Kelly's Run via Conestoga Trail System(edit)

Overview

This is a moderate lollipop loop hike in Kellys Run Nature Preserve featuring a stream and a viewpoint.

Route Finding:
The Conestoga Trail starts on the far side of a field from the parking lot. It is easily followed down to the stream. There are a few stream crossings to negotiate, but shouldn't require wading. Just before getting to the river, the trail makes a sharp turn steeply uphill, away from the stream. This turn is well marked but can still be easy to miss. About half way up the hill, it connects into a rocky old fire road that heads once again steeply uphill. This section is not blazed and can cause confusion, though is hard to miss. The trail picks up at the top of the hill and follows the river upstream at the top of the cliff to the Pinnacle Overlook. Just past the Pinnacle Overlook, there is a rock outcropping that offers a similar view with additional isolation.

Options for a Loop Hike:
You can optionally come back via the Pinnacle Trail though it can be overgrown and is currently not blazed. Another potential option is to return on the Kelly's Run Return Trail, however, this trail is primarily through farm fields and is far less interesting than the Conestoga Trail.

This trail goes by Susquehanna River.

Getting Started

Parking:
Parking is at the PA 118 Lot.
Address: T397, Holtwood, PA 17532
GPS: 39.840837, -76.317086

When to Go:
The trail is open year round, but may be icy during the winter.

Taking Children

The elevation gain, distance, and rough terrain, make this a difficult hike for children 8 and under.