At Hershey Primary Care, we believe walking is one of the simplest ways to boost your health – supporting your heart, reducing stress, improving mood, and increasing energy. As the weather warms and spring blossoms around us, it’s the perfect time to step outside and explore the many walking trails in and around Hershey, Pennsylvania.
One of the most scenic local routes connects Shank Park to Bullfrog Valley Park and the Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail. This mostly paved path begins at the expansive Shank Park—home to sports fields, playgrounds, and an 18-hole disc golf course—and continues along a shaded route to Bullfrog Valley Park, with its popular pond and picnic area. From there, you can hop onto the Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail, a 13.5-mile paved path that winds through various parts of Derry Township, offering an accessible and well-maintained option for longer walks or bike rides.
On the grounds of The Hotel Hershey, you’ll find a network of three interconnected trails that offer a variety of surfaces and scenic views. The Kiss Path is a 1.4-mile paved loop with views of the hotel’s beautifully manicured gardens. Brooks Valley Run is a gentle 1-mile nature trail, perfect for a quiet stroll. For a more rugged experience, Mountain Ridge Pass offers about 3 miles of dirt trails through the wooded hills above the hotel, giving you a peaceful escape into nature – note: while most of these recommendations are stroller-friendly, this dirt trail is not.
A short drive from Hershey, the Conewago Recreation Trail begins near Old Trolley Line Park. Park by the playground and walk back to join this 5-mile crushed limestone trail that follows the Conewago Creek through farmland and forest. Flat and tree-lined, it’s ideal for those looking for a steady, peaceful walk. It also connects to the longer Lebanon Valley Rail Trail if you’re looking to extend your journey.
For those up for something a little further away, American Legion Koser Park in Bainbridge provides access to the White Cliffs of Conoy. This 1.5-mile paved path runs along the Susquehanna River and leads to dramatic white cliffs—remnants of an old limestone quarry—now offering a one-of-a-kind scenic overlook and photo opportunity.
If you’re visiting Harrisburg, take a walk along the riverfront and across the pedestrian bridge to City Island, which features several family-friendly attractions and offers beautiful views of the Susquehanna.
Of course, not every great walk requires a trailhead. Strolling the sidewalks of downtown Hershey and Hummelstown is a lovely way to enjoy small-town charm, explore local shops, and take in seasonal displays.
For those open to paid experiences, Hershey Gardens has a beautifully maintained walking environment. Paved paths wind through 23 acres of flowers and rare trees, plus there is a butterfly atrium in the entrance building. Each loop on the main path is about ¾ of a mile, making it easy to tailor your walk to your pace. Similarly, although Hersheypark is best known for its rides, its extensive network of walkways lets you enjoy the energy of the park on foot—even if you’re not planning to hop on a roller coaster.
No matter your preference—wooded trails, shady stroller-friendly paths, or charming sidewalk strolls—there are plenty of ways to get out and walk in and around Hershey.