Lebanon Valley Rail Trail: Your Complete Guide to Walking, Biking & Exploring Lebanon County PA
By Carissa | Always Sunny in PA
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Some of the best outdoor adventures aren’t hours away — they’re right in your backyard. For those of us lucky enough to live in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania, the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail is exactly that kind of treasure. It’s our go-to spot for a weekend walk, a bike ride, or just a breath of fresh air without the need for a long drive or serious planning.
And if you haven’t discovered it yet? Let me change that right now.
What is the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail?
Built on the former Cornwall-Lebanon Railroad created by industrialist Robert H. Coleman in the 1880s, the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail runs 15 miles through Colebrook, Mt. Gretna, Cornwall, and the city of Lebanon.
In the old days, special passenger trains carried visitors to the popular summer resort community of Mt. Gretna. During the 1800s and early 1900s, the railroad also provided transport to the Pennsylvania National Guard training encampment near Mt. Gretna. Eventually passenger service ceased, and freight service continued until Hurricane Agnes washed out sections of the track in 1972. In 1999 Lebanon Valley Rails-to-Trails acquired the corridor to develop the multi-use trail we know and love today.
The Trail at a Glance
The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail covers approximately 14 miles and is considered an easy route — open year-round and perfect for mountain biking, trail running, and walking. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
The trail is mostly flat with only minor inclines around the Mt. Gretna area, making it incredibly accessible for all fitness levels. You’ll find trailhead parking at most road crossings, and the larger parking areas even have portable restrooms available.
The best part? It’s completely free!
Our Favorite Section: Colebrook to Mt. Gretna
While the full trail stretches from Elizabethtown all the way to Lebanon, our personal favorite section is the walk from Colebrook to Mt. Gretna. This stretch winds through some of the most beautiful scenery the trail has to offer — shaded forest paths, open meadows, and the gentle sounds of nature all around you.
It’s the perfect length for a casual morning walk or an easy bike ride without feeling like you’ve overcommitted. And the payoff at the end? A charming stop in Mt. Gretna that makes the whole journey worthwhile.
Don’t Miss: Mt. Gretna Coffee Cottage ☕
Here’s a new discovery that has quickly become one of our favorite trail rewards: Mt. Gretna Coffee Cottage, a brand new coffee shop that just opened in the charming village of Mt. Gretna.
After your walk from Colebrook, there is nothing better than settling in with a great cup of coffee in one of Pennsylvania’s most unique and picturesque little communities. Mt. Gretna itself is worth exploring — the Ice Cream Spur trail between milepost 6 and 7 connects the main Lebanon Valley Rail Trail to the quaint community, where a short walk through the former grounds of the Mt. Gretna Amusement Park provides access to all the village attractions including the famous Jigger Shop ice cream stand.
Whether you grab a coffee and head back on the trail or linger a while and explore the village — Mt. Gretna is a destination all on its own!
What Makes This Trail Special
It connects communities. The trail provides access from Elizabethtown in Lancaster County all the way through to Lebanon — passing through Lawn, Colebrook, Mt. Gretna, and Cornwall. It’s a genuine green corridor connecting the heart of Lebanon County!
It’s incredibly accessible. Whether you’re a serious cyclist logging miles or a family looking for a gentle nature walk with the kids, the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail welcomes everyone. The mostly flat terrain makes it especially great for beginners or anyone who just wants to enjoy the scenery without a strenuous workout.
It’s beautiful year round. Fall foliage season on the trail is absolutely stunning — the trees create a gorgeous canopy of color overhead. But honestly? Every season brings something new — spring wildflowers, summer shade, fall color, and crisp winter walks.
The history is fascinating. The trail traverses Pennsylvania Dutch Country and other scenic routes, passing through untouched woodlands, state gamelands, forests, and beautiful views of area fields and farms.
Nearby: Cornwall Iron Furnace
While you’re exploring the trail, the Cornwall Iron Furnace is an incredible stop just a short distance from the Cornwall trailhead. This iron furnace operated from 1742 to 1883, and the brick Gothic Revival building — part of a National Historic Landmark District — stands today much as it did the day it closed.
It’s a fascinating piece of Pennsylvania history that most people drive right past — don’t be one of them!
Bike Rentals Available!
Don’t have a bike? No problem! There is a small bike shop — Rails to Trails Bicycle Shop — within fifty yards of the Route 743 crossing that offers bike rentals, sales, and repairs. No excuse not to get out on the trail! 🚴♀️
Tips Before You Hit the Trail
- 🎨 Show your PA trail pride! Grab our Always Sunny in PA Sticker Sheet — perfect for your water bottle, hiking pack or laptop! 🌲!
- 🥾 Wear comfortable shoes — I walk in my Columbia Hiking Boots and they’re perfect for the trail surface!
- 💧 Bring water — especially in summer. My Hydro Flask keeps drinks cold all day
- 🐕 Dogs welcome — on leash please!
- 🚗 Parking is free at multiple trailheads along the route
- ☕ Grab a coffee at Mt. Gretna Coffee Cottage — the perfect trail reward!
- 🍦 Stop for ice cream at The Jigger Shop in Mt. Gretna — a beloved Lebanon County institution that’s been serving scoops for generations! Don’t skip it!
- 📱 Download the trail map before you go at the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail website
- 🚴 Need a bike? Rent one at Rails to Trails Bicycle Shop near the Route 743 crossing
Getting There
The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail has multiple access points throughout Lebanon County. Our favorite starting point for the Colebrook to Mt. Gretna section is the Colebrook trailhead — parking is available and it’s an easy find.
Starting point for our favorite section: Route 117, Colebrook, PA
Final Thoughts
The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail is one of those local gems that reminds you that you don’t always need to travel far to find something beautiful. It’s our go-to escape right here in Lebanon County — whether we feel like a quick 30-minute walk or a full morning of exploring on bikes.
If you live in Central Pennsylvania and haven’t discovered this trail yet, make this the weekend you finally do. And if you’re visiting Lebanon County from out of town, add it to your itinerary — the Colebrook to Mt. Gretna section paired with a stop at Mt. Gretna Coffee Cottage makes for a perfect Pennsylvania morning.
Have you walked or biked the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail? What’s your favorite section? Drop a comment below! 🚴♀️🌲
