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Best scenic view hiking trails in Adams County
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Best scenic view hiking trails in Adams County

Looking for a hike that鈥檚 all about the views? These scenic trails serve up postcard-perfect panoramas around every corner鈥攕o don鈥檛 forget your camera!

Here are some great trails to explore in Adams County.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Long Pine Run Reservoir Loop Trail

Adams County, Pennsylvania · star 5.0 (25) · 9.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 23 min

2

Easy

Pine Grove Road to Michaux Road via Appalachian Trail

Adams County, Pennsylvania · star 5.0 (27) · 22.6 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

3

Easy

Culps Hill and Pardee Field Loop Trail

Adams County, Pennsylvania · star 4.0 (26) · 5.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 18 min

4

Easy

Stony Hill, Little Round and Spangler's Woods Loop

Adams County, Pennsylvania · star 5.0 (21) · 15.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 23 min

5

Medium

Swamp Creek via Strawberry Hill Trail Loop

Adams County, Pennsylvania · star 4.0 (23) · 7.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 48 min

6

Medium

Quarry Run and Dark Hollow Run Loop

Adams County, Pennsylvania · star 4.0 (26) · 8.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 12 min

7

Easy

Cemetery Ridge Loop

Adams County, Pennsylvania · star 4.0 (26) · 4.5 km · Est. 59 min

8

Easy

Culps Hill and Pardee Field Loop

Adams County, Pennsylvania · star 4.0 (31) · 7.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 37 min

9

Easy

Sier Hill Loop via Rocky Knob Trail

Adams County, Pennsylvania · star 5.0 (25) · 6.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 39 min

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Reviews for scenic view hiking trails in Adams County

Becky Foreman avatar

Long Pine Run Reservoir Loop Trail

Becky F 路 reviewed 5 months ago

star star star star star

Nice day. 82 degrees. Sunny and partly cloudy.

Benedict Schneider IV avatar

Pine Grove Road to Michaux Road via Appalachian Trail

SunriseTrailblazer84 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Mrs. Erlene Cartwright avatar

Culps Hill and Pardee Field Loop Trail

TrailWoodlander85 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Gail Harber II avatar

Stony Hill, Little Round and Spangler's Woods Loop

MeadowBasecamper48 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Eloise Tremblay avatar

Swamp Creek via Strawberry Hill Trail Loop

SummithawkSkytracker85 路 reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Adams County

What is the climate like for hiking in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations, influencing the hiking experience. Springtime hiking, from March to May, can be unpredictable with fluctuating temperatures and frequent rain, turning trails slippery. Summer, spanning June to August, brings warmer temperatures, making daytime hikes potentially challenging, but offering the best visibility and flora exploration.
From September to November, the autumn season paints Pennsylvania's hiking trails with vibrant colors. This is an ideal time for hiking with moderate temperatures and less rainfall. However, trails can be covered with leaves, making them slippery. Winter hikes, from December to February, require proper gear due to freezing temperatures and potential snow, but the stark beauty of the landscape can be a reward.
It's generally recommended to hike in Pennsylvania during the fall for the most comfortable temperatures and scenic beauty. Always check the weather before hiking, and prepare accordingly. For detailed forecasts, the National Weather Service (https://www.weather.gov/) can be a reliable resource, and for specific trail conditions and advice, the Keystone Trails Association (https://www.kta-hike.org/) offers a wealth of information.

Do I need a permit to hike in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, most hiking trails are open to the public without requiring permits. However, for overnight backpacking in some state forests and parks, you may need a free permit. These can be obtained by contacting the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). For information and inquiries, visit their official website (https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/).

Is wild camping allowed in Pennsylvania?

Wild camping in Pennsylvania is generally permitted in state forests and some state parks, but with restrictions. Campsites must be at least 25 feet from trails and 100 feet from streams or other water sources. Overnight stays may require a permit from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/).

Are there mountain rescue services in Pennsylvania?

In case of emergencies during hiking in Pennsylvania, dial 911 to reach local law enforcement, who coordinate with other agencies for mountain rescue operations. The Pennsylvania Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team (PA-HART) may also be deployed for complex rescues. For more information, visit their website https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Recreation/SearchAndRescue/Pages/default.aspx

Are there dangerous plants in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania's trails offer diverse flora, with deciduous forests in the southeast and coniferous in the northwest. You'll find oak, maple, and pine trees, and wildflowers in spring. Beware of poison ivy and poison oak. The DCNR's "iConservePA" portal (https://www.iconservepa.org/) provides detailed information about local flora.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Pennsylvania?

On Pennsylvania's trails, hikers may encounter white-tailed deer, squirrels, and birds like the ruffed grouse. Insects include ticks, which can carry Lyme disease. Black bears are present but generally avoid humans. Information on wildlife safety is available on the Pennsylvania Game Commission's website (https://www.pgc.pa.gov/).

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