The best walks and hikes around Harrisburg

Yes, Harrisburg has several great options for families. Wildwood Park is a popular choice, offering easy trails, 1.5 miles of boardwalks over wetlands, and the engaging Olewine Nature Center. For a day trip, Little Buffalo State Park provides easy trails around Holman Lake, a swimming pool, and historic sites.

Many trails in the Harrisburg region are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check the specific regulations for each park before you go. A highly regarded spot for hiking with your dog is Wildwood Park, which features trails and boardwalks where leashed dogs are welcome. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.

For a more strenuous hike, the section of the Appalachian Trail on Peter's Mountain is a local favorite. This hike involves a steep climb and some rock scrambles, true to Pennsylvania's “Rocksylvania” nickname, but rewards you with incredible views over the Susquehanna River. It's a true test of fitness with a significant payoff.

The Harrisburg area has plenty of trails perfect for beginners. The Dragonfly Pond loop — Reedy Creek Nature Preserve is an excellent choice, offering a gentle 2.5-mile path around a scenic pond. Another great option is the Capital Area Greenbelt, a 24-mile loop with many flat, accessible sections ideal for a relaxed walk.

For stunning vistas, Hawk Rock Overlook is a must-visit. It's a relatively short but steep hike on the Appalachian Trail that leads to a fantastic viewpoint over the Susquehanna River, especially beautiful when wildflowers are in bloom. The view is widely considered one of the best in the region.

The Appalachian Trail (A.T.) runs just north of Harrisburg, making it quite accessible. A popular access point is near Duncannon, PA, where you can hike to scenic spots like Hawk Rock. Another access area is for the Peter's Mountain section, which also offers trailheads for challenging loop hikes.

Yes, there are several enjoyable loop trails. The Dragonfly Pond loop from Reedy Creek Nature Center is a well-liked easy circular route. For a more challenging loop, the Peter's Mountain section of the Appalachian Trail can be combined with other paths to form a strenuous but rewarding circuit with fantastic views.

Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area is a local favorite, known for its impressive trees and well-maintained trail system. The preserve offers over 12 miles of interconnected trails ranging from easy to difficult, winding through forests and up to ridgetop views. It's an excellent destination for experiencing a mature Pennsylvanian forest.

While the immediate Harrisburg area is more known for its river views and ridge climbs, you can find waterfalls by exploring the surrounding state parks and game lands. A short drive to areas like Tuscarora State Forest or Michaux State Forest will offer trails that feature small cascades and waterfalls, especially after recent rainfall.

The trails around Harrisburg are well-regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the variety of terrain, from the peaceful, flat paths along the Susquehanna River to the challenging, rocky ascents on the Appalachian Trail. The accessibility of beautiful natural scenery so close to the city is a frequently mentioned highlight.

The Capital Area Greenbelt is a 24-mile loop that encircles the city of Harrisburg. It's a multi-use trail that passes through a variety of settings, including city parks, wooded areas, and scenic stretches along the Susquehanna River. You can easily walk, run, or bike shorter sections of it at a time.