Skip to main content
Conestoga Greenway Trail route in Lancaster, PA
Photo: Dwayne Rodriguez
View of Conestoga Greenway Trail in Lancaster, PA
Photo: Dwayne Rodriguez
View of Conestoga Greenway Trail in Lancaster, PA
Photo: Dwayne Rodriguez

Conestoga Greenway Trail

FreeAdventure
🕑 1-3 hours depending on how far your family walks or bikes👶 Best for all ages, newborn to teen. The smooth, paved surface is perfect for strollers with infants, toddlers learning to ride balance bikes, and older kids ready to log serious miles on their bikes. Even teenagers enjoy the peaceful river views and longer cycling stretches.

About

The Conestoga Greenway Trail offers families a beautiful, paved pathway perfect for introducing kids to outdoor adventure without the difficulty of rugged terrain. Stretching along the scenic Conestoga River, this easy-access trail is ideal for bike rides, leisurely walks, scooter cruising, and even stroller pushing, making it accessible for families with children of all ages and abilities.

Highlights

  • Smooth, completely paved trail perfect for strollers, bikes, scooters, and beginner riders
  • Beautiful Conestoga River views with opportunities to spot turtles, herons, and fish
  • Safe, traffic-free environment ideal for kids learning to ride bikes
  • Multiple access points allow families to choose shorter or longer distances
  • Peaceful natural setting while still being close to Lancaster amenities

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Park at the Conestoga River trailhead for easiest access with strollers and bikes,there's ample parking and clear trail entry points
  2. 2.Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience; weekends after 10am can get busy with cyclists and walkers
  3. 3.Bring bikes or scooters for kids who've outgrown strollers,the flat, paved trail makes it easy for even beginners to ride confidently
  4. 4.Pack snacks and water as there are limited facilities along the trail, but plenty of scenic spots for picnic breaks by the river
  5. 5.Look for turtles sunbathing on logs and great blue herons fishing in the river,bring binoculars for young wildlife watchers

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and stunning foliage, with weekday mornings providing the quietest experience. Early morning visits (7-9am) are perfect for spotting wildlife and avoiding crowds, especially on weekends.

What to Know

The trail is free to use with multiple access points and parking areas throughout Lancaster. While there are no restroom facilities or food vendors directly on the trail, it's fully paved and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers of all types.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round, though spring (April-May) offers beautiful wildflowers and fall (October-November) provides stunning foliage. Summer can be hot with limited shade in some sections, so early morning visits are recommended. The trail is maintained in winter but may have snow/ice during colder months.

Nearby Eats

Stop by Shady Maple Smorgasbord (about 15 minutes away) for family-style Pennsylvania Dutch buffet dining that kids love, or grab casual burgers and shakes at Five Guys on Lincoln Highway for a quick post-trail meal.

More Activities Near Lancaster

Activity

Akron Community Library

Free

Akron Community Library is a welcoming haven for young readers in Lancaster, PA, featuring a thoughtfully curated children's section that sparks imagination and curiosity. Beyond the shelves, families can enjoy regular storytimes and age-appropriate programs specifically designed to foster a love of reading and learning in children.

Ice Cream

Zoetropolis Ice Cream Parlor

$

Zoetropolis Ice Cream Parlor combines two things kids absolutely love: creative ice cream flavors and vintage entertainment. Located in a charming historic building in downtown Lancaster, this isn't your typical ice cream shop,the homemade flavors are adventurous and delicious, and the nostalgic atmosphere with vintage entertainment elements makes it a memorable experience that goes beyond just a sweet treat.

Park

Lancaster County Central Park

4.7Free

Lancaster County Central Park is a sprawling outdoor paradise that offers something for every member of the family. With miles of scenic trails perfect for biking and hiking, open athletic fields, natural woodland areas to explore, and playgrounds scattered throughout, this highly-rated park is ideal for families who love active outdoor adventures. The park's diverse amenities mean you can easily spend an entire day here, whether your kids want to run wild on the trails, practice sports, or simply enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.

Park

Rocky Ridge Park

4.7Free

Rocky Ridge Park offers 63 acres of natural beauty perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure in Lancaster County. With well-maintained hiking trails suitable for little legs, scenic overlooks that reward young explorers, and spacious picnic areas ideal for family lunches, this highly-rated park provides an excellent escape into nature without venturing far from civilization.