Explore the best rated trails in Mifflintown, PA. Whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the Pine Creek Rail Trail and Buffalo Flat Trail. With more than 27 trails covering 279 miles you’re bound to find a perfect trail for you. Click on any trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
_125216_st.jpg)
_131019_st.jpg)
Northwest Lancaster County River Trail stretches nearly 13 miles along the east bank of the Susquehanna River between Falmouth (near the Dauphin County line) and Columbia. Along the way, you can...
Swatara Creek runs through the vast woodlands of Swatara State Park in eastern Pennsylvania. Bear Hole Trail traces the eastern side of the waterway, while the Swatara Rail-Trail runs along the other...
Serene year-round, the Bellefonte Central Rail Trail (BCRT) in central Pennsylvania runs along 1.3 miles of the old Buffalo Run, Bellefonte and Bald Eagle Railroad corridor. The original 19-mile line...
The short, tranquil LeTort Spring Run Nature Trail follows its namesake creek closely, LeTort Spring Run, through a mix of deciduous trees and lowland marshes bristling with tall grasses and cattails....
Currently, 9 miles of the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail are complete. The trail runs between Lewisburg and Mifflinburg, and interpretive signs relate the region's history. The trail is mostly paved at...
The Susquehanna River Walk follows the north and south shores of the river's West Branch, including two bridge crossings at Market Street and Maynard Street. The route, much of which was built on top...
The Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail, named for a local resident who died in a bicycling accident, offers a safe paved route through Derry and nearby communities. It begins in a rural area just south...
This gently winding trail in Pine Grove Furnace State Park passes along the shores of two lakes and through the woodlands of Michaux State Forest. Pine Grove Furnace began operating in 1764 to take...
The Chambersburg Rail Trail is a 1.2 mile paved urban trail that connects neighborhoods just a few blocks west of the community's central business district. Starting at South Street, the trail...
Lykens Valley Rail Trail is nearly half-way complete with 9 miles of trail open out of 20 miles planned. Those 9 miles are available in three disconnected segments. In Millersburg, a 0.4-mile segment...
Bald Eagle Valley Trail, formerly known as the Clinton County Rail Trail, offers a pleasant crushed-stone pathway along scenic Bald Eagle Creek and the West Branch Susquehanna River. As you pedal or...
The discovery of anthracite coal in the Tremont area of Pennsylvania shaped commerce and development well into the 1800s. The Union Canal was constructed in the 1820s to connect the Schuylkill and...
In a pretty valley between the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and Bald Eagle Mountain, the Lycoming Creek Bikeway is a fitting hometown asset. Tourists are not flocking to it, but the local...
While the Lebanon Valley might be best known for its chocolate and distinctive bologna, iron ore is what put the region on the map in the 1700s. The 18-mile Lebanon Valley Rail-Trail—and the...
The Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail, named for a local resident who died in a bicycling accident, offers a safe paved route through Derry and nearby communities. It begins in a rural area just south...
Coordinated by the Snow Shoe Rails to Trails Association (SSRTA), the Snow Shoe Trail caters primarily to ATV and off-road motorcycle enthusiasts. It is open to other users as well, but the rough...
Serene year-round, the Bellefonte Central Rail Trail (BCRT) in central Pennsylvania runs along 1.3 miles of the old Buffalo Run, Bellefonte and Bald Eagle Railroad corridor. The original 19-mile line...
_144887_sc.jpg)
Though little-known compared to other popular rail-trails in Pennsylvania, the Penns Creek Path is worth the effort of visiting for a scenic bike ride or hike in the forest. Pretty in all seasons, it...
Every year, tens of thousands of people take to the Capital Area Greenbelt looping around Harrisburg to play, exercise, and commute. The greenway completely encircles Pennsylvania’s capital city as it...
Note: During hunting season, Pennsylvania Game Lands Regulations require ALL non-hunters present on game lands between November 15 and December 15 (excluding Sundays) to wear a minimum of 250 square...
Swatara Creek runs through the vast woodlands of Swatara State Park in eastern Pennsylvania. Bear Hole Trail traces the eastern side of the waterway, while the Swatara Rail-Trail runs along the other...
This gently winding trail in Pine Grove Furnace State Park passes along the shores of two lakes and through the woodlands of Michaux State Forest. Pine Grove Furnace began operating in 1764 to take...
One of the premier rail-trails in the Northeast, the Pine Creek Rail Trail in Pine Creek Gorge offers travelers a spectacular 62-mile journey through the area commonly referred to as the Grand Canyon...
The Lower Trail ranks high on the list of many Central Pennsylvania residents when they’re searching for a remote path with a woodsy feel. The Lower (rhymes with flower, and named in memory of trail...
Lumber mills frequently set up tram cars running on a set of tracks to carry cut timbers from the steep hillsides. The Old Tram Trail is exactly that and has become a short bit of single track to...
The discovery of anthracite coal in the Tremont area of Pennsylvania shaped commerce and development well into the 1800s. The Union Canal was constructed in the 1820s to connect the Schuylkill and...
_131019_sc.jpg)
Included in the seven-mile network of trails in Little Buffalo State Park are two small sections of rail-trail. Together they are called the Newport and Sherman's Valley Railroad Trace. The...
_125216_sc.jpg)
The Iron Horse Trail follows two abandoned rail beds: the Path Valley Railroad and the Perry Lumber Company Railroad. Originally, the Path Valley Railroad was going to be an extension for the Newport...
The short, tranquil LeTort Spring Run Nature Trail follows its namesake creek closely, LeTort Spring Run, through a mix of deciduous trees and lowland marshes bristling with tall grasses and cattails....
In a pretty valley between the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and Bald Eagle Mountain, the Lycoming Creek Bikeway is a fitting hometown asset. Tourists are not flocking to it, but the local...
Lykens Valley Rail Trail is nearly half-way complete with 9 miles of trail open out of 20 miles planned. Those 9 miles are available in three disconnected segments. In Millersburg, a 0.4-mile segment...
Currently, 9 miles of the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail are complete. The trail runs between Lewisburg and Mifflinburg, and interpretive signs relate the region's history. The trail is mostly paved at...
Although the J. Manley Robbins Trail spans only 2.5 miles, its rich history and natural beauty make a stop in the rural Pennsylvania borough of Danville worthwhile. The rustic trail—forming a loop of...
Lumber mills frequently set up tram cars running on a set of tracks to carry cut timbers from the steep hillsides. The Old Tram Trail is exactly that and has become a short bit of single track to...
Note: During hunting season, Pennsylvania Game Lands Regulations require ALL non-hunters present on game lands between November 15 and December 15 (excluding Sundays) to wear a minimum of 250 square...
The Chambersburg Rail Trail is a 1.2 mile paved urban trail that connects neighborhoods just a few blocks west of the community's central business district. Starting at South Street, the trail...
One of the premier rail-trails in the Northeast, the Pine Creek Rail Trail in Pine Creek Gorge offers travelers a spectacular 62-mile journey through the area commonly referred to as the Grand Canyon...
Coordinated by the Snow Shoe Rails to Trails Association (SSRTA), the Snow Shoe Trail caters primarily to ATV and off-road motorcycle enthusiasts. It is open to other users as well, but the rough...
While the Lebanon Valley might be best known for its chocolate and distinctive bologna, iron ore is what put the region on the map in the 1700s. The 18-mile Lebanon Valley Rail-Trail—and the...
The Cumberland Valley Rail Trail rolls 13.7 miles through a bucolic valley that’s hemmed in by the Blue and South Mountains in south-central Pennsylvania. Running from Shippensburg to east of...
The short, tranquil LeTort Spring Run Nature Trail follows its namesake creek closely, LeTort Spring Run, through a mix of deciduous trees and lowland marshes bristling with tall grasses and cattails....
This gently winding trail in Pine Grove Furnace State Park passes along the shores of two lakes and through the woodlands of Michaux State Forest. Pine Grove Furnace began operating in 1764 to take...
In a pretty valley between the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and Bald Eagle Mountain, the Lycoming Creek Bikeway is a fitting hometown asset. Tourists are not flocking to it, but the local...
The Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail, named for a local resident who died in a bicycling accident, offers a safe paved route through Derry and nearby communities. It begins in a rural area just south...
The Susquehanna River Walk follows the north and south shores of the river's West Branch, including two bridge crossings at Market Street and Maynard Street. The route, much of which was built on top...
Though little-known compared to other popular rail-trails in Pennsylvania, the Penns Creek Path is worth the effort of visiting for a scenic bike ride or hike in the forest. Pretty in all seasons, it...
Bald Eagle Valley Trail, formerly known as the Clinton County Rail Trail, offers a pleasant crushed-stone pathway along scenic Bald Eagle Creek and the West Branch Susquehanna River. As you pedal or...
Farms and pastures surround the Conewago Recreation Trail, but it was the discovery and mining of iron ore that led to the development of the railroad that eventually resulted in this trail. The path...
Lykens Valley Rail Trail is nearly half-way complete with 9 miles of trail open out of 20 miles planned. Those 9 miles are available in three disconnected segments. In Millersburg, a 0.4-mile segment...
Currently, 9 miles of the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail are complete. The trail runs between Lewisburg and Mifflinburg, and interpretive signs relate the region's history. The trail is mostly paved at...
Serene year-round, the Bellefonte Central Rail Trail (BCRT) in central Pennsylvania runs along 1.3 miles of the old Buffalo Run, Bellefonte and Bald Eagle Railroad corridor. The original 19-mile line...
Although the J. Manley Robbins Trail spans only 2.5 miles, its rich history and natural beauty make a stop in the rural Pennsylvania borough of Danville worthwhile. The rustic trail—forming a loop of...
As of May 18, 2019, trail appears to still end at Rt 422 in Lebanon. There was a sign on the North side of 422 saying "trail ends" or similar.
Hence, the posted photo of a white bridge:
"Lebanon Valley Rail Trail
This tunnel carries the Jonestown segment of the trail under Route 22. As of 2018, this is the north end of the trail. No connection to the road has yet been built.
appears to be in error as of this date, as there is not yet a clear path to continue north of Rt 422. Perhaps the trail does begin again somewhere north of Rt 422, but it wasn't obvious to me from the location of the intersection of the trail and Rt 422.
I hope this helps.
This is a fantastic trail with great scenery along the way. But be vigilant in downtown Columbia!
We have done two sections: 1. starting in Columbia and going north through Marietta and 2. starting in Bainbridge and going south to the Shock's Mill Bridge. Both sections are mostly flat (a few whoopdee do up and downs, but no sustained climbing). Much of it is shaded and it is mostly paved.
Columbia - Marietta (8.5 miles round trip):
The only reason I detracted a star from my review is because of the short section going through Columbia (if starting/ending at the Visitor's Center). It is on a narrow sidewalk paralleling PA 441, which is a heavily traveled road with tractor trailers, dump trucks, and of course cars. There is no barrier or separator. You have to cross 441 twice, and also cross Bridge Street. This half-mile section is treacherous for kids and nerve-wracking for parents. I thank God that my son escaped unscathed after accidentally rolling over the curb and nearly being hit by a car.
Heading north, once out of the tumult of town, you head under the rte 30 bridge and into the good stuff. On your right, the remains of several iron operations remain visible. Interpretive signs are at a few. Chickies tunnel is short, but exciting. The Chickies rock outcropping itself is quite striking. There are also a few stream crossings before coming up on Marietta.
There is some misinformation (or more accurately, outdated information) regarding the Marietta section, with many having stated that you have to ride through the town. The trail actually diverges--with an option to go through town and an option to remain on the rail trail--both marked with white painted bicycles on the street. If travelling north, you only need to go two blocks on the Marietta streets (which are very wide, pleasant, and lightly traveled) before you can head back down to the paved trail along the river. At the intersection of Front and Bank St, across from the Front St. Park, go left up over the railroad tracks and it will take you back to the paved trail. That said the Marietta streets were very accommodating and scenic with rows of historic homes, and several places to stop for food or drink. There were many access points to and from the rail trail along the Marietta section.
Bainbridge to Shock's Mill (about 6.5 miles round trip):
Lots to see along this section as well. A bald eagle lookout, the White Cliffs of Conoy, small streams, industrial ruins, and of course the awe-inspiring Shock's Mill bridge. There are benches on the north side of Shock's Mill bridge--a great spot to stop for a snack with kids. As others have noted, be mindful that the trail near the bridge can flood, and even if not under water, several inches of slippery mud can remain after the water recedes.
I have read mixed information about the section north of Bainbridge (Falmouth to Bainbridge). When we went last year, the section north of Bainbridge disintegrates before abruptly ending about 1/2 mile north of Bainbridge.
Rode this 11 mile trail out and back with a friend on a warmer than usual January day. Started in Columbia and rode to Bainbridge. Trail is a mix of paved sections with smooth, compact gravel with some riding on town streets.
Free parking at the Columbia River Park with a short 1/4 mile ride along the street to the beginning of the trail, which takes into historic Marietta. The trail disconnects here and you ride along the streets in Marietta which offers some very nice historic buildings to see along the way. There is signage pointing you in the right direction through town, but you may want to map out your route as well.
Once outside of Marietta, the trail opens up through some farm land before coming right up to the river (great photo op). CAUTION: If the river is high, this section may be flooded. I'm not aware of a detour around it. From here, it's a few more miles to Koser Park in Bainbridge where the trail ends.
Ahh, spring - the time of year I wonder, how far will I really be able to ride from Columbia today? If the Susquehanna is pretty well over the riverbank at Marietta, then Schock's Mill underpass will be flooded too. That makes it about 9 miles in length, not 11 (those who read the reviews know the last 3 miles are only for hikers and extreme bikers). I wanted to share a tidbit that another rider offered while we navigated the inch or so of muddy water covering the lower end of the walkway, which quickly deepened to a 6 inch deep fast flow on the upside - and both decided it wasn't worth the risk. He said when the river hits 42 feet, it overflows the walkway. NOAA (water.weather.gov) shows it at 42.5 feet on 3/24. Thank you, kind sir! Also, could someone please bring a chainsaw for that huge tree blocking the Charles Greenway? Or at least some orange spray paint? I was so in the zone I nearly plowed right into it...
Short 1-1/2 miles but sweet. Chambersburg did a great job on this trail with pedestrian warning lights on crossovers. Dog-friendly with several bag stations and disposal cans. A portion of the trail follows the creek for a scenic and serene walk. Bike jumps are available but far enough off of the trail was not to interfere with walkers, joggers and city bikers. Several exits to traverse into town and experience some great bistros and shops.
Seriously, I think of PA as God's model for Heaven. And this trail may be the most beautiful part of heaven. I couldn't stop raving about it in my head for the first 11 miles or so, and then only stopped because I was beginning to realize what I was in for. It's a 25 mile trail, and a 50 mile out-and-back was more than I was really ready for. Thank goodness I turned around at the parking area at mile 17. The last 5 miles of the 34 total was all will, no skill. But even then I was in awe of the beauty. I camped in one of the camping cottages at Cowan's Gap, and it made for a beautiful weekend. I highly recommend it!
The paved trails through the woods are great, but if run in the parts downtown on front street you have to seriously watch out you dont fall into a pothole. Really needs updating before someone gets hurt
Great view of Pine Creek and the mountains. Rode this trail in the summer and in the fall. This is a must do trail for anyone who loves nature.
I was looking at the map of the trail and saw a short section of trail that I was never on between N. 25th Street and Long Lane, just north of where the main section of the trail ends (at US 422 aka Ben Franklin Hwy). I drove there to discover that it is currently under construction, large dump trucks and front end loaders moving about. Look forward to checking it out in the spring.
I wish the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail were much longer. Being it's only an 18-mile round trip ride, it's hard to justify driving over 90 minutes to get here. That said, I do ride this trail at least twice a year. The BVRT is a flat, smooth compact gravel trail with an equal portions of shade and open riding, good for all riders, all styles of bikes. In Mifflinburg, you've got the Rusty Rail Brewing Company & Restaurant at the end of the trail. I recommend making a reservation and head over to the brewery for a bite to eat and a cold refreshment after the ride.
Only surpassed by the GAP trail, Pine Creek is the 2nd best rail trails in PA (IMHO). I've ridden it numerous times. It's smooth, compact gravel makes it enjoyable for all bike types, all riders. This 63 mile trail is best described by dividing it into 2 sections. North of Slate Run and Sorth of Slate Run. Starting at the northern-most end, it's about 25 miles to teh village of Blackwell. This section is mostly open with plenty of scenery. Be sure to bring extra water as there are no places to stop to refill until and limited restrooms along this section. From Blackwell, south you'll begin to ride through small villages that offer opportunities for food and water. Cedar Run is 5 miles away and offers a general store and a small hotel/B&B, another 5 - 5 1/2 miles and your at Slate Run, with another general store for food and refreshments along with a hotel/B&B/Restaurant. From Slate Run, it's about another 26 miles to the end of the trail in Jersey Shore. This section is mostly shaded with numerous restrooms along the way and another spot for food and water.
From the trail head at the north, it's about a 4 1/2 mile bike ride along the road into Wellsboro and construction has begun to extend the trail into town - I'm not sure when completion is expected.
Wellsboro offers additional lodging and food.. highly recommended to stay in Wellsboro.
Get Your 2018 RTC TrailNation Jersey!
Download the TrailLink mobile app and take TrailLink with you!
Donate and Get a FREE 2018 RTC Guidebook!
TrailLink is a free service provided by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (a non-profit) and we need your support!
Map Search
_144887_st.jpg)
