Scenic Beauty of Amish Country

September 15, 2015

Nothing beats the beauty of Lancaster County’s breathtaking
backroads where you can savor the

views of endless rolling hills of crops,
fields of wildflowers, historic covered bridges…and perhaps you might even stop
along the way for authentic homemade root beer or to pick up some fresh,
homegrown produce at roadside stands.

Whether you’re hiking or biking or just passing through, our
area’s backroads provide a memorable glimpse of the scenic beauty of Lancaster
County.
Here are a few resources to help you plan your backroads
adventure:

Backroads Through
Long Ago

At Trails.com,
you can view a topographical map of a driving tour and hiking trail that offer
ideas for recreational activities, unique shopping experiences, enjoyable
eateries, and more.

Amish Country Scenic
Drive

Just over three hours long, this 102-mile ride will take you into the historical heart of the county. View
countless barns, homes, and fields of the Amish. Take in the sights and join
others in the exploration of shops featuring handcrafted goods and wares of Lancaster
County. Travel through the town of Bird In Hand and onto Intercourse, another
town steeped in Pennsylvania Dutch culture.

Lancaster County Bike
Club

Historic landmarks throughout the Amish Country are
excellent starting points for bicyclists from all over. The Lancaster County
Bike Club recommends several rides you might consider:
Explore Ephrata
The Ephrata Cloister Museum suggests four rides that cover different areas of the town, including Kitchen Kettle
Village, the Strasburg Railroad, and more.
Landis Valley Farm
Museum
– This museum suggests five rides of rolling terrains, offering trails leading to ice cream shops,
a chocolate shop, and more. Bike through covered bridges and take in the
classic scenery of Landis Valley.
Lititz Spring Park
Start at Lititz Spring Park and choose from eight trails ranging from flat to very hilly terrains that provide
riders with sights like a 13th Century castle, the Cornwall Furnace
Museum, and Amish farmlands.
Pennsylvania Railroad
Museum
– Train and history lovers are sure to enjoy these eight trails that stretch all throughout the quaint are of Strasburg.
Clock and Watch
Museum
– This single trail
just under 19.5 miles is a lovely way to experience not only the farmlands but also
the historic architecture of Columbia and beautiful views of the Susquehanna
River.
No matter what path you choose, book your stay at the Historic Smithton Inn today, and
we’ll be happy to suggest some of our favorite historic and scenic backroads
and trails to make your visit an authentic Lancaster County experience. Happy
travels!

 

By Rebecca
Gallagher



Photo courtesy of Dawn Mentzer