Kellys Run Nature Preserve
Discover the scenic trails, waterfalls, and stunning river views at Kelly's Run Nature Preserve. A perfect escape for hikers and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming flowers & fewer crowds
Kellys Run Nature Preserve
Best Time
Blooming flowers & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the scenic trails, waterfalls, and stunning river views at Kelly's Run Nature Preserve. A perfect escape for hikers and nature lovers.
"Gorgeous hike! We were pleasantly surprised at how most of it goes along a beautiful stream."
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for rocky paths & stream crossings. Good grip prevents slips! :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Yellow Jackets
Be aware, especially near pollinator areas. Carry an epi-pen if allergic. :bee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kelly's Run Loop Trail
Main trail system
A scenic 4-mile loop with elevation gain, featuring stream crossings and small waterfalls.
Pinnacle Overlook
Offshoot from blue trail
Offers stunning panoramic views of the Susquehanna River valley. A rewarding climb for the effort.
Stream-side Scenery
Along the blue trail
Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of walking alongside a beautiful stream with rock formations.
Pollinator Park
Near the trailhead
A vibrant area dedicated to pollinators, offering a unique natural experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Best Time to Visit & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for rocky paths & stream crossings. Good grip prevents slips! :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Yellow Jackets
Be aware, especially near pollinator areas. Carry an epi-pen if allergic. :bee:
Explore the White Trail
Adds miles and leads to the amazing Pinnacle Overlook. Worth the climb! :mountain_climbing:
Dog-Friendly (with caution)
Great for agile dogs, but challenging for older or less mobile pets. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for rocky paths & stream crossings. Good grip prevents slips! :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Yellow Jackets
Be aware, especially near pollinator areas. Carry an epi-pen if allergic. :bee:
Explore the White Trail
Adds miles and leads to the amazing Pinnacle Overlook. Worth the climb! :mountain_climbing:
Dog-Friendly (with caution)
Great for agile dogs, but challenging for older or less mobile pets. :dog:
Trail is Well-Marked
Easy to navigate the main loop and offshoots. Follow the blue and white blazes. :map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Kelly's Run Nature Preserve for its beautiful stream-side trails, rewarding climbs to overlooks, and peaceful atmosphere. While some sections are rocky and steep, the well-marked paths and free access make it a highly recommended destination for hikers and nature lovers. Be mindful of potential yellow jacket activity in certain areas.
"Great place for hiking, trail running, dog walking, etc. free parking. Plenty of space. There are multiple signs explaining there are yellow jackets on the trail. The views of the river are nice. Sitting on the rocks by the stream is a pleasant experience. Some steep parts of the trail but I wouldn't call the loop difficult. Probably moderately challenging to do the whole run around. Lovely place to take a nice walk in nature."
Trey Tomas
"Gorgeous hike!
We were pleasantly surprised at howost of it goes a long a beautiful stream.
Some rocky areas to climb/walk through so be careful of slippery areas.
Very well marked trail! We appreciated that!
We went off the blue trail onto the white trail up to Pinnacle overlook and we were NOT disappointed with that decision to add some miles in. It was mostly uphill which was a little tough but worth the view!
Highly recommend!"
Sarah Edwards
"Great hike on part of the blue trail! The honeysuckle smelled lovely. So quiet, even though the parking lot was almost full. And,... the portable bathrooms were recently cleaned. 😏"
Kristin Bielski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kelly's Run Nature Preserve is located in Holtwood, PA, about 20 miles from Lancaster. You can reach it by car via PA-372 W. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes. There is free parking available at the trailhead.
Public transportation options to Kelly's Run Nature Preserve are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you do not have your own car.
The main loop trail is marked with blue blazes, and the trail to Pinnacle Overlook is marked with white blazes. Following these markers will help you navigate the preserve effectively.
Kelly's Run is near the Susquehanna River and not far from other natural areas. You can also explore the nearby Pinnacle Overlook for extended views.
Kelly's Run Nature Preserve is situated in Holtwood, Pennsylvania, close to the Susquehanna River. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kelly's Run Nature Preserve offers free admission and free parking, making it an accessible natural escape.
As a nature preserve, Kelly's Run is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's recommended to visit during safe daylight for hiking.
No advance booking or tickets are required to visit Kelly's Run Nature Preserve. It's open to the public for exploration.
The primary consideration is respecting the natural environment. Be mindful of wildlife, stay on marked trails, and pack out what you pack in.
Yes, Kelly's Run is beautiful year-round. Spring offers blooming flora, summer provides lush greenery, autumn boasts vibrant foliage, and winter can offer serene snowy landscapes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Kelly's Run features a 4-mile loop trail with moderate elevation gain, rocky sections, stream crossings, and small waterfalls. There are also offshoot trails, like the one to Pinnacle Overlook. +1
While beautiful, some sections are rocky and involve stream crossings, which might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Agile children can enjoy it with supervision.
You might encounter various birds, insects, and potentially small mammals. One TikTok mentioned a hawk interaction. Be aware of yellow jackets, especially in pollinator areas.
Portable bathrooms are available and have been noted as recently cleaned.
Capture the waterfalls, rocky stream beds, lush forest, and panoramic views from Pinnacle Overlook. The Pollinator Park also offers unique shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kelly's Run Nature Preserve is a natural area and does not have any dining facilities. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and water for your hike.
The nearest dining options will be in the towns surrounding Holtwood and Lancaster. You can find a variety of restaurants offering different cuisines in these areas.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can find scenic spots along the trails or by the stream to enjoy a packed meal. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles.
It's advisable to bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes, and high-energy snacks like trail mix, granola bars, or fruit.
You'll need to travel towards nearby towns like Holtwood or Lancaster to find cafes and coffee shops.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfalls, rocky stream crossings, and the expansive views from Pinnacle Overlook are prime photography locations. The lush forest canopy also provides beautiful shots. +1
Absolutely! The varied terrain, from intimate stream scenes to the grand vistas at Pinnacle Overlook, offers excellent opportunities for landscape photographers.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also work for certain shots, especially in the shaded forest.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with the Lancaster Conservancy or local authorities regarding drone policies within the preserve to ensure compliance.
A versatile setup is ideal. A wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife or distant details. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures of water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider taking the blue-blazed loop trail which is generally well-marked. For a more rewarding experience, especially with older children, the white-blazed trail to Pinnacle Overlook offers stunning views, though it involves a steeper climb. Ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear, and pack plenty of water and snacks. The Pollinator Park can also be an interesting educational stop for curious young minds.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Trail Runners
Trail runners will appreciate the mix of surfaces, from packed earth to rocky scrambles, which add an element of technicality to their workout. The Pinnacle Overlook provides a rewarding destination for a longer run or a challenging ascent. Solo visitors should always inform someone of their hiking plans and carry essentials like water and a phone.
📸 Nature Photographers
The highlight for many photographers is the Pinnacle Overlook, offering sweeping panoramic views of the Susquehanna River valley. This spot is particularly stunning during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The Pollinator Park also presents unique opportunities for macro photography and capturing the vibrant life of insects and flowers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
For those seeking a more challenging and visually spectacular hike, an offshoot trail marked with white blazes leads to the Pinnacle Overlook. This extension involves a more sustained uphill climb but rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the Susquehanna River valley. It's a popular addition for those looking to extend their hike and experience the preserve's most iconic vista.
When planning your hike, it's crucial to wear appropriate footwear. Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction are highly recommended due to the uneven and sometimes slippery surfaces. This will enhance your safety and comfort throughout the trek.
Wildlife and Seasonal Beauty
While the preserve is rich in biodiversity, visitors should be aware of potential wildlife encounters. Some social media content has highlighted interactions with birds of prey, such as hawks. A notable point of caution, especially during warmer months, is the presence of yellow jackets, particularly in and around the pollinator areas. Individuals with bee allergies should take necessary precautions, such as carrying an epinephrine auto-injector.
The changing seasons bring distinct beauty to Kelly's Run. Autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant foliage, offering stunning photographic opportunities. Even in winter, the preserve can present a serene, snow-covered environment, as captured in some user-generated content.
This year-round appeal makes Kelly's Run a destination for all seasons, though spring and fall are often highlighted for their pleasant weather and visual splendor.Accessibility and Dog-Friendly Considerations
While agile dogs generally navigate the trails well, owners of older dogs or those with limited mobility might find the hike strenuous for their pets. It's advisable to assess your dog's physical capabilities before embarking on the full loop. Always ensure your dog is on a leash to respect other visitors and protect local wildlife.
The preserve's natural setting means that while it's dog-friendly, it's not designed with specific dog amenities like agility courses. The focus remains on preserving the natural environment. Visitors are reminded to clean up after their pets and adhere to all posted guidelines to ensure the preserve remains enjoyable for everyone, including their four-legged friends.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit