The best walks and hikes in Montour County

Montour County offers a diverse range of hiking experiences, from easy, flat paths along river valleys to more challenging routes through rolling hills and dense forests. You'll find trails winding through mixed deciduous and pine forests, alongside the picturesque Susquehanna River and smaller creeks, and around scenic wetlands. Many trails are multi-use, accommodating both hikers and mountain bikers.

Yes, Montour County has several easy trails suitable for families and those looking for a relaxed stroll. The Montour Preserve is particularly known for its accessible trails, including the 0.2-mile universally accessible Hummingbird Trail. Other easy options include the Chilisuagi Trail and the Shikellamy Marina Trail, both offering gentle terrain and pleasant scenery.

Montour County is rich in unique natural and historical features. A must-visit is the Montour Fossil Pit at Montour Preserve, where you can discover 395-million-year-old marine fossils. The region also boasts numerous historic covered bridges, particularly in Montour and neighboring Columbia counties, which make for picturesque sights. The Susquehanna River itself, with its shale cliffs and riverlands, offers stunning natural beauty.

For hikers seeking a more strenuous experience, areas like the Geisinger Stewardship Forest offer challenging trails such as Black Bear, Copperhead, and Stress Test, designed for varied terrain including ridgetop and streamside forests. The Down and Dirty Trail is another moderate option that provides a good workout with its elevation changes.

Many trails in Montour County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific regulations for each park or preserve. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash. The Montour Preserve, for example, allows leashed dogs on its extensive trail system. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them to maintain the natural beauty for all visitors.

Yes, Montour County offers several loop trails for hikers who prefer to start and end at the same point. The Hess Loop Trail in the Hess Recreation Area is a popular 3.8-mile wooded path that includes a scenic creek crossing and a historic covered bridge. Within the Montour Preserve, you'll find various interconnected trails that can be combined to form circular routes, such as the Goose Woods Trail.

Montour County offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases spectacular fall foliage across the diverse forests. Summer is ideal for enjoying the river views and shaded trails, though it can be warm. Winter hiking is also possible, especially on well-maintained paths, offering a serene and quiet experience.

Most major hiking areas in Montour County, such as the Montour Preserve, Hess Recreation Area, and Geisinger Stewardship Forest, provide designated parking lots for trail access. These facilities are generally well-maintained and free to use. It's always advisable to check the specific trailheads or park websites for detailed parking information before your visit.

Montour County's diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, and river valleys, support a rich variety of wildlife. Hikers often spot white-tailed deer, various small mammals, and a wide array of bird species. The Montour Preserve is particularly renowned as a bird-watching hotspot, attracting thousands of migratory ducks, geese, and other waterfowl, especially around Lake Chillisquaque.

Yes, Montour County is home to historically significant trails. The J. Manley Robbins Trail, located within the Hess Recreation Area, holds the distinction of being the first rail-trail in the United States. Additionally, the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail, though slightly longer, offers another excellent rail-trail experience, providing a relatively flat and scenic path through the countryside.