Kellys Run Nature Preserve
- Dec 26, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Street Road | Martic Township
This hike can be challenging at times, but the amazing scenery more than makes up for it. Kellys Run is part of the Lancaster Conservancy and a portion of the trail serves as a section of the Conestoga Trail. The main trail follows and crosses over a tranquil stream (Kellys Run) as you climb across boulders and meander through rhododendrons. Another portion of the trail takes you through an open field. On a sunny day it makes you feel like you are at the top of the world.
The preserve is also host to an innovative project that is turning 14 acres of an abandoned community park into a pollinator and wildlife habitat. The Pollinator Park is a refuge for native bees and pollinators including the rare monarch.
This trail has become very popular over the last few years. Probably because, in my opinion, it's the best trail in the county. So expect crowds, especially on the weekends. It's also a great place in the summer if you are looking to do some creek stomping. There are several deep pools that are perfect for cooling off.
Distance: 4.5 miles of trails
Time: 1 3/4 to 3 1/2 hrs
Terrain: dirt | rocks | water | paved | grass
Difficulty: medium well to well
Activities: hiking | trail running | creek stomping
Website: lancasterconservancy.org
Kellys Run Loop Trail | 3.8 mile loop | blue blaze
Medium Well/ Well | 1 ½ to 2 ½ hrs
This is a great trail for a work out. The many types of terrain add to the challenge. I like to start the trail to the right of the pavilion, going counter clockwise. The first half is mostly shaded and takes you downhill. There are multiple stream crossings and you do have to climb over some pretty big rocks. Halfway through the hike you will come to a bare bones abandoned bridge. DO NOT CROSS THE BRIDGE. The trail is to the left of the bridge and crosses over the stream. The second half is where you are able to push yourself. Hiking up the paved utility road is not for the faint of heart. It also feels like you are in a scene from the Walking Dead (don’t worry I haven’t seen any zombies, yet). If you hike this trail in late summer you can also enjoy amazing wild wine berries.
There are also 2 connector trails that will take you to the Pinnacle Overlook. The white trail is .3 miles and a gradual climb and the Conestoga Trail (orange) is .3 miles and is straight up a rock wall. It's tough, but a good challenge.
Meadow Connector Trail | .3 miles point to point | yellow blaze
Medium Rare | 10- 20 min
This grass trail takes you through Pollinator Park connecting to the Kellys Run Loop trail in the woods.
Woodland Connector Trail | .3 miles point to point | red blaze Medium | 10- 20 minutes
This trail is essentially a shortcut for the Kellys Run Loop. It cuts out the gorge section of the loop. The incline is a little steeper, but not even close to going in and coming out of the gorge.
Pollinator Trail | .1 miles point to point | white blaze
Medium Rare | 5-10 minutes
This little trail is perfect for before or after your big hike. It takes you through the pollinator meadow that is on the right side of the parking lot.
Directions:
US 222 S/ PA 272 S (3.7 mi).
Straight on PA 272 S/Willow Valley Pike (8.6 mi)
Right on PA 372 W
Right to stay on PA 372 W (4.8 mi)
Right onto River Road (.4 mi)
Continue on Old Holtwood Rd. to Holtwood Recreation Area
Nearby Hikes:
Holtwood Nature Preserve
