The best walks and hikes around Mount Gretna Heights

The Governor Dick Outer Loop offers a diverse hiking experience through over 1,100 acres of forested land in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. You'll navigate a mix of wide, flat paths, old railroad beds, and more rugged sections with narrow, steep, and rocky terrain, often dotted with diabase boulders. The true reward comes from ascending the 66-foot Governor Dick Observation Tower, where you're treated to expansive 360-degree views that can stretch across five counties on a clear day.

This moderate 7.1-mile (11.4 km) hike, with 539 feet (164 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 6 minutes. The park is well-known for its extensive trail network, many of which are multi-use, so be prepared to share the path with mountain bikers and equestrians. Parking is available at Clarence Schock Memorial Park; arriving earlier in the day is always a good strategy, especially on weekends.

The park and hill are named after "Guv'nor Dick," an enslaved man respected for his work at the Cornwall Iron Furnace, adding a layer of historical depth to your visit. Beyond hiking, the area is popular for bouldering, with numerous diabase boulders providing climbing opportunities. The Environmental Center also offers educational programs, making it a great spot for a varied outdoor adventure.

The Dinkey Track Trail offers a wonderfully easy hiking experience, perfect for a quick nature break. You will find yourself on a simple dirt path, which can become quite muddy after a good rain, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear. This short route is managed by the Lula Lake Land Trust, ensuring a well-maintained and pleasant environment for your stroll.

This 0.8-mile (1.3 km) trail is rated easy, with absolutely no elevation gain (0 feet / 0 metres), making it accessible for everyone. It takes about 21 minutes to complete, so it is a great option if you are looking for a brief, undemanding walk. Consider visiting on a dry day to avoid muddy conditions, especially if you prefer a cleaner hike.

What makes the Dinkey Track Trail notable is its accessibility and its management by the Lula Lake Land Trust, which often implies a focus on conservation and natural beauty. It is a fantastic choice for Dinkey Track Trail family friendly hikes or for beginners looking to enjoy the outdoors without a strenuous commitment. The trail also welcomes bicycles, adding to its versatility.

The Conewago Trail loop from Mount Gretna offers a delightful contrast, starting with the smooth, shaded crushed limestone of the Conewago Recreation Trail as it meanders alongside the tranquil Conewago Creek through farmlands. Soon, the route transitions into the more rugged, wooded hills of the Mount Gretna area, where you'll navigate rocky paths and encounter interesting rock formations. This blend of easygoing rail-trail and challenging forest terrain makes for a dynamic hiking experience.

This moderate hike covers 6.7 miles (10.8 km) with 648 feet (197 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours to complete. Parking is available in the Mount Gretna area, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially on busy days, to ensure a spot. The trail is well-shaded for much of its length, making it a pleasant option even during warmer months, but always bring plenty of water.

This loop is a great way to experience the region's history, as the Conewago Recreation Trail follows a former railroad corridor that once served the Mount Gretna resort. It also connects to the broader Lebanon Valley Rail Trail, offering opportunities for longer excursions. The varied landscape, from pastoral creek views to dense woodlands, makes this one of the more popular trails in the Mount Gretna area for those seeking a diverse outdoor adventure.

The Governor Dick – Governor Dick Hill loop from Mount Gretna offers a diverse and engaging hiking experience through classic Pennsylvania woodlands. You'll encounter varied terrain, from wide, flat paths to narrow, steep sections with rocks and roots, all leading to the impressive 66-foot Governor Dick Observation Tower. From the tower's summit, you can enjoy panoramic 360-degree views across five Pennsylvania counties on a clear day, making the effort well worth it.

This easy 4.2-mile (6.7 km) loop involves about 476 feet (145 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 53 minutes to complete. While the initial ascent to the tower can be strenuous, the overall trail is manageable for most. Parking is available at the park, and you can pick up a trail map at the Environmental Center, which is recommended as some signage can be inconsistent.

Beyond the scenic views, the park holds historical significance, having been used for charcoal production for the Cornwall Iron Furnace, and the hill is named after an enslaved man known as "Guv'nor Dick." The trail system is also popular for mountain biking and bouldering, and after your hike, the charming town of Mount Gretna offers amenities like the Jigger shop for ice cream. This is a great family-friendly hike with a unique landmark.