The Susquehanna Greenway is a 500-mile corridor full of opportunities to explore the outdoors, including a network of fantastic hiking trails. Many of these trails are the perfect length for an enjoyable day hike.
Our list below showcases some of the top trails in the Susquehanna Greenway, ranging from immersive forest experiences to expansive vistas and viewpoints. Your next hiking excursion awaits!
Mocanaqua Trail
Located in the historic Wyoming Valley of northeastern PA, the original Moc Loop, as it is familiarly known, is actually a network comprising about 15 miles along the northern reach of Penobscot Mountain. As you explore the former network of coal roads, you’ll see abandon buildings harkening back to the mining industry. Along the hike, you’ll also encounter scenic overlooks of the Susquehanna River, surrounding mountains, and the small communities dotting the valley’s floor.
Learn More
Yost Run Trail Loop
This 7-mile trail traverses some of the prettiest scenery the state has to offer: lush mountain laurel and rhododendron, rushing waters, Yost Run Falls, large trees, and steep rocky hillsides. All this adds up to a sensory experience of being in the wilderness. It’s a moderately difficult but rewarding day hike, deep in the PA Wilds.
Learn More
Hyner View Trail
Beautiful views of the Susquehanna River and surrounding forest are what await adventurous hikers on this moderate – difficult trail along the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. This 5.2-mile out-and-back trail is challenging, but those who brave the climb are rewarded with panoramic views of the valley and Susquehanna River.
Learn More
Bald Eagle Mountain Trail
Bald Eagle Mountain is the westernmost ridge in its section of the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians, and lies south of the West Branch Susquehanna River. The mountain can be explored via numerous trails, but the hike to the overlook is a 9-mile out-and-back route. Once you work your way up to the top, follow the ridge west (known as Rattlesnake Ridge) until you reach the boulder field lookout point. This is a great overlook spot that also offers views of Lock Haven and the West Branch.
Learn More
Hawk Rock on the Appalachian Trail
This day hike offers access to the Appalachian Trail network from Duncannon, PA on the west side of the Susquehanna River. At the top, you’ll experience a stunning overlook view of the river, the perfect spot to sit for a snack and enjoy the view. It’s a fantastic day hike that gives you a taste of the Appalachian Trail in a 2.2-mile loop.
Learn More
Peters Mountain on the Appalachian Trail
Another day hike on the Appalachian Trail, this route offers a great opportunity to view the Susquehanna River from the east side, as well as its confluence with the Juniata River. As you climb, you can enjoy several views of the river through the trees. You can even catch sight of the Susquehanna’s Lady Liberty to the south with a good pair of binoculars.
Learn More
Cove Mountain Trail
From a distance, Cove Mountain looks like it floats on the Susquehanna River, while up close it is an unspoiled forest wilderness with vast views of the river landscape from above. This out-and-back trail is located near Duncannon with steep climbs and views of the Susquehanna from overlooks, including Hawk Rock. It will extend your Hawk Rock hike to a longer 8.3-mile route.
Learn More
Darlington Trail
The Darlington Trail runs from the junction of the Appalachian and Tuscarora Trails at its western end to Tower Road at its eastern end. The entire 7.7-mile route is located within State Game Lands 170 and is marked with orange blazes. Hikers will encounter several stream crossings, and views are especially beautiful in the fall when Blue Mountain is visible through the bare trees.
Learn More
Turkey Hill Overlook Trail
The Turkey Hill Trail is known for being secluded, yet it offers spectacular views and unique features. Along the 6-mile loop, hikers will pass through the largest pawpaw patch north of the 39th latitude, see the most important migration stop for shorebirds in the state, overlook an operational landfill, and stand near the base of the two Turkey Hill Dairy Windmills.
Learn More
Clark Nature Preserve Trails
Managed by the Lancaster County Conservancy, the preserve features a variety of forest and field habitats, as well as a small, 4.5-mile network of trails. The trails are great for a variety of hikes with a chance to see some beautiful wildflowers and wildlife along the way, as well as overlook views of the Susquehanna River. You may even see some white-tailed deer and wild turkeys on the trail and around the preserve!
Learn More
Conestoga Trail
At 14.3 miles, be prepared for periods of strenuous hiking up steep hills and occasional rock scrambles. The climb up steep hills is rewarded with a beautiful overlook of the Susquehanna River, and the hike through creek valleys on the way back includes a charming crossing of the Tucquan Creek and several small waterfalls.
Learn More
Rhododendron Trail
The Rhododendron Trail is a 1.2-mile hiking trail within Susquehannock State Park. The trail is moderately difficult, but is worthwhile to enjoy an immersive forest experience and views of the Susquehanna River.
Learn More