Photo credit: Emily Newman
Leading from one end of Lancaster County to the other, Conestoga Trail (CT) is an excellent north-south trail for those looking to experience PA farm country on foot. The trail is officially listed as 63 miles long, although most thru-hikers will tell you it is actually closer to 66 miles long.
The first lesson of the CT is the most important: be ready for long road walks. To be honest, most of this trail follows narrow country roads. Because of this, there isn't much opportunity for legal camping along this trail - but you are likely to see more than one Amish horse and buggy! While there are plenty of chances to find obtain accommodations, most hikers enjoy day hikes on the CT rather than attempting one continuous thru-hike. Still others attempt to run the whole trail in one day. Just a quick 100k for those who are prepared!
The first lesson of the CT is the most important: be ready for long road walks. To be honest, most of this trail follows narrow country roads. Because of this, there isn't much opportunity for legal camping along this trail - but you are likely to see more than one Amish horse and buggy! While there are plenty of chances to find obtain accommodations, most hikers enjoy day hikes on the CT rather than attempting one continuous thru-hike. Still others attempt to run the whole trail in one day. Just a quick 100k for those who are prepared!
Photo credit: Emily Newman
The second lesson of the Conestoga Trail: Valley streams. The trail follows numerous streams as it leads southbound (and downstream) to the Susquehanna River. Begin your hike at Hammer Creek and follow it for several miles, then find your way to Cocalico Creek and Middle Creek. Next you'll hit Conestoga River. The southern section of trail crosses more streams than it follows, but water is still abundant. Do beware, this trail is near the bottom of the watershed and is surrounded by urban and farm development...I don't suggest drinking the stream water. Instead, stop at gas stations to buy water or set up resupply caches along your route.
Photo credit: Emily Newman
Lesson three: Farm fields! Yep, Lancaster County is full of farm fields and the Conestoga Trail walks beside and around several farm fields. It's not everyday that a hiker is fortunate to walk along farm fields, so soak it up. Sometimes these sections of trail can be difficult to follow, but please do your best to respect private lands and fields along this route.
Photo credit: Emily Newman
Speaking of following the trail, lesson four is all about maps and guides. While free maps can be downloaded from Lancaster Hiking Club, I also suggest contacting the club for information on obtaining their guidebook. Also, bring your cell phone to help as well (service is limited in the southern sections of trail). Nonetheless, the trail is maintained and blazed (orange) by volunteers. The blazes and trail can be difficult to follow in several sections, mostly along the roadways. Furthermore, trail updates and reroutes occur often, so bring a Lancaster County road map (or cell phone) to be sure you can track your progress throughout your trip!
Photo credit: Emily Newman
The southern section of trail includes beautiful single track trails, water cascades, and views along the mighty Susquehanna River. Take note of lesson five though: The Susquehanna Valley isn't as flat as you may think! This gorgeous section of trail includes several crossing of tributaries leading into the Susquehanna River. Hikers must climb and descend steep hills in between these tributaries. Don't fret, the hiking is definitely worth the effort!
Photo credit: Becky Clawson
