The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Hershey

The Hershey area offers a great selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features 8 easy routes specifically curated for families, ensuring a pleasant experience for all ages.

The region boasts a diverse landscape with many trails designed for ease and accessibility. You'll find gentle rail trails, elevated boardwalks through wetlands, and well-maintained paths in local parks. Many routes offer engaging scenery without challenging ascents, perfect for little legs.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Hershey, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 13 ratings. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful natural surroundings, and the overall accessibility that makes these routes enjoyable for families.

Yes, for very young children or those with strollers, the region offers excellent options. The Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail is a 13.5-mile paved path winding through Derry Township. Additionally, Wildwood Park in Harrisburg features elevated boardwalk trails through scenic wetlands, providing a unique and accessible outdoor experience.

Absolutely! The Hershey and Harrisburg region is known for its forested ridgelands that offer expansive views of the Susquehanna Valley. While specific family-friendly routes might not always lead to dramatic overlooks, many trails run alongside the Susquehanna River and its tributaries, providing serene waterside views.

Yes, several circular routes are ideal for families. Consider the Hotel Hershey Loop, a pleasant 3.7 km walk. Another great option is the Bullfrog Valley Park loop from Penn State Hershey, which is just over 5 km. For a shorter option, there's also the Hiking loop from Hershey at 2 km.

Many parks and trails in the Hershey area are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. It's always best to check the specific rules for each park or trail before you go. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash in most state and local parks.

Yes, Wildwood Park in Harrisburg is a fantastic destination for experiencing unique natural environments. It features elevated boardwalk trails that wind through scenic wetlands, offering a chance to observe local wildlife and plant life in an accessible setting.

The Hershey area is beautiful year-round, but early spring and fall are particularly rewarding. In spring, you'll see new growth and wildflowers, while fall offers spectacular foliage changes, making for truly memorable family hikes. Summer can be warm, so plan for early morning or late afternoon hikes.

While some trails within Harrisburg, like sections of the Capital Area Greenbelt, might be accessible via local public transport, direct public transport options to many trailheads outside the city center are limited. We recommend checking local transit schedules for specific routes if you plan to rely on public transport.

Yes, Little Buffalo State Park offers a combination of trails, a swimming pool, and historic sites, making it a comprehensive recreational hub for families. Hershey Gardens, while primarily a botanical attraction, also provides pleasant walking environments with paved paths suitable for families.

For a comfortable family hike, always bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate footwear. Depending on the season, consider sunscreen, insect repellent, hats, and rain gear. A small first-aid kit is also a good idea. For younger children, a carrier might be useful on longer routes.