Best Dog Walking Trails in Elizabethtown PA

Living in Elizabethtown PA means you and your dog have access to some great outdoor spaces. Whether you're looking for a quick neighborhood loop or a longer hike through Lancaster County, there are plenty of dog-friendly trails and parks worth exploring.

As a professional dog walker who logs miles every day across the Elizabethtown area, I've gotten to know the best spots firsthand. Here are my top picks for walking your dog in and around Elizabethtown.

Elizabethtown Community Park

The Elizabethtown Community Park on East Orange Street is the go-to spot for local dog owners. The paved paths are well-maintained and loop through open fields and shaded areas. It's flat and accessible, making it suitable for dogs of all ages including senior dogs who need gentler exercise.

The park gets busy on weekend mornings, so if your dog is reactive or prefers quieter walks, try visiting on weekday afternoons.

Conoy Canal Trail

This scenic trail follows the old canal towpath near Bainbridge and offers a peaceful, shaded walk along the Susquehanna River. It's mostly flat and packed gravel, perfect for dogs who love to sniff along the water's edge. The trail is usually uncrowded, which makes it a good option for dogs who need more space.

Chickies Rock County Park

Located just outside Columbia, Chickies Rock offers more challenging terrain with wooded trails and stunning overlooks of the Susquehanna River. This is ideal for high-energy dogs who need a real workout. The trails can be rocky and steep in sections, so it's best for dogs with good mobility and stamina.

Keep your dog leashed on all trails here, the cliffs are real and the drop-offs can be dangerous.

Lancaster Junction Recreation Trail

This rail-trail runs from Landisville toward Salunga and is great for longer walks on a flat, crushed-stone surface. It passes through farmland and wooded areas, giving your dog plenty of interesting smells. The trail is shared with cyclists, so keep your dog on a short leash in busier sections.

Northwest Lancaster County River Trail

Starting in Falmouth and running along the Susquehanna, this paved trail offers beautiful river views and a smooth walking surface. It connects several small communities and is popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists. Dogs love the river breezes and the variety of terrain along the route.

Mount Gretna Nature Trail

A short drive from Elizabethtown, Mount Gretna's Governor Dick observation tower area has miles of woodland trails. The shaded paths stay cool even in summer, and the varying elevations give active dogs a solid workout. It's a great destination for weekend adventures.

Tips for Dog Walking on Local Trails

• Always carry water. especially during Central PA summers when temperatures climb. Bring a collapsible bowl.
• Watch for ticks. Lancaster County is prime tick territory from spring through fall. Check your dog thoroughly after every trail walk.
• Pick up after your dog. bring extra bags. It's the law and it keeps trails open for everyone.
• Know your dog's limits. not every dog needs a 5-mile hike. If you see signs your dog needs more exercise, start gradually and build up distance.
• Keep your dog leashed. even well-trained dogs can be startled by wildlife or other dogs on trails.

When You Can't Walk Your Dog

Work schedule, travel, or bad weather sometimes makes it hard to get your dog their daily exercise. That's where professional dog walking comes in. A regular walker keeps your dog active, socialized, and happy even when you can't be there.

Need a reliable dog walker in Elizabethtown? Contact Big Mike's Pet Sitting for professional dog walking services throughout Elizabethtown, Mount Joy, Hershey, and Lancaster County. We'll keep your pup active and happy while you're busy. Call (223) 221-1872 for a free consultation.