The best walks and hikes around Duncannon

The Appalachian Trail section from Peters Mountain to Clark's Ferry is a demanding but highly scenic hike, offering classic Pennsylvania AT terrain. You'll navigate notoriously rocky footing and steep climbs, but your efforts are rewarded with expansive views of the Susquehanna and Juniata Rivers, especially from viewpoints like Kinter View. This difficult 12.8-mile (20.6 km) route, with 1304 feet (398 metres) of elevation gain, is a true test of endurance and typically takes around 5 hours and 46 minutes.

To tackle this challenging route, start at the Clark's Ferry Park and Ride, crossing railroad tracks to reach the trailhead. Good footwear and trekking poles are highly recommended due to the rocky and sometimes slippery conditions, including rock scrambles. For enhanced panoramic views of the river confluence and surrounding landscape, consider hiking during the colder months when the trees have shed their leaves.

This segment of the Appalachian Trail is known for its significant elevation changes and the stony ridge at the crest of Peters Mountain. You'll pass the Clark's Ferry Shelter and the newer Peters Mountain Shelter, a nod to the trail's rich history. The route also features a pedestrian bridge over Route 225, a crucial safety improvement for hikers accessing this popular section.

The David's Field Loop is a charming and accessible hiking route, perfect for a leisurely walk through varied scenery. You'll experience the openness of an east field with panoramic views, then transition into diverse forests featuring white pine and sassafras trees. This easy 1.6-mile (2.5 km) loop has a gentle 96 feet (29 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 40 minutes to complete, making it a great option for families and those new to hiking.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with ample parking available at Detweiler Park, which acts as the trailhead. While the trail is generally well-maintained, be aware of exposed tree roots that can pose tripping hazards, and some sections might be wet from springs, particularly after recent rainfall. It's a great choice for a quick, refreshing outing any time of year.

What makes this trail stand out is its ability to connect you with nature and other routes within Detweiler Park. You can easily link up with trails like the Stackpole Trail or Frankie's Dogleg Loop to extend your adventure. The park also features a StoryWalk®, an interactive outdoor reading experience that adds a unique touch to your visit, especially if you're hiking with children.

Embark on a classic Appalachian Trail experience through Pennsylvania's 'Rocksylvania' on this challenging route. You'll immediately face a steep ascent up Peters Mountain, navigating switchbacks and significant rock scrambles, before reaching ridge lines that offer expansive views of the Susquehanna and Juniata River valleys. Expect a journey through dense wooded areas interspersed with open overlooks, providing a true taste of the rugged Appalachian landscape.

This difficult 17.2-mile (27.6 km) hike involves 1553 feet (473 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 7 hours and 46 minutes. Be sure to carry plenty of water, as the water sources at Peters Mountain Shelter and Cove Mountain Shelter can be challenging to access, sometimes requiring a steep descent and climb. This route is best for experienced hikers prepared for rocky terrain and sustained effort.

This section of the Appalachian Trail is renowned for its 'Rocksylvania' character, a nickname thru-hikers give to Pennsylvania's notoriously rocky paths. You'll pass by historic features like Peters Mountain Shelter, originally built by the first AT thru-hiker Earl Shaffer, and enjoy scenic viewpoints such as Hawk Rock, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys.

The Table Rock View trail in Pennsylvania offers a delightful, easy hiking experience with rewarding vistas. You'll traverse a path that blends wide, level woods roads with some rockier, steeper sections, leading you to the Table Rock Viewpoint. From there, soak in the expansive views stretching across the Susquehanna River and Valley to the south, a perfect spot for a quick escape into nature.

This 2.1-mile (3.4 km) route involves a gentle 156 feet (48 metres) of elevation gain and can be completed in about 55 minutes, making it highly accessible. While specific parking information for this particular Table Rock View hiking trail isn't detailed, it's generally advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. Check local resources for trailhead access, particularly if you're linking up from the Appalachian Trail.

This Table Rock View is notable for its geological significance, especially near the Delaware Water Gap, where 70-foot-long striations from glacial movement are visible—the longest in Pennsylvania. It's a fantastic option for beginner hikes or families looking for a scenic outing without a strenuous climb, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical geology.