3 Susquehanna Valley Parks useful for a good workout
Running through the trees, hiking up and over hills, or a stroll amongst the fallen leaves is the best kind of activity to fill the lungs with oxygen and the legs with muscle. There are three parks that get my vote for a good workout, along with running water and beautiful views.
A former horse farm turned into a county park, provides a combination of a paved path and various trails through wooded expanses. There are hills that will have you panting and stopping for breath before you reach the top. Hills can be avoided for those wanting an easy stroll. The views are simply amazing!
Wolf's Hollow County Park
Wolf's Hollow County Park
2. Martic Township Park (Martin Tract)
Martic Township Park is a hidden gem, barely noticeable along a main route to more notable trails. Put the car in a low gear and punch it to climb to the parking lot, and the climb only continues as the trail takes a very steep ascent before a gradual decline. The trail meanders along a small creek and then veers off through wooded landscapes. Trail markers can be tricky to follow, but a map is available at the parking lot.
Martic Township Park
3. Trout Run Nature Preserve / Steinman Run Nature Preserve
Two trails separated by a road, can be joined for a nice rolling leg and lung killer. From the parking lot of Steinman, start up the hill for a good 1/4 climb, but this is not the one that will have you doubled over gasping for air. That comes with the second ascent which appears to be nothing difficult, until you round the corner and the climb keeps going. I would use this trail to judge my fitness level, by seeing if I could complete the entire thing without stopping. When you hit the old logging road, keep your eyes pealed to the left for the trail to veer off for a back mile loop (this is my favorite section of the trail). Creek jumping and zig-zagging keep this section of the trail interesting.
Steinman Run Nature Preserve - might see interesting animals along the trail
4. Other notable, but more popular trails
Tucquan Glenn
Mount Gretna (Governor Dick)
Shenk's Ferry Wild Flower Preserve
Conestoga Trail (Pequea Boat Dock to Holtwood Recreation Park - does go further)
