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Best lake hiking trails in Chester County
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Best lake hiking trails in Chester County

Want a trail where the views are as smooth as the water鈥檚 surface? These lake-side paths will have you reflecting on nature鈥檚 beauty鈥攍iterally鈥攚hile enjoying the peace and tranquility of the great outdoors.

Here are some great trails to explore in Chester County.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Kennett Square Reservoir Loop

Chester County, Pennsylvania · star 5.0 (27) · 3.2 km · Est. 41 min

2

Easy

Hibernia County Park and Chambers Lake Loop

Chester County, Pennsylvania · star 4.0 (23) · 4.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 8 min

3

Medium

Marsh Creek Reservoir Loop

Chester County, Pennsylvania · star 4.0 (35) · 3.5 km · Est. 51 min

4

Easy

Nottingham County Park Loop via Buck Trail and Doe Trail - White

Chester County, Pennsylvania · star 5.0 (27) · 5.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 14 min

5

Easy

Chambers Lake

Chester County, Pennsylvania · star 4.0 (32) · 2.0 km · Est. 26 min

6

Easy

Interpretive Nature Trail

Chester County, Pennsylvania · star 4.0 (31) · 1.1 km · Est. 15 min

7

Easy

Marsh Creek Reservoir - Millford Mills

Chester County, Pennsylvania · star 5.0 (29) · 24.9 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

8

Easy

Yellow Trail Loop from Milford Mills

Chester County, Pennsylvania · star 5.0 (33) · 12.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 49 min

9

Easy

Marsh Creek Reservoir Trail

Chester County, Pennsylvania · star 5.0 (26) · 1.6 km · Est. 20 min

10

Easy

Delchester Run Loop

Chester County, Pennsylvania · star 4.0 (27) · 4.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 5 min

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Reviews for lake hiking trails in Chester County

Earnest Schumm VM avatar

Kennett Square Reservoir Loop

HarborPathfinder30 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Filiberto Toy avatar

Hibernia County Park and Chambers Lake Loop

HavenHavenranger72 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Melanie Bednar avatar

Marsh Creek Reservoir Loop

TrailLedgehopper17 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

David avatar

Nottingham County Park Loop via Buck Trail and Doe Trail - White

Riff42 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Tons of rock outcrops on the trail. It's a barrens in the Serpentine belt. Lots of minerals not found in many places. Trails are either gravel, dirt, or bedrock. They do grade some due to erosion, but luckily use local material. LOTS of hills, some quite steep and loose rocks. Open areas, fields, and some sparse wooded areas. Some creek access. Easy to get lost, but in the end, everything ends up within the park.

Alyse Yost DVM avatar

Chambers Lake

MeadowFrontier61 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Chester 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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