We’ve all heard that tattered but true saying, “Stop and smell the flowers.” When was the last time you actually did that? A journey along one of the best wildflower hikes in Pennsylvania offers the opportunity to breathe in the fresh air, smell the colorful wildflowers, and reconnect with nature. While the trail is open all year, make sure you plan a visit when the flowers begin to blossom.

Considered by many locals a hidden gem, Stroud Preserve in West Chester encompasses 571 gorgeous acres, brimming with such natural beauty as grasslands, woodlands, and wildflowers.
All Trails/Ellen Peters
The preserve has a sizeable parking lot, which can get full. However, even when the trails are busy, you’ll still be able to enjoy the quiet and even some solitude.
One of the best ways to explore this natural wonder in Pennsylvania is on the Stroud Preserve Red Trail, a 4.1-mile trail that usually takes around 90 minutes to complete.
All Trails/Andy Boruta
This is one of the best PA wildflower hikes in Pennsylvania. Add it to your hiking bucket list.
However, the picturesque path scores a moderate rating, predominately due to the terrain, which can get quite muddy. The trail is popular with hikers and horseback riders, so be prepared for some muddy holes along the way.
All Trails/Amy Smith
There's no better time than spring and summer to admire the wildflowers in Pennsylvania.
Popular with hikers with children and dogs, the trail scores top marks from visitors for being well-maintained. Even though the red trail is marked as moderate, numerous hikers label it family and kid-friendly.
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If you're going specifically to see the PA wildflowers, make sure you bring your camera along. An abundance of photo opportunities awaits around every turn.

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While a visit in all seasons – you can even go snowshoeing in the winter – is a must, make sure you visit during the warmer months, so you can admire the spectacular array of wildflowers.
All Trails/Josh Edwards
Spring months are typically the wettest at the preserve, so wear boots or shoes you don’t mind getting wet and dirty.
The terrain varies from rolling hills and open fields to wooded areas, offering enough of a change to keep things interesting. You might even spot wildlife, like deer, along the way.
All Trails/M. Bower
When you need a breather, relax on a bench that boasts spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
All Trails/Ellen Peters
Learn more on the official website of Stroud Preserve.
All Trails/Melissa Jenkins

Have you followed this trail in Pennsylvania? Do you think it’s one of the best wildflower hikes in Pennsylvania? Share your experience (and any advice you might have for other hikers) in the comments. If you’re up for an adventure that includes a stop at Stroud Preserve, set off on this scenic drive in Pennsylvania.

Find more of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania on All Trails.

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Hiking In Pennsylvania

Beth Price-Williams | March 09, 2024

What are some of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania?

Admire the wildflowers in Pennsylvania on this little-known trail, just one of nearly 650 hiking trails that span 12,000 miles. Here are more of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania:

  • Marvel at 21 named waterfalls along the epic Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park. The 7.2-mile trail is challenging, but it’s well worth it to see the waterfalls, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls.
  • If you’re all about chasing waterfalls, set off on the 1.8-mile Ferncliff Trail that leads to stunning views of Ohiopyle Falls. (You don’t have to hike to see the cascade, though. Park in the lot and take a short stroll to the viewing area.)
  • The half-mile Chickies Rock Overlook Trail in West Hempfield Township boasts awe-inspiring views of the Susquehanna River. It scores an easy rating and is particularly popular with families with little ones.
  • Bring the whole family, including the kiddos, along the one-mile Parker Dam Boardwalk Trail at Parker Dam State Park.

What are some of the best state parks in Pennsylvania for hiking?

While we can find hikes all over the state, some of the best meander through the state parks in Pennsylvania. Here are some of the best state parks in Pennsylvania for hiking:

  • Leonard Harrison State Park
  • Salt Springs State Park
  • Hickory Run State Park
  • Ohiopyle State Park
  • Worlds End State Park

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Featured Addresses
Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve, 454 N Creek Rd, West Chester, PA 19382, USA