Day Trips from Reading
← All Reading day tripsDay Trips from Reading: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Reading, 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 Reading
The Pinnacle Overlook
Holtwood, PA 17532
Just 1 hr 10 min from Reading, 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 1 hr 32 min from Reading, 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 45 min from Reading, 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.
Dunnfield Creek Natural Area trailhead
9 N 3rd St, Stroudsburg
Just 1 hr 38 min from Reading, rated 4.8 stars by 234 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Natural Lands' Crow's Nest Preserve
Elverson, PA 19520
Just 30 min from Reading, 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.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Just 2 hrs 48 min from Reading, rated 4.8 stars by 2,432 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 1 hr 12 min from Reading, 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 59 min from Reading, 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 20 min from Reading, 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.
Natural Lands' ChesLen Preserve
Coatesville, PA 19320
Just 1 hr from Reading, rated 4.8 stars by 480 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.
Maurice River Bluffs Preserve
Millville, NJ 08332
Just 1 hr 58 min from Reading, rated 4.8 stars by 681 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 54 min from Reading, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Reading
What are the best hiking trails near Reading, PA?
The best hikes near Reading 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 Reading?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Reading 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 Reading?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Reading 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 Reading?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Reading. 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?
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