-friendly and dog-friendly option, accessible year-round, with spring and fall being ideal for comfortable temperatures and foliage.

This trail is a crucial link to the extensive Montour Trail system, a National Recreation Trail known for its bridges, trestles, and tunnels. The connector itself provides a varied experience, including views of an old stone quarry near the creek. No permits or fees are required, and parking is readily available within South Park, making it an easy choice for a local outdoor adventure.

Hike the moderate 9.3-mile South Park and Buffalo Ridge Loop, featuring varied terrain, wooded sections, and a buffalo enclosure.