Northwest Lancaster County River Trail
A scenic 32-mile paved trail along the Susquehanna River, featuring historical tunnels, cliffs, and bridges. Perfect for biking, walking, and enjoying...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Northwest Lancaster County River Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 32-mile paved trail along the Susquehanna River, featuring historical tunnels, cliffs, and bridges. Perfect for biking, walking, and enjoying nature.
"A wonderful and beautiful place for a walk/run/bike ride! Very peaceful and quiet!!"
Park at Columbia Visitor Center
Cleanest bathrooms and ample parking. Good starting point for a few miles. :toilet:
Bike Rentals Available
Rent e-bikes in Columbia to explore the trail from Columbia to Marietta. :electric_plug:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
White Cliffs of Conoy
Marietta
Dramatic white cliffs offering picturesque river views, a unique geological and historical site.
Point Rock Tunnel
Near Bainbridge
An intriguing tunnel blasted through rock for a historic railroad, now part of the trail.
Shock's Mill Bridge
Columbia
An old railroad bridge offering scenic views and a connection point on the trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Access
Best Sections for Scenery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Park at Columbia Visitor Center
Cleanest bathrooms and ample parking. Good starting point for a few miles. :toilet:
Bike Rentals Available
Rent e-bikes in Columbia to explore the trail from Columbia to Marietta. :electric_plug:
Focus on Columbia-Marietta
This section offers the best river views and unique sites like White Cliffs. :camerawithflash:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ideal for walking, running, or biking. Paved and well-maintained surfaces. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Park at Columbia Visitor Center
Cleanest bathrooms and ample parking. Good starting point for a few miles. :toilet:
Bike Rentals Available
Rent e-bikes in Columbia to explore the trail from Columbia to Marietta. :electric_plug:
Focus on Columbia-Marietta
This section offers the best river views and unique sites like White Cliffs. :camerawithflash:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ideal for walking, running, or biking. Paved and well-maintained surfaces. :athletic_shoe:
Check Trail Conditions
While generally well-maintained, be aware of potential port-a-potty upkeep. :information_desk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail for its beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and suitability for biking and walking. The trail's unique features like the White Cliffs and tunnel are highlights. However, some reviewers note that river views can be obstructed by railroad tracks in certain sections and that the port-a-potties are not always well-maintained.
"A wonderful an beautiful place for a walk/run/bike ride! Definitely check it out if you get a chance! Very peaceful an quiet!!"
Bryan Brubacker
"This trail stands out as my second favorite in PA. The round-trip distance is perfect, offering plenty of twists and turns that set it apart from typical rail trails. Despite the convenience of port potties every few miles, they're consistently poorly maintained. Despite this, the trail's scenic beauty and unique features make it a worthwhile experience."
Jd Lizard
"There is basically no river view from the so called River Trail. Unfortunately the railroad tracks are running by the riverside, blocks the view and gives no access to get close to the river. The trail between Columbia and Marietta is a flat paved wide bicycle road that runs through a nice forest. It has a couple of historical sites of old iron furnaces, a short tunnel through the cliff, and a rock climbing area. Very recommended for cycling, less attractive for pedestrians. If you want to view the river, go from the Marietta parking lot to the other side, and drive to the boat ramp parking area."
Jay kofkings
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Columbia River Crossing Visitor Center is highly recommended for its clean bathrooms and plentiful parking. Other access points exist, but this one is frequently cited for convenience.
The White Cliffs of Conoy are accessible via the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail, particularly from the Marietta side. It's a popular destination for hikers and bikers.
Public transport options are limited for direct access to trailheads. Driving to designated parking areas is the most common and practical method for reaching the trail.
Yes, the trail spans 32 miles and connects several towns, including Columbia, Marietta, and Falmouth. Each town offers different access points and amenities.
Generally, there are no entrance fees for the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail itself, as it's a public multi-use trail. Parking is also typically free at designated lots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail is a public recreational trail and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to use for walking, biking, and running.
The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk. There are no official closing times, but it's advisable to plan your visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
Pets are generally allowed on the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always clean up after your pet.
Much of the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail is paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, especially the sections between Columbia and Marietta.
The trail is a public space and does not require reservations. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the White Cliffs of Conoy for stunning views, the Point Rock Tunnel for a unique historical feature, and the Shock's Mill Bridge. The stretch between Columbia and Marietta is particularly scenic. +1
The trail offers a mix of shaded sections, particularly through wooded areas, and more exposed stretches with river views. The Columbia River Crossing area has good shade.
Yes, there are port-a-potties available at intervals along the trail. However, their maintenance can be inconsistent. The Columbia River Crossing Visitor Center has more reliable facilities.
Expect a variety of scenery including river views (though sometimes obstructed by railroad tracks), wooded areas, wetlands, and historical industrial remnants. +1
Absolutely! The White Cliffs, river vistas, and historical structures offer excellent photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the trail itself doesn't have many dining options, towns like Columbia and Marietta, which the trail passes through, offer various cafes, restaurants, and pubs.
Yes, bringing a picnic is a great idea! There are many scenic spots along the trail where you can stop and enjoy your meal.
Drinking water availability is limited. While there are port-a-potties, they may not always have water. It's best to carry your own water bottle, especially on longer rides or hikes.
The White Cliffs are located near Marietta, which has several dining options. You can find cafes and restaurants in town to refuel after your visit.
Snacks are not readily available directly on the trail itself. It's recommended to purchase snacks before you start your journey or plan a stop in one of the adjacent towns.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the river views and the White Cliffs. Golden hour light enhances the natural beauty.
The White Cliffs of Conoy, the Point Rock Tunnel, Shock's Mill Bridge, and the Susquehanna River vistas are prime locations for photography.
The overlooks near the White Cliffs provide excellent vantage points. Also, various points along the trail offer unobstructed views of the Susquehanna River.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances and park rules regarding drone operation before flying.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture both wide river landscapes and details of historical sites. A wide-angle lens is great for the cliffs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider starting your adventure from the Columbia River Crossing Visitor Center, which provides convenient parking and facilities. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities directly on the trail are limited. The trail's length can be adjusted to suit your family's energy levels, making it a flexible outing.
🚶♀️ Pedestrian Explorers
Be aware that some sections might have railroad tracks running alongside the river, which can occasionally obstruct direct river access. However, the paved path and the surrounding woodlands provide a pleasant environment for a stroll or a run. The Columbia River Crossing Visitor Center is a good starting point for a walk with access to facilities.
📸 Nature Photographers
Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for lighting. Consider bringing a versatile lens to capture both expansive river views and intricate details of the historical sites. The trail's accessibility makes it easy to reach various scenic spots without extensive hiking.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the White Cliffs of Conoy
Accessing the cliffs is straightforward via the paved river trail. Many visitors combine a hike or bike ride with a stop at the cliffs. The area offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Remember that while beautiful, the cliffs are a result of industrial activity, and it's important to respect the site and avoid disturbing the environment.
From the cliffs, you can continue your exploration along the trail, which offers further historical points of interest and scenic river views. The combination of natural beauty and industrial history makes the White Cliffs a memorable highlight of the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail experience.
Historical Significance of the Trail
Along the trail, you'll encounter remnants of this era, including old iron furnaces and bridges like the Shock's Mill Bridge. These historical sites offer a glimpse into the area's manufacturing and transportation heritage. The trail's transformation from a vital transportation artery to a recreational trail showcases a successful adaptive reuse of industrial infrastructure.
This historical context adds another layer of interest for visitors. Whether you're biking, walking, or running, you're traversing a path with a rich past. Understanding the history behind the trail can enhance your appreciation for the landscape and the efforts made to preserve it for public enjoyment.
Biking and E-Biking Adventures
For those looking to cover more ground or tackle the trail with ease, e-biking is becoming increasingly popular. Companies like LetsRollLancaster offer e-bike rentals in Columbia, allowing visitors to easily access the trail and explore its full length. This is a fantastic option for families or individuals who want to maximize their time on the trail and enjoy the scenery without excessive exertion.
+1When biking, remember to be mindful of other trail users, especially pedestrians. While the trail is wide, it's good practice to announce your presence when passing. The variety of scenery, from river views to wooded paths, makes biking the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail a truly enjoyable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit