Reminder: In general, the Horse-Shoe Trail is open from dawn to dusk at the request of our landowners and townships. We discourage using the trail after dark, and especially running on the trail after dark, due to the increased risk of injury. In addition, Hunters may be active in many areas through which the trail passes.

Horse-Shoe Trail volunteers have been busy. See the new 2018 Guidebook updates in the Re-route section. This is in addition to clearing the many trees thrown into the trail this summer, and doing our best to keep vegetation cut back.

Due to Isaias, there are many trees down on the Horse-Shoe Trail making it harder to hike and in some cases impossible to ride. We will clear them as soon as we can. If you wish to tell us about a blow down, please send an email to info@hstrail.org with the location and size of the blowdown. We like details on location. (How far from what access point is it? Or Map # and mile) Thanks for being our best scouts.

New Home under construction at Trailside West Cocalico Township Lancaster county (Map 5 m 12.4). Trail is open but proceed with caution!!!! Walk horses! NO parking on Trailside Dr. until further notice.

Dear Trail Community,

We understand that getting outdoors helps us cope with the current COVID-19 health crisis and the big changes we have all had to make in our everyday lives. While using the Horse-Shoe Trail please keep in mind that so much of our trail traverses private property. It is important to not create extra stress for our landowners while you are reducing your stress on the trail. With that in mind- take care when parking. Use designated lots/areas, don’t park on private roads or park illegally. All dogs should remain on leash and owners are responsible for cleaning up and removing their pet’s waste. For your own safety and the safety of others, practice social distancing, don’t hike in groups. Be a good guest. When you encounter a property owner extend a friendly hello and thank them for hosting us on their land. 

Parking at the Great Valley Nature Center (Map 1, mi 6.5) is closed until further notice. Hikers/equestrians can park at Rees Rd parking area. Hikers can also park on the north side of Charlestown Elementary School.

NEW: Primitive Campsite (Berks County, Robeson Township, in Pa Bureau of Forestry woods, near Map 4’s re-routed trail section just southeast of Buck Hollow Road.)
The Buck Hollow Campsite is a one night, first come/first serve, max 2 tent area, with a picnic table, and water nearby.
Backpacker camp stoves recommended.
Leave no trace!

Help to support the efforts of the Horse-Shoe Trail Conservancy by becoming a member, or renewing your membership.  You can do that right here at the “Contribute” Tab of this site.

The U.S. Department of the Interior has designated a 17.4 mile section of the 140 mile Horse-Shoe Trail a “National Recreation Trail”. Join us Saturday August 2, 2014 for a dedication and establishment day celebration at Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site at 11:00 am. See details below.

To order a guidebook and maps e-mail  infoHSTrail.org  or send check for $15 with your request to:
Horse-Shoe Trail Conservancy Inc.
P.O. Box 2226
Southeastern, PA 19399

Or check with your local outdoor outfitter.

We do not yet offer an on-line ordering system, but it is coming…