
Hiking & Outdoor Adventures Nearby in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, United States
1. Chickies Rock
Enjoy panoramic views from this unique rock outcropping along the Susquehanna River.
- Riverside Views: Offers a breathtaking view of the Susquehanna River
- Easy Accessibility: Short, family-friendly hike with minimal elevation gain
- Photography Opportunities: Ideal for capturing sunrises and sunsets
2. Pinnacle Overlook
Reach the highest point in Susquehanna State Park for a rewarding vista.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the surrounding valleys and ridges
- Moderate Difficulty: Suitable for intermediate hikers with some steep sections
- Historic Interest: Nearby is the historic Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge, America's oldest surviving covered bridge
3. Tucquan Trail at Turkey Hill
Follow Tucquan Creek through verdant forests and past cascading waterfalls.
- Waterfall Sightings: Features multiple cascades along the trail
- Natural Beauty: Hike through pristine forests and alongside a clear, flowing stream
- Relaxation Spot: Great for picnics or simply enjoying the serene surroundings
4. Herr's Cave
Explore this fascinating geological wonder featuring unique limestone formations.
- Limestone Formations: Features stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones
- Underground Adventure: A rare opportunity to explore an underground cave system
- Historical Significance: Used as a hideout by Native Americans and early settlers
5. Pequea Creek Gorge
Traverse a deep, narrow gorge along Pequea Creek with its cascading waterfalls.
- Gorge Hike: Hike along the edge of a dramatic, narrow canyon
- Waterfall Views: Offers multiple vantage points for viewing waterfalls
- Rock Climbing Opportunities: Features areas popular with rock climbers
6. Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
Step back in time at this iron-making community from the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
- Historic Preservation: Preserves a piece of Lancaster's industrial history
- Hiking Trails: Offers several miles of scenic hiking trails
- Interactive Programs: Features educational programs and demonstrations for visitors
7. Dutch Wonderland
Experience family-friendly fun with roller coasters, water rides, shows, and character meet-and-greets.
- Family Entertainment: Offers a variety of activities for families with young children
- Theme Park Atmosphere: Features rides, shows, and interactive experiences based on Dutch culture
- Birthplace of Juvalt the Great: Home to the famous wooden roller coaster, Juvalt the Great
8. Railroad Park
Stroll along the Susquehanna River and explore remnants of a historic railroad bridge.
- Historic Railroad Remains: Features remains of an old railroad trestle
- Riverside Setting: Offers a peaceful, scenic riverfront walk
- Recreational Opportunities: Includes basketball courts, playgrounds, and picnic areas
9. Wheatland Slopes Natural Area Preserve
Discover a serene natural area featuring woodlands, meadows, and wildlife.
- Wildlife Observation: Offers opportunities to spot deer, turkey, and various bird species
- Scenic Beauty: Features rolling hills, meadows, and wooded areas
- Tranquil Retreat: Ideal for quiet hikes or a peaceful picnic
10. Providence Park
Enjoy a scenic walk through this picturesque park featuring a lake and historic sites.
- Historic Landmarks: Includes the historic Providence Bridge
- Lakefront Scenery: Features a serene lake surrounded by walking paths
- Picnic Spots: Offers picnic areas perfect for family outings
11. Railroad Park and Riverfront Promenade
Take a scenic stroll along the Susquehanna River, passing historic railroad structures.
- Historic Railroad Structures: Features remnants of old railroad bridges
- Riverside Scenery: Offers a picturesque view of the Susquehanna River
- Recreational Opportunities: Includes basketball courts, playgrounds, and picnic areas
12. Lancaster County Central Park
Explore a sprawling park with sports fields, walking trails, and playgrounds.
- Sports Facilities: Features multiple sports fields for soccer, football, and more
- Walking Trails: Offers several miles of walking paths
- Family-Friendly Activities: Includes a splash pad, playgrounds, and picnic areas
13. Conestoga State Park
Experience natural beauty at this park with camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
- Camping Sites: Offers tent and RV campsites for overnight stays
- Fishing Spots: Features several stocked fishing areas
- Hiking Trails: Offers scenic hikes through woodlands and alongside streams
14. Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
Enjoy a fun-filled day with activities like hayrides, corn mazes, and pick-your-own fruits.
- Family Activities: Offers a variety of activities for families with young children
- Seasonal Events: Hosts seasonal events like pumpkin picking in fall and Christmas celebrations in winter
- Farm-to-Table Experience: Features a farm market selling fresh produce and baked goods
15. Lancaster Marsh Wetlands
Discover diverse wildlife in this wetland habitat with boardwalks for easy exploration.
- Wildlife Observation: Offers opportunities to spot birds, turtles, and other aquatic species
- Boardwalks for Easy Access: Features boardwalks that allow easy exploration without disturbing the habitat
- Environmental Education: Includes educational signs and programs about the wetland ecosystem