A Rail Trail Runs Through This Pennsylvania Town And It's The Ultimate Outdoor Playground
By Beth Price-Williams|Published July 06, 2023
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Pennsylvania’s rich railroad history means we have some pretty amazing places to explore in the 21st century. Many of the former railroad lines have been transformed into rail trails, scenic paths that allow us to walk, hike, or bike. Some are short; some are long, but all offer a unique glimpse at the Pennsylvania landscape. When you follow this rail trail in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, you might also want to explore beyond the trail.
The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail wanders through Lebanon County, traveling from Colebrook to Lebanon. Along the way, it also passes through Mt. Gretna and Cornwall.
This is one of those rather short rail trails, tallying just over 14 miles, making it easily doable in less than five hours. You don’t have to hike, bike, or ride your horse along the whole trail, though.
The flat trail features plenty of shaded areas, although you’ll still want to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Wear a pair of comfy shoes or hiking boots, too.
Whether you start or end in Lebanon, carve out some time to explore the outdoor areas in this bustling town. Travel right outside of the city limits, for example, to Stoevers Dam Park.
The 153-acre Pennsylvania park offers something for everyone, from canoeing on the 23.5-acre lake to wildlife watching. Bring your camera because you’re likely to see some of the park’s residents – rabbits, grey-horned owls, and deer among them.
Six miles from the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail and 15 miles from Lebanon, Swatara State Park is an outdoor playground all on its own. Spanning 3,515 acres, the Pennsylvania state park boasts a ton of activities all year round.
Have you been on this rail trail in Lebanon, Pennsylvania? Did you hike the whole trail? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! If you prefer to see the scenery behind the wheel, follow this scenic drive through Lebanon, Pennsylvania.
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