Conestoga Trail
The “up-close and personal” hike along the Conestoga Trail System through the panoramic beauty of Pennsylvania Dutch Country is far better than a harried auto tour. The approximately 67 miles, orange-blazed Conestoga Trail bisects Lancaster County from north to south. The northern terminus is at the intersection of the Horse-Shoe Trail and US 322, 4 miles west of Brickerville. The Conestoga Trail then follows Hammer, Cocalico, Conestoga, and Pequea Creeks to the Susquehanna River. It continues to Lock 12 in York County, connecting with the Mason-Dixon Trail near PA 74.
The trail starts in wooded rolling hills in the north, but it soon gives way to the rich farm meadows of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The Conestoga Trail passes five covered bridges, numerous old mills, and historic houses. You will encounter some rural road walking in the central section before reaching Lancaster County’s Central Park. The southern 15 miles are hilly, with vistas overlooking the Susquehanna River. Along the gorge rim of Lake Aldred, the trail is within Pequea Creek Recreation Area.
Camping is permitted only at Central Park and Pequea Family Campground. The Conestoga Trail System crosses much private property, and continued permission to cross will depend on respectful hiker behavior.
For maps and further information, contact:
Lancaster Hiking Club
P.O. Box 7922
Lancaster, PA 17604
Other resources:
►Lancaster Hiking Club
The trail starts in wooded rolling hills in the north, but it soon gives way to the rich farm meadows of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The Conestoga Trail passes five covered bridges, numerous old mills, and historic houses. You will encounter some rural road walking in the central section before reaching Lancaster County’s Central Park. The southern 15 miles are hilly, with vistas overlooking the Susquehanna River. Along the gorge rim of Lake Aldred, the trail is within Pequea Creek Recreation Area.
Camping is permitted only at Central Park and Pequea Family Campground. The Conestoga Trail System crosses much private property, and continued permission to cross will depend on respectful hiker behavior.
For maps and further information, contact:
Lancaster Hiking Club
P.O. Box 7922
Lancaster, PA 17604
Other resources:
►Lancaster Hiking Club