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A hillside loop on the Turkey Hill Trail with a return on the rail-trail along the scenic Susquehanna River.


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Map Key

6.3

Miles

10.2

KM

94%

Runnable

586' 179 m

High

254' 77 m

Low

550' 168 m

Up

549' 167 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

31%

Max Grade (17°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views

Overview

This pleasant loop leads through meadows, woodlands, and along the scenic Susquehanna River. Begin above the Susquehanna River, descend to the Enola Low Grade Trail, and return via a steep climb - all with varied, spectacular views of the river valley.

Description

You can park at either lot at Chestnut Grove and make your way along the meadow trails to access the Turkey Hill Trail at the northwestern edge of the property. This route starts from the southernmost parking area and heads northwest after crossing a gated gravel road. Highlights include seasonal waterfowl at the large pond at Chestnut Grove, and often merlins, kestrels, and northern harriers can be seen hunting over the meadows.

As the trail enters the woods, it dips to Mann's Run (crossing is on rocks) and ascends again, steeply, to follow the top of the ridge as it parallels the river. To the east, the trail borders the LCSWMA landfill and affords interesting views of it and the two windmills on Turkey Point. As one emerges from the trees, runners may choose to head out across the lawn to the windmills and a scenic overlook with interpretive signage.

If you forego the windmills and overlook, a sign directs you back into the trees to your left. This relatively short steep trail leads to the parking area for the Enola Low Grade Rail Trail. Runners may then proceed along the Rail Trail for approximately 2.5 miles. This section of the Low Grade line is packed gravel with wonderful views of the Susquehanna River (technically Lake Clarke here) and the river cliffs.

A short connector trail that heads up the slope is marked, but with less-than-obvious signage. If you pass the small picnic shelter and bathroom, you've gone just a shade too far. The connector trail leads to the southern side of Chestnut Grove Natural Area. Turn left at the intersection at the top of the ridge - you'll leave the trees again, too - and proceed up a moderate slope to return to the large pond. A right turn at the first intersection, onto a gravel road, will return you to the southern parking area.

Contacts

Shared By:

Justin Evans

Trail Ratings

  3.6 from 7 votes

#4630

Overall
  3.6 from 7 votes
5 Star
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4 Star
57%
3 Star
43%
2 Star
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1 Star
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Recommended Route Rankings

#108

in Pennsylvania

#4,630

Overall
8 Views Last Month
3,128 Since Jan 1, 2017
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
17%
17%
67%
0%

Photos

Late summer wildflowers grace the Chestnut Grove Natural Area.
Jan 2, 2017 near Conestoga, PA
The Turkey Hill Trail begins and ends in a Chestnut Grove meadow.
Jan 2, 2017 near Conestoga, PA
Winter offers scenic views of the Susquehanna River while descending the Turkey Hill Trail.
Jan 2, 2017 near Conestoga, PA
View of the Veterans Memorial Bridge
Jul 22, 2020 near Conestoga, PA
The Turkey Hill Trail heads through a stream crossing before making a steep ascent.
Jan 2, 2017 near Conestoga, PA
Southbound on the Enola Low-Grade Trail
Jul 22, 2020 near Conestoga, PA

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