Wildwood Way and Towpath Trail Loop

This loop is approximately 3.1 miles (5.1 km) long and generally takes about 1 hour and 19 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. This duration can vary depending on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or observe wildlife.

Yes, much of the loop is considered easy and suitable for beginners and families. The Towpath Trail section is generally level. While the Wildwood Way portion has some moderate hills, the overall difficulty is rated as easy. Many sections, especially paved parts and boardwalks, are ADA accessible, though some hills might require assistance.

Parking is available at Wildwood Park, which is located near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The Benjamin Olewine III Nature Center within the park serves as a good starting point and offers parking facilities.

Yes, Wildwood Park is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to maintain the park's natural beauty for all visitors.

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring offers migrating birds and fresh foliage, while fall provides beautiful colors. Summer is great for wildlife viewing, and winter allows for activities like cross-country skiing. For birdwatching, spring is particularly good for warblers, and the marshy areas are active with wetland birds throughout warmer months.

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access Wildwood Park or hike the Wildwood Way and Towpath Trail Loop. It is part of the public Capital Area Greenbelt.

The loop features varied terrain. The Wildwood Way section is primarily blacktop with some gravel. The Towpath Trail consists of a mix of soil with wood chips or gravel. You'll also encounter wooden boardwalks, such as the Delta Boardwalk, which traverse marshy and wet woodland areas.

Wildwood Park is rich in wildlife. You might spot wetland birds, various songbirds, turtles basking on logs, deer, raccoons, and foxes. The marsh and wet woodlands are significant nesting areas for birds like Canada geese, ducks, and red-winged blackbirds. The central lake is often home to waterfowl.

Along the loop, you can visit the Benjamin Olewine III Nature Center, which offers educational exhibits. The Towpath Trail follows the historic Pennsylvania Canal, with remnants visible. Keep an eye out for unique custom-created sculptures and artwork, sometimes referred to as 'Emerald City' pieces, scattered throughout the park.

Yes, the route is part of the larger Capital Area Greenbelt and intersects with several other paths within Wildwood Park. Official trails along this route include sections of the Wildwood Way Trail, Towpath Trail, East Shore Trail, Fox Run Trail, and the Delta Boardwalk.

Yes, while the loop is popular for biking, some boardwalk sections, particularly the Delta Boardwalk, are designated for pedestrians only. Cyclists are required to walk their bicycles through these areas to ensure safety for all users.