We all love our cars. But taking a walk once in a while can do wonders for a person’s health. If you’re planning a hike, there are plenty of hiking trails and walking paths in the Butler, PA area, so you can enjoy some time in the great outdoors.
1. E. Bertrum & Esther J. Shaffer Trail
A short, paved trail that’s perfect for those looking for a short stroll, E. Bertrum & Esther J. Shaffer Trail is fun to walk and easy to access. Running through the campus of Butler Community College’s main campus, it’s open to all from dawn to dusk. Taking in beautiful scenery including nearby woods and hills, as well as passing through a field and by a pond, it’s a peaceful spot that’s perfect for a stroll on a summer evening.
Parking is available at any of the campus lots, with all except the south lot giving direct access to the trail. You can follow the path right around campus to form a loop. Be sure to follow any posted campus property rules.
2. Butler-Freeport Community Trail
One of the most popular walking spots in the area, the Butler-Freeport Community Trail offers folks from both towns a new way to connect with each other. Lying in the corridor of the Buffalo Creek Watershed, the trail follows an old railway line, the Western Pennsylvania Railroad, taking in beautiful forest scenery. In the warmer months, birdsong floats through the air and wildlife abounds in the trees, creating a truly serene atmosphere for a walk.
There are plenty of picnic tables, playgrounds, and rest areas along the way, so this trail is a perfect spot for a family day out. It’s also a venue hosting marathons, geocaching, and other events throughout the year, so check their website for details of upcoming events.
3. Trails at Moraine State Park
This vast park spreads over almost 17,000 acres and is full of gorgeous scenery. With more than 71 miles of trails, it’s perfect for a good walk too. Located a short drive northwest of Butler, it’s easily accessible for local folks.
With over 705 picnic tables spread across the park, there are plenty of places for you to stop and rest. Why not pack a lunch, bring the whole family, and make a day of your trip to the park?
4. Glacier Ridge Trail
This 17-mile trail is a real gem, offering a truly immersive hiking experience that will make you feel as if you’re trekking through the wilderness. The trail is well-maintained, and while there’s some mild elevation, it shouldn’t present many issues for an experienced hiker.
Visit on a clear fall day for the best results, when the foliage is in full bloom. The entrance is located in Porterville, a short drive from Butler. There’s a parking lot at the trailhead.
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