The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail offers 19.6 miles of route traversing the scenic Lebanon Valley in Pennsylvania. The trail, divided into three separate sections, is predominantly composed of crushed stone surfacing. The exception is a four-mile stretch within the city of Lebanon, which has a paved surface. This trail, open to pedestrians, runners, mountain bikers, and equestrians, requires all users to adhere to clear rules of etiquette and safety.
Safety and Trail Etiquette
Since sections of the LVRT are shared by various user groups, namely pedestrians, cyclists, and horseback riders, safety is the main priority. The trail is available for use from dawn to dusk, and it is important to observe universal rules during this time.
Basic Trail Rules
- The movement of unauthorized motorized vehicles is strictly prohibited.
- Shooting firearms from or across the trail right-of-way is forbidden.
- Smoking, consumption of alcoholic beverages, and illegal drugs are prohibited on the trail right-of-way.
- All domestic animals must be on a leash, and owners are obligated to collect and remove their pets’ waste.
- Littering on the trail is strictly prohibited.
- All traffic signs must be observed, and respect must be shown to the owners of adjacent lands.
- Camping, making fires, and disturbing the natural features of the area are forbidden.
Rules of Etiquette
Trail etiquette is based on the principle of yielding, where the fastest and most maneuverable users yield to the slower and less controlled.
- Horses have priority: All trail users without exception must yield the right-of-way to horses.
- Pedestrians have priority: Cyclists and Class 1 electric bike users must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.
- Safe Overtaking: Users should keep to the right of the trail, except when passing. Before overtaking others, they must clearly announce their presence verbally.
Safety Guidelines
Horses: Horses are permitted on the trail from the northern boundary of Lancaster County to the Colebrook Trailhead. For the safety of riders, specially designated areas on the right side, outside the gravel portion of the trail, should be used. When encountering a horse, specific recommendations must be followed:
- If a horse and rider are approaching from the front, stop, move to the side of the trail, and stand where the horse can clearly see you until they pass.
- If approaching a rider from behind, verbally announce your presence. Approaching quietly may startle the animal.
- Dogs should be kept on a leash to prevent a sudden reaction from the horse.
- Children should stand still and speak quietly until the rider has passed.
E-Bikes: Class 2 and 3 e-bikes are prohibited on the LVRT. Only Class 1 e-bikes are permitted, which meet standards including:
- Weight up to 75 lbs.
- Electric motor power less than 750 watts.
- Full pedal functionality.
- Maximum speed up to 15 mph.
Helmets: The use of bicycle helmets is mandatory for children under the age of 12. All users are strongly recommended to wear helmets for overall safety.
Overview of the LVRT Route
The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail route is divided into several key sections, each offering unique landscapes and historical landmarks.
Northern and Intermediate Sections
The northernmost part of the trail consists of two short, currently isolated sections totaling approximately 3 miles. The first section is located between US-22 in Jonestown and PA-72 in Bunker Hill. The second section, slightly north of Lebanon, runs between Long Lane in Ebenezer and Union Canal Tunnel Park. The latter is a convenient access point, offering parking and picnic benches.
Central and Southern Main Line
The main and longest section begins in the city of Lebanon and extends southward. Lebanon is an excellent place to experience Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, sampling local delicacies such as Lebanon Bologna and Scrapple. The trail heads south from the Eighth Street trailhead, running 2.2 miles along US 422. This initial urban section is paved and passes by the Lebanon Valley Exposition Center & Fairgrounds. Continuing south, the trail leaves the city and follows a utility corridor to Zinns Mill Road. From here, it is another 1.7 miles to the Cornwall trailhead. Here, users can find an unusual landmark – a snack kiosk designed in the shape of a large root beer barrel.
Historical Sites and Natural Landscapes
Cornwall: This historic town was home to the Cornwall Iron Furnace, which operated from 1742 to 1883. The brick Gothic Revival iron furnace building has been preserved and is part of the National Historic Landmark District. To visit the town, trail users simply turn left onto Cornwall Road/Boyd Street, then right onto Boyd Street, walking only 0.6 miles from the trailhead.
Mount Gretna: Leaving the Cornwall trailhead, the route gradually climbs uphill, reaching Mount Gretna in approximately 4 miles. Here, the Conewago Creek flows into Lake Conewago. Mount Gretna is known for its preserved charm. It housed Coleman’s resort and a Chautauqua-style arts and educational center. Much of the original architecture and atmosphere of the town remain. A side path allows easy access to the town for a more detailed walk.
Colebrook: Continuing south, the trail descends 2.5 miles to Colebrook, where local establishments such as a drive-in theater and a tavern are located a few blocks away. Another half mile further, the trail intersects with the Horse-Shoe Trail – a well-known equestrian and hiking route stretching 140 miles between Valley Forge and Harrisburg. The final 4 miles of the route pass through farmlands, leading to the Lancaster County line. 
Trail Activities and Support
The LVRT is open for general use, but it also serves as a venue for numerous special events. Organizers regularly use the well-maintained trail for various activities, including school team runs, organized bike rides, and fundraising campaigns. The organization managing the trail sponsors several signature events:
- Root Beer Barrel Day: This event, celebrating the LVRT, uses the Cornwall Trailhead as a gathering spot, offering visitors the opportunity to purchase food and gifts at the large root beer barrel-shaped store.
- Adopt a Bench: This program offers trail supporters the opportunity to donate funds for the installation of a bench along the route, accompanied by a plaque honoring the donor.
- Adopt a Foot: This program allows for smaller donations that are directly used to improve the quality and maintenance of the trail.
These initiatives underscore the importance of public support for the continuous operation and development of the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail.