Exploring Pennsylvania's Many Trails and Forests

Pennsylvania offers some of the best hiking trails in the northeast, especially for those who enjoy meandering through quiet forests and along old rail lines. On a recent trip, I explored some of my favorite PA trails, each with its own unique scenery and challenges.

First up was the Mount Gretna Rail Trail in Lebanon County. This lovely 7-mile crushed stone trail follows the old Cornwall Railroad line through the beautiful Pennsylvania countryside. The relatively flat and wide trail winds through farmland and passes by old railroad stations now converted into charming homes. I enjoyed breathing in the damp forest air and feeling the streams of sunlight peaking in between the tall branches during an easy morning hike.

Next, I headed to Nolde Forest Environmental Center in Reading with my daughter and niece for a more wooded hike with peaceful streams. The trails here wind through 665 acres of forest, meadows, and wetlands. We spent some time wandering around the creek at Sawmill Run and then hiked the 4-mile Sawmill Trail loop which combines the Meadow Trail and parts of the Pond Trail. Dense ferns, moss-covered rocks, and huge old trees made this shady hike magical.

From there I headed to Governor Dick Park in Lebanon County. Named after Governor Dick Thornburgh, this 550-acre park has 27 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to difficult. I challenged myself with the steep Rocky Ridge Trail that leads to an old tower with the most incredible views high above the Swatara Creek. With a little luck and trail running, I made it to the top of the lookout just as the sun was setting. The sky was ablaze from one end to the other in reds and oranges and even yellows, greens, and blues as it met the clear blue sky. The vantage point of this high tower offered a full-range view of the specular show. I sat in awe and soaked in the cool breeze and warm autumn evening. Once the sun set down, I was met with an inspiring clear night sky. Stars twinkled everywhere I looked and a gray moon hung nearby. This experience was easily one of the top ten greatest in my many years of hiking.

On my final day, I hiked the serene trails of Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area. This preserve protects over 300 acres of forest and is home to some of the largest and oldest trees in eastern Pennsylvania. The Lookout Trail took me by towering tulip poplars and eastern hemlocks.

With its diversity of landscapes and ecosystems, Pennsylvania offers hikers an amazing variety of trail experiences. I’m already planning my next trip to explore more of the state’s beautiful parks and forests. The miles of trails make PA a top hiking destination easily worth repeat visits.

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