The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Hills Creek State Park

Our guide features 3 family-friendly hiking routes in Hills Creek State Park, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. These trails are perfect for exploring the park's natural beauty with children.

For an easy and scenic walk, consider the Hills Creek Lake loop. This route is just under 5 km (3 miles) with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed stroll around the beautiful lake.

Yes, several trails offer a loop experience, which is great for families as you don't retrace your steps. The Hills Creek Lake loop is a popular choice, offering continuous views around the water. Another option is the C. Lynn Keller Trail loop, which provides a slightly longer, yet still easy, circular route.

Hills Creek State Park is rich in wildlife. Along the trails, especially near the lake, you might spot an active beaver colony, various waterfowl like osprey, loons, and great blue herons, and even bald eagles. On land, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and muskrats are common sightings, offering exciting moments for children.

The park is beautiful year-round, but autumn is particularly stunning when the surrounding hillsides transform into a vibrant display of fall colors. Spring and early summer also offer pleasant temperatures and lush greenery, making them excellent times for family hikes before the peak summer heat.

While the park is situated in a valley, offering unique views looking up at the surrounding hills, the Lakeside Trail (part of the Hills Creek Lake loop) occasionally provides elevated perspectives of Hills Creek Lake, which can be exciting for children to see the water from above.

The komoot community highly rates the trails in Hills Creek State Park, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's tranquil atmosphere, the beauty of Hills Creek Lake, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family outings.

For families with older children or those seeking a bit more of a challenge, the Bald Hill Loop via C. Lynn Keller Trail is a moderate 8.7 km (5.4 miles) route with more significant elevation gain. It offers a rewarding experience for more adventurous families.

Yes, Hills Creek State Park provides ample parking facilities. You'll find designated parking areas conveniently located near the main trailheads and park amenities, making access to the family-friendly routes straightforward.

Absolutely! Hills Creek State Park offers a wide array of activities beyond hiking. Families can enjoy swimming at the sandy beach, boating on Hills Creek Lake, picnicking, and fishing. The park also hosts environmental education programs, enriching the outdoor experience for all ages. For more details on park facilities, visit the official Pennsylvania State Parks website.

While the main Lakeside Trail can be popular, exploring trails like the Yellow Birch Trail or Tosh Yours Trail (each about one mile) might offer a quieter experience, especially during off-peak hours. These shorter paths are also excellent for younger children.