Hiking

Of all the activities found in Pennsylvania State Parks, hiking climbs to the top of the heap in popularity, versatility and accessibility for visitors of all ages.

Hiking trails in state parks lead to beautiful vistas and waterfalls, or by wetlands bubbling with life, or through dark, old growth forests, and to uncountable adventures and chances to see wildlife. Some trails are scenic or leisurely, while others are self guiding educational, or rigorous exercise.

Explore a kid's page about hiking safety equipment and what to do if you become lost. Help Robby Hike

Shortcuts to this Page Where Can I Get a Map of the State Park Trails? Where Can We Backpack in the State Parks? Are Major PA Trails Accessible Through State Parks? What About National Trails? What is Rails-to-Trails? Trail Guidelines State Parks with Hiking Trails Other Sites with Pennsylvania Trail Information

Where Can I Get a Map of the State Park Trails?

Currently, there is no statewide trail map encompassing all trails in the Pennsylvania State Parks system. Each park does, however, provide maps and any self guiding brochures specific to their own resources. The charts below list all state parks that have trails. Follow the links to the park pages.

Where Can We Backpack in the State Parks?

Visit Backpacking for more information.

Are Major Pennsylvania Trails Accessible Through State Parks?

Visit Trailheads for more information about state parks that serve as trailheads to hiking trails on public property.

What About National Trails?

The National Trail System was established in 1968 to promote the development of trails in both urban and rural settings for all people. Parts of this system wind through both Pennsylvania state forests and state parks, and continue to the surrounding states. This system provides many options for the experienced hiker. You can choose to take a long trip, a short hike or a backpacking adventure through several states. For more information visit National Scenic Trails.

What is Rails-to-Trails?

The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy was established in 1985 as a national non-profit charity with its mission to enhance America’s communities and countryside by converting thousands of miles of abandoned rail lines into a national system of public trails.

So far, nearly 7,000 miles of interconnected rail-trails have been converted. In addition to hiking trails, some trails have been designated for other uses such as bicycling, skiing, or snowmobiling.

Rail-trails are safe, easily accessible and many times very scenic. For a guide to the system write to: Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, Pennsylvania Chapter; 105 Locust St.; Harrisburg, PA 17101.

Visit Rails-to-Trails for more information.

Trail Guidelines

One of the reasons that hiking is so popular is because you do not need expensive equipment to participate, but proper foot gear, like sturdy boots, is important.

Here are steps that hikers can take to preserve the trails and stay safe.

• Do not overestimate your abilities. If you are a beginner or haven’t been active in a while, don’t take a long, grueling climb to the top of a mountain. You’ll simply sustain injuries. Start short; start level. Stick to a trail that suits your taste and level of fitness.
• Wear comfortable shoes. Many shoes, especially sandals, are attractive, but not practical. Opt instead for enclosed shoes with soles that provide good traction. Broken in shoes are best... blisters are NO fun.
• Bring a friend. Although hiking can be a valuable solitary escape, many times the enjoyment and safety doubles when you hike with a friend.
• Stay on the trail. Wandering off the trail can have serious consequences. You could become injured or lost. Some trails have also been built through very delicate habitats. Wandering off the trail could disturb and destroy parts of the habitat you came to see. Some trails do not originate within state park boundaries. As a result you may occasionally be hiking through some private land.
• Be sensible. Take into consideration the weather and the duration of your hike. Bring along any extra clothing, water or insect repellent according to the conditions.
• Do not litter.
• Respect wildlife.
• Do not drink or contaminate water sources.
• Do not make fires.

Go to a kid's page about hiking safety equipment and what to do if you become lost. Help Robby Hike

Access for People with Disabilities

If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the park you plan to visit.

Where to Hike

Select the region below to go to a graph of the parks in that region.
If you can't use the bitmap, use the text links below.

Pennsylvania's Great Lakes Region   -   Northeast Pennsylvania Mountains
Pittsburgh and Its Countryside   -   Philadelphia and the Countryside
Pennsylvania Wilds   -   The Alleghenies and Her Valleys
Dutch Country Roads

Other Sites with Pennsylvania Trail Information

Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry
Keystone Trails Association
Appalachian Trail Home Page (National Park Service)
Great Eastern Trail
Pennsylvania Rails-to-Trails

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