The best walks and hikes around Elverson
4.5
(32)
197
hikers
41
hikes
Hiking around Elverson, Pennsylvania, explores the rolling hills and dense woodlands of Chester and Berks counties. The region is characterized by its large forested areas, part of the Hopewell Big Woods, and features several lakes, including Hopewell Lake and Scotts Run Lake. Most trails are located within French Creek State Park and the adjacent Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, offering a mix of flat lakeside paths and more challenging, hilly routes.
Best hiking trails around Elverson
- The most popular hiking route is Boone Trail loop, a 6.1 miles (9.8 km) trail that takes 2 hours 45 minutes to complete. This moderate hike circumnavigates both Hopewell and Scotts Run lakes.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Hopewell Lake Loop, an easy 2.3 miles (3.7 km) path. The trail follows the shoreline of the lake with minimal elevation gain.
- Local hikers also love the Turtle Trail, a 5.7 miles (9.1 km) trail leading through woodlands, often completed in about 2 hours 38 minutes.
- Hiking around Elverson is defined by dense woodlands, lakeside paths, and rolling hills. The trail network provides options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more moderate day hikes.
- The routes in Elverson are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 190 hikers have used komoot to explore Elverson's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
4.5
(2)
12
hikers
9.11km
02:39
220m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.0
(1)
5
hikers
11.5km
03:10
190m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
hikers
18.4km
05:11
380m
380m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(6)
31
hikers
9.81km
02:48
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
12
hikers
3.72km
00:57
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Civilian Conservation Corps built the Hopewell Dam in the 1930s, which damns French Creek to create a 68-acre warm-water lake. The fish that call this lake home are bass, panfish, chain pickerel, northern pike, muskellunge, and walleye, and you can find anglers ice fishing in colder months.
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A beautiful open meadow lined with tall mixed trees, perfect for cycling on. There are also picnic benches if you'd like to take a break.
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French Creek State Park is a 7,730-acre park filled with forests, lakes, and wetlands. This is the largest patch of contiguous forest between Washington D.C. and New York City.
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This dam is 625 feet in length with a maximum height of 34 feet and was created for recreational purposes to form Scotts Run Lake. This area offers a nice, peaceful view of the water with some scenic surroundings.
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One of the two lakes within French Creek State Park. There are benches and picnic areas around the lake, so there are many comfortable places to take a break and relax.
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This spot has a good view of the scenic man-made waterfall created by the dam.
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Scotts Run Lake is a 22 acre lake in French Creek State Park. It is a beautiful lake surrounded by woodlands. It is a great stop for a relaxing break next to the lake. It is also a popular fishing spot.
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One of the two lakes within French Creek State Park. There are benches and picnic areas around the lake, so there are many comfortable places to take a break and relax.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Elverson suitable for families and children?
Yes, the area offers several easy hikes perfect for families. A great option is the Hopewell Lake Loop – French Creek State Park, which is a relatively flat 2.3-mile (3.7 km) path around the lake. The trails at Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site also provide an easy walk combined with interesting historical exhibits.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Most trails in the Elverson area, particularly within French Creek State Park and Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, are dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Always be sure to bring water for your pet and clean up after them.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls near Elverson?
Yes, you can see a waterfall on hikes that pass by the Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. The spillway from Hopewell Lake creates a scenic waterfall, which is a popular feature for visitors exploring the trails connecting the historic site and French Creek State Park.
What are some of the most popular places to hike around Elverson?
Hikers in the area have several highly-regarded options. The main hub is French Creek State Park, offering over 35 miles of trails through forests and around lakes. Adjoining it is the Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, which mixes easy trails with American history.
Other local favorites include Natural Lands' Crow's Nest Preserve, known for its gorgeous views and well-maintained paths, and the unique boulder fields at Saint Peters Village Hiking Trails.
I'm looking for a more challenging day hike. What do you recommend?
For a more strenuous hike, consider the Six Penny Trail loop. This 7.3-mile (11.8 km) route takes you through the deeper woodlands of French Creek State Park and includes more significant elevation changes than the lakeside paths, offering a good workout.
What is the terrain like on the trails?
The terrain around Elverson is quite varied. You'll find everything from flat, easy paths around the lakes to rocky, hilly, and steep sections in the forested parts of French Creek State Park. Many trails wind through the dense Hopewell Big Woods, offering a classic Pennsylvania woodland hiking experience.
How many hiking trails are there in the Elverson area?
There are over 30 marked hiking trails around Elverson, primarily concentrated within French Creek State Park and the adjoining Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. These range from short, easy loops to more moderate day hikes.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails near Elverson?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the beautiful, dense forests of the Hopewell Big Woods, the scenic views across Hopewell and Scotts Run lakes, and the unique opportunity to combine a nature walk with a visit to the historic Hopewell Furnace.
Are there good opportunities for bird watching?
Absolutely. The Hopewell Big Woods, which encompasses French Creek State Park, is the largest contiguous forest in southeastern Pennsylvania and a rich habitat for wildlife. The diverse landscape of forests, lakes, and wetlands attracts a wide variety of bird species, making it an excellent destination for bird watchers.
Where can I park to access the trails?
Both French Creek State Park and Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site have multiple designated parking areas. For trails around the lakes or starting near the historic village, you will find well-marked lots. It's best to arrive early on weekends, as popular trailheads can fill up quickly.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, many of the most popular hikes are loops. For a moderate circular route, the Scotts Run Lake Loop is a great choice. It's a 6.1-mile (9.8 km) trail that offers a comprehensive tour of one of the park's beautiful lakes with some moderate hills.
What should I know about hiking in French Creek State Park?
French Creek State Park has over 35 miles of trails. The main trails, like the Boone, Lenape, and Mill Creek trails, are marked with different colored blazes. It's a good idea to have a map, as many trails intersect. For official trail information and maps, you can check the park's official hiking page.
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