Day Trips from Lancaster
← All Lancaster day tripsDay Trips from Lancaster: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Lancaster, PA. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Lancaster
The Pinnacle Overlook
Holtwood, PA 17532
Just 32 min from Lancaster, rated 4.9 stars by 1,147 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lehigh Gorge State Park - Rockport Access
Weatherly, PA 18255
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Lancaster, rated 4.8 stars by 2,524 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
Kempton, PA 19529
Just 1 hr 14 min from Lancaster, rated 4.8 stars by 1,958 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Natural Lands' Crow's Nest Preserve
Elverson, PA 19520
Just 51 min from Lancaster, rated 4.8 stars by 162 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ferncliff Wildlife & Wildflower Preserve
Drumore, PA 17518
Just 33 min from Lancaster, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Trout Run Nature Preserve
Pequea, PA 17565
Just 20 min from Lancaster, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
White Clay Creek Preserve
Landenberg, PA 19350
Just 1 hr 6 min from Lancaster, rated 4.8 stars by 190 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pennypack Ecological Restoration Trust
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Just 1 hr 25 min from Lancaster, rated 4.8 stars by 683 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Susquehannock State Park
Drumore, PA 17518
Just 32 min from Lancaster, rated 4.8 stars by 797 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ricketts Glen State Park
Benton, PA 17814
Just 2 hrs 37 min from Lancaster, rated 4.8 stars by 5,699 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve
West Chester, PA 19382
Just 1 hr 3 min from Lancaster, rated 4.8 stars by 648 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Just 54 min from Lancaster, rated 4.7 stars by 604 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Lancaster
What are the best hiking trails near Lancaster, PA?
The best hikes near Lancaster range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Lancaster?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Lancaster offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Lancaster?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Lancaster are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Lancaster?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Lancaster. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me