The best walks and hikes in Snyder County

The Swift Run Trail, combined with Kerb Gap and Thick Mountain Trail, offers a captivating moderate hike through the Snyder-Middleswarth Natural Area. This 4.4-mile (7.1 km) loop, with its 739 feet (225 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete. You'll journey from the tranquil banks of Swift Run, passing ancient hemlock trees and small waterfalls, to the higher elevations of Thick Mountain, where forests of pine, laurel, and rhododendron create a diverse landscape.

To plan your visit, head to the Snyder-Middleswarth Picnic Area, which serves as the primary trailhead and offers parking. Be prepared for some sections of the Swift Run Trail that can be wet or overgrown, particularly after heavy rains, so sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are a good idea. This loop is best enjoyed during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty of the Bald Eagle State Forest is at its peak.

This trail system is notable for its extensive stand of old-growth hemlock within the Snyder-Middleswarth Natural Area, giving parts of the Swift Run Trail a truly primeval feel. It's a special place that showcases the rich biodiversity of Snyder County, Pennsylvania, offering a peaceful escape into nature away from more crowded routes.

Embark on an easy hike along the paved Shikellamy Marina Trail, a flat and accessible route that winds around the marina. As you walk, you'll be treated to expansive views across Lake Augusta and the Susquehanna River, with the distant Shikellamy Bluffs and Blue Hill forming a picturesque backdrop. This gentle 1.4-mile (2.3 km) path involves a mere 20 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect choice for a quick 35-minute stroll. You might even spot white-tailed deer or various songbirds, especially near the charming butterfly garden along the way.

Planning your visit to the Shikellamy Marina Trail is straightforward, as it's part of Shikellamy State Park. You'll find amenities like picnic tables, restrooms, and benches readily available for your convenience. The marina section of the park is open year-round, so you can enjoy this trail in any season, though some services might be limited during colder months. Parking is generally easy to find directly at the marina, ensuring a hassle-free start to your outing.

The Shikellamy Marina Trail stands out as a unique feature within Shikellamy State Park, located on Packer's Island. Its paved surface and minimal elevation make it particularly accessible, welcoming hikers of all abilities, including those with disabilities. This trail offers a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature, providing a different perspective on the local waterways and landscape compared to other trails in the region.

The Penns Creek Path offers a delightful and easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hike, tracing an old railroad bed through serene hardwood forests with minimal 49 feet (15 metres) of elevation gain. You'll spend about 1 hour and 9 minutes enjoying continuous views of Penns Creek, a popular spot for fly fishing, and the trail is especially beautiful when the autumn foliage is at its peak. This route provides a peaceful woodland experience, perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with amenities like pit toilets and drinking water available at Poe Paddy State Park campgrounds near the western trailhead. The trail is enjoyable year-round, but a visit in the fall promises vibrant colors. Remember to pack a flashlight if you intend to explore the Poe Paddy Tunnel, a notable landmark along the way, as it can be dark inside.

This path is a segment of the larger Mid-State Trail and is rich in railroad history, utilizing the former Lewisburg and Tyrone Railroad bed. Beyond the historical Poe Paddy Tunnel with its unique bat gate, you might spot various wildlife, including black bears, bobcats, or timber rattlesnakes, adding an element of natural discovery to your outing. It's a great choice for families and beginner hikers looking for a scenic and accessible adventure.

Embark on a moderate hike along the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail, a pleasant journey spanning 9.8 miles (15.8 km) through Union County, Pennsylvania. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 179 feet (55 metres) over approximately 4 hours. As you hike, the path winds through wide-open rolling fields and active farmlands where you might spot cows grazing, while other sections provide welcome shade under tree-lined hedgerows and cross streams on bridges.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with convenient parking areas and restrooms available at the trailheads in Lewisburg, Mifflinburg, and Vicksburg. The route features well-marked road crossings, mostly on low-traffic farm roads, ensuring a safe experience for everyone. Its generally flat grade makes it accessible for many, including those using wheelchairs in certain sections, so you can enjoy the outdoors with ease.

This trail offers more than just scenic views; it also provides a glimpse into the region's past. Keep an eye out for interpretive signs along the way that share the route's history as a former railroad bed. This unique historical context adds an interesting layer to your hiking experience, connecting you to the heritage of the Buffalo Valley.