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Gifford Pinchot State Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 3,633 Google reviews · Running trail in Lewisberry, Pennsylvania · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Gifford Pinchot State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Gifford Pinchot State Park
“From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the spaciousness and the well-maintained facilities.”
“Lake Trail was gorgeous this week in January!”
“Outside of this area are hiking and biking trails, fishing and birding opportunities and acres and acres of peaceful nature.”
Beautiful state park. Something to do for everyone here! Hiking, boating, wildlife, swimming, fishing, and cookouts, just to name a few! Also has a large campground and a Frisbee Golf course here too. There is plenty of parking available, even on a busy day. Always a day well spent at Pinchot!
So much to do here! We finally decided to visit Gifford Pinchot park and I'm so glad we did! This place is huge with something for everyone: RV & camping sites, cabins, seasonal snack bar, boat rentals of every kind, a well groomed swimming beach, large picnic area adjacent to a children's play area that comes…
Lake Trail was gorgeous this week in January! A little muddy from the rain, but easy to maneuver around. Trails were well marked and very well maintained, fallen trees removed etc. Rocky in some places, so be prepared for hiking conditions, but trail is flat. Gorgeous lake views the whole way.
Absolutely gorgeous park. There is a surprisingly engaging community here and it makes for a relaxing and sometimes exciting time. There are a number of beautiful trails around the scenic lakeside that are an absolute must for anyone who loves a long walk.
Trail conditions & character
“The trails were a highlight, offering breathtaking views and varying levels of difficulty, perfect for both casual strolls and more serious hikes.”
“Outside of this area are hiking and biking trails, fishing and birding opportunities and acres and acres of peaceful nature.”
“Last time I was there was 2006 and the camp shower bathrooms have not been updated since then.”
“A little muddy from the rain, but easy to maneuver around.”
“Very easy to find Lake Trail from any parking lot and take it as far as you want.”
Plan your run at Gifford Pinchot State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitedcnr.pa.gov
- Phone+1 717-432-5011
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Lewisberry
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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