Pennsylvania is home to a plethora of beautiful parks and preserves. But if you’re looking to experience the best, we’ve done the research and chose the top 7 nature attractions near Hershey-Harrisburg, PA.
#1 Conewago Trail
This 5-mile rail trail follows the Conewago Creek in Lancaster County, and is level and well-graded, making it an easy, but longer trek. You’ll love hiking through scenic woodlands and farmlands. The former rail track was once the route of the Cornwall-Lebanon rail line. Thanks to Pennsylvania’s rich railway history, there are more than 900 miles of trails converted from 100 former rail lines.
#2 Horseshoe Trail
This hiking and equestrian trail runs from Valley Forge National Historical Park all the way to the Appalachian Trail for a total of 135 miles. But hikers and horseback riders can easily hike or ride just a portion of the trail, such as a beautiful, 10-mile loop in State Game Land 211. You’ll enjoy a bit of history during your hike as the Horse Shoe Trail dates back to the 1700’s.
#3 Embark into Echo Dell
If you and the family are looking for a more unique experience in nature, you’ll love exploring the mystery and history of the Indian Echo Caverns. The experience officially opened in 1929 for tourists, but these amazing formations had been inhabited by Native Americans for decades as a means of living space and storage. The caves remain at a constant 52 degrees Fahrenheit, making them a perfect place to dwell and a perfect place for you to visit year-round.
#4 Gander through Hershey Gardens
In 1937, Milton Hershey requested the creation of a rose garden overlooking the city of Hershey, PA. But little did he know that the rose garden would eventually grow into a 23-acre botanical attraction. Hershey Gardens is filled to the brim with a vast variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees, including seasonal displays, themed gardens, and a fascinating butterfly atrium. And they made sure to include the young ones! In recent years the facility added a hands-on children’s garden to help younger ones appreciate the beauty of Hershey as much as you will.
#5 Entertainment and Education at ZooAmerica
In 1903, ZooAmerica established the beginning of a long history by taking in a group of prairie dogs from a local family who could no longer care for them. Through the Great War and Depression, ZooAmerica would grow to become home and refuge to a multitude of animals. Over a century later, you will enjoy 11 acres of 200+ animals representing 70 different species from across the continent. ZooAmerica delightfully shares in educating guests on each habitat and its animal residents. You will also apprecation the animal garden and petting zoo where you come face-to-face with fun and furry creatures.
#6 Beautiful Boyd Big Tree Preserve
Perhaps you’re looking for a more calming experience, something grounding yet exhilarating. Boyd Big Tree Preserve is 1,025 acres of pure wilderness stretching across Blue Mountain. The Preserve has an assortment of walks and hikes according to your preference. If you’re a bird-watcher or just a bird-appreciator, the preserve is home to many deep forest birds such as warblers! Or, if you’re interested in learning more about the preserve, they offer a variety of education and recreational activities. Hands-on experiences, guided walks, and evening programs feature the wildlife and forest management practices being done in conservation areas.
#7 Explore and Unwind
For more scenic hiking trails, check out 14 top hiking trails in Central, PA. After an exciting day of adventuring through one or more of these 7 nature attractions near Hershey-Harrisburg, PA, the Inn at Westwynd Farm is here to help you relax and unwind. What better way to end the day than by relaxing in your luxurious guest suite with a complimentary glass of wine? How about taking a hot bath in your jetted tub or reading a book next to the fireplace? Enjoy all of these top tier amenities and more by booking your stay with us now!