The Pinnacle, Pennsylvania
Total Distance: 5.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,100 feet
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Moderate
The Hike: This hike is not to be confused with The Pinnacle Overlook on the Appalachian Trail in Hamburg, PA.
If you’re looking for the perfect mix of wooded forest, babbling brooks, and a jaw dropping overlook, then this is the trail for you. The hike to The Pinnacle starts off unassuming with a gentle trail leading from the parking lot in the Kelly’s Run Nature Preserve. Within a few minutes though, this trail will lead hikers along a rocky route that travels along a flowing creek. Once intersecting The Conestoga Trail, hiker’s will be climbing up and above the Susquehanna River, with views of the water in between the trees.
The strenuous uphill suddenly feels worth the effort as the hike’s main attraction comes into view. Sit back, eat lunch, and reward your hard work with unobstructed views of both the river and neighboring mountains. This viewpoint is truly unique, and is a welcomed change from the farmland the covers much of the surrounding area.
The Details: Begin by parking in the lot at Holtwood Park (39°50'26.7"N 76°19'00.7"W). Follow the blue blazed Kelly’s Run Trail for about 1.2 miles, you will come to an intersection with the orange blazed Conestoga Trail. Follow this trail straight up the mountain for .5 miles until you see picnic tables and a few rock overlooks. After taking a break at the overlook, head back down the Conestoga Trail the way you came. Once at the intersection with the Kelly’s Run Trail, you can continue right to finish the 5.3 mile loop, or backtrack the way you came to cut the hike down to 3.4 miles.
If you’re feeling lazy, there is also a parking lot on top of the mountain right next to the overlook.
Gear: For this hike, we recommend bringing along either the Winter or Summer Day Hike Essentials, depending on the season.
*The information in this article is for planning purposes only. Actual trail conditions may vary depending on environmental factors. It is always advised to get the latest trail information from a park office or ranger before you begin your hike.