Lancaster County’s Amazing Rail Trails
Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, goes beyond its picturesque farmland and charming towns; it is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts owing to its extensive network of regional trails. These trails, linking town to town and borough to borough, are the result of years of local collaboration and investment. Personally experiencing the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, I came to understand the importance of these pathways in providing safe spaces for exercise and recreation.
Let's delve into some of Lancaster County's exceptional rail trails.
Conewago Recreation Trail
Spanning 5.5 miles northwest of Elizabethtown, this former railroad turned trail traverses predominantly agricultural landscapes. With plans to extend southwest to the Susquehanna River near Falmouth, it promises to become an integral link to the Northwest River Trail.
Lancaster Junction Trail
Meandering 2.3 miles north of Landisville, this picturesque trail follows the serene path of Chiques Creek, offering a tranquil escape. Future extensions could further enhance its accessibility and connectivity, linking it to neighboring trails like the Swarr Run Greenway.
Warwick to Ephrata Rail Trail
Stretching 7.1 miles from Lititz to Ephrata Borough, this trail, opened in 2018, celebrates connectivity, linking three vibrant towns and showcasing Lancaster's iconic farm vistas. With proposed extensions, its reach and allure are set to expand even further.
Northwest River Trail
Snaking along the Susquehanna from Columbia to Falmouth, this 14-mile paved trail traces the region's rich history, passing by historic landmarks and offering scenic dining options. Plans to connect it with other trails ensure its place as a cornerstone of Lancaster's trail network.
Enola Low Grade Trail
With its stunning vistas of the Conestoga River and Susquehanna River, the Enola Low Grade Trail stands as the longest in the county at 29 miles, tracing the path of the former Atglen and Susquehanna Branch of the Pennsylvania Railroad.
Lancaster Heritage Pathway/Goat Path:
Envisioned as a 14-mile trail combining on-road and off-road facilities, this proposed project seeks to breathe new life into abandoned routes like the Goat Path. With community collaboration driving its progress, it represents the next frontier in Lancaster's trail development.
Each trail tells a story, weaving together the past, present, and future of our beloved county. So lace up your shoes, pump up your tires, and get on the amazing rail trails of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Adventure awaits!
