Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States
1. Appalachian Trail
America's longest hiking trail starting from Georgia and ending at Maine. Offers diverse landscapes, including the Blue Ridge Mountains near Harrisburg.
- Length: 2,190 miles long
- Diversity: Crosses diverse ecosystems and climates
- Accessibility: Sections can be accessed from major cities like Harrisburg
2. Ricketts Glen State Park
Known for its 22 named waterfalls within a 7.2-mile hike. Offers a unique combination of rugged terrain and scenic beauty near Harrisburg.
- Waterfall Count: 22 named waterfalls
- Rugged Terrain: Challenging but rewarding hikes
- Scenic Beauty: Breathtaking views of waterfalls and surrounding forests
3. Pine Grove Furnace State Park
Home to the midpoint of the Appalachian Trail. Offers a rich history and a unique hiking experience near Harrisburg.
- Midpoint Location: Located at the exact midpoint of the Appalachian Trail
- Historical Significance: Includes a restored 19th-century iron furnace and worker's village
- Hiking Distance: Short hikes to historical sites and scenic overlooks
4. Owl's Roost Trail
A challenging trail in Michaux State Forest offering panoramic views of the Susquehanna Valley near Harrisburg.
- Challenging Terrain: Steep inclines and rocky terrain
- Views: Panoramic views of the Susquehanna Valley
- Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to spot various bird species and wildlife
5. Mason Dixon Trail
A long-distance trail that spans Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. Offers a varied landscape near Harrisburg.
- Length: 190 miles long in Pennsylvania
- Variety: Passes through forests, fields, and historic sites
- Accessibility: Sections can be accessed from Harrisburg and other cities along the trail
6. Susquehanna State Park
Offers hiking trails through diverse terrain including hills, forests, and alongside the Susquehanna River near Harrisburg.
- Diverse Terrain: Hills, forests, and river views
- Historical Sites: Includes the historic Codorus State Park and Fort Huntington
- River Access: Opportunities for kayaking or canoeing on the Susquehanna River
7. Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon
A deep gorge in the Raystown Branch of the Susquehanna River offering challenging hikes and scenic views near Harrisburg.
- Challenging Terrain: Steep descents and rocky trails
- Scenic Views: Breathtaking views of the canyon and river
- Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to spot various bird species and wildlife
8. Colonel Denning State Park
Offers a variety of hiking trails through forests and along the Lake Clarke. Offers a unique combination of relaxation and adventure near Harrisburg.
- Lake Access: Hikes lead to beautiful Lake Clarke
- Forest Hikes: Variety of trails through forests and meadows
- Relaxation Opportunities: Picnic areas, fishing, and boating available
9. Tuscarora State Forest
Offers hiking trails through rugged terrain with panoramic views of the Susquehanna Valley near Harrisburg.
- Rugged Terrain: Challenging but rewarding hikes
- Views: Panoramic views of the Susquehanna Valley
- Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to spot various bird species and wildlife
10. Pine Grove Furnace Loop Trail
A moderate trail loop that offers a variety of terrain including wooded areas and open fields near Harrisburg.
- Moderate Difficulty: 5.2-mile loop trail with some steep inclines
- Variety of Terrain: Wooded areas, open fields, and scenic vistas
- Historical Sites: Includes a restored 19th-century iron furnace and worker's village
11. Horseshoe Trail
A challenging trail in Michaux State Forest offering rugged terrain and panoramic views near Harrisburg.
- Challenging Terrain: Steep inclines, rocky trails, and diverse landscapes
- Views: Panoramic views of the surrounding forests and mountains
- Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to spot various bird species and wildlife
12. Crowd Knob Trail
A challenging trail in Michaux State Forest offering panoramic views of the Susquehanna Valley near Harrisburg.
- Challenging Terrain: Steep inclines, rocky trails, and diverse landscapes
- Views: Panoramic views of the Susquehanna Valley
- Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to spot various bird species and wildlife
13. Pine Grove Furnace Spur Trail
A short trail near the Appalachian Trail midpoint. Offers historical significance and easy accessibility near Harrisburg.
- Short Distance: 1-mile round trip
- Historical Significance: Located at the exact midpoint of the Appalachian Trail
- Accessibility: Easy access from Pine Grove Furnace State Park
14. Little Buffalo State Park
Offers hiking trails through diverse terrain including hills, forests, and alongside the Little Buffalo Creek near Harrisburg.
- Diverse Terrain: Hills, forests, and creek views
- Historical Sites: Includes a restored 19th-century gristmill
- Relaxation Opportunities: Picnic areas, fishing, and boating available
15. Raystown Lake Loop Trail
A moderate trail loop around Raystown Lake offering scenic views and diverse wildlife near Harrisburg.
- Moderate Difficulty: 12-mile loop trail with some steep inclines
- Scenic Views: Views of Raystown Lake and surrounding mountains
- Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to spot various bird species, deer, and black bears