New Holland, Pennsylvania

What is it with Harford County and its slew of awesome parks? Nestled in the Northeast corner of Maryland, between the Chesapeake Bay and the river it takes its name from, Susquehanna State Park is gorgeous. A couple miles and a world away from I-95, SSP is expansive and lush. There are 15 miles ...

Because Palmer State Park is still under development (with no timeline given for its completion), there are only a few trails that meander through this 555-acre reserve. Palmer's official website offers a not-so-helpful topographical map, but the easiest way into the park that I could find was ne...

The white trail is the only true loop hike in the park. Strangely enough, it has no official trailhead. You can gain access to the trail from either Pavilion/picnic are #9 or Pavilion/picnic area #16. I chose picnic area #9 and hiked in a clockwise direction. This section starts very close to and...

Park in the lot off of  St. Clair Bridge Rd to access the trail.  Be aware that some parts of the trail are rocky and/or steep. This trail is dog friendly and is accessible from October through November. 

It’s a great spot for a quick run or hike. If you want to extend your time outdoors after you’ve completed the loop, there are other trails to choose from as well. The park is dog friendly, but all dogs must be leashed.  Many enjoy this park for its scenic river and bridge views. The well-tended...

Park in the lot (see map) and follow signage for the loop trail. This is not a highly trafficked trail so there may be sections that need some maintenance, but that won't get in the way of completing the hike. 

The 4.5 mile loop Hawk Mountain Lookout Trail takes you up to great views of the skyline of Pennsylvania. Surrounded by the rolling forested landscape and open sky, this trail is scenic through and through. Hike in the Spring to catch the flourishing wildflowers, and keep your eyes peeled for eag...

If you are going to tour Northern Delaware, look no further than the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail. This ~12 mile route links some of the best sites and attractions in the region including Bellevue State Park, Wilmington State Park, Brandywine Creek State Park, Brandywine Zoo, and Rockford Par...

The Skippack Creek Trail in Evansburg State Park was one of my favorites on this most recent trip. Any chance I can hike a trail alongside a river, I take advantage of it. The trail starts on the south side of Skippack Creek at a parking area on Kratz Road. It was early in the morning and the wea...

The parking lot can be tricky to find your first time. From I-81 Take Tower City exit on Rt. 325 W. Before airport, take Gold Mine Rd south over first major ridge. After ridge look for a driveway/parking lot on the left, it is the one just downhill of the big wide open parking lot. The road has...

Especially scenic in the fall, this well maintained trail loops around a small pond. It is an easy walk (or bike ride) that has a good chance of numerous wildlife sightings.

Most people visit Elk Neck to photograph the lighthouse, or access to the Bay (the throttle of speed boats is never far), but don't miss out on the trails. The three mile out-and-back White Banks Trail offers crazy-beautiful views of the Chesapeake as well as a moderately difficult workout. Park ...

Lums Pond State Park offers endless adventures while you camp in the newly renovated campground. Explore the pond via kayak, hike through more than 12 miles of trails, fish from the water’s edge, take your dog to enjoy the off-leash dog park, or try the Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course.   The camp...

This trail is best accessed from the Quaker Race Day Use Area or from the Cabin Colony for cabin occupants. This trail has a dirt or rocky surface, uneven terrain and one steep but short hill. This trail connects to Lakeside Trail at its end to form a 3-mile loop that passes through diverse habit...

This hike begins from the parking lot trailhead that is well-marked.  Be cautious - parking is limited and may be full on weekends, and the paved road suddenly ends at the parking lot entrance.  The path is crushed stone, wide, and relatively flat.  Dogs are welcome but must be on leashes.  On th...

This trail welcomes people of all skill levels. It’s mostly flat with just a few inclines and is nicely paved. It’s a relatively wide trail, leaving enough room for multiple walkers, hikers, skaters, or bikers. It’s the perfect trail for those looking to train long distances, whether running or...