Mt. Gretna Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

This hike offers a beautiful jaunt around the eastern half of the mountain. At about 1 mile in, you'll discover the popular observation tower built in the 1950s. The tower gives an impressive 360-degree view. This is not a stairwell but two narrow shafts with ladders/landings inside. One shaft is up only, the other is down only. The hike is fairly rocky, but manageable.

The parking area has bathrooms as well as an environmental center with information etc.

Starting near the parking lot off of Pinch Rd., this loop takes you up and along the crest of the mountain. At the top and along Trail #4, you'll find the old foundations for the historic housing built there.

Further out along Trail 8, will be the observation tower atop Governor Dick Hill. The entire series of trails is by and large, very rocky, though there are moments where it becomes a nice double wide trail. Bikes and horses are allowed on several of these trails.

The return leg of the loop along Trail #15 is fairly light and easy as it is at the foot of the hill and mostly descending. This is where you'll find several bouldering areas as well.

Dense forest. Could definitely get buggy in the summer, and with all the rocks, may be a good place for snakes.

Mt. Gretna was once a production site for charcoal. Tower and foundations were built in the 1950s.