Chickies Rock County Park is named after the large and towering quartzite rock that makes up the famous Chickies Rock overlook at the park. The old stone stands as a testament to the lively mining work that once filled the hills and curves of the park. Among the trees of Chickies Rock and between the trails are remnants of the world that once was: furnace stones, trolley remains, and more.
With history within your midst, don’t be afraid to start hiking along the many trails included in the park grounds.
Length: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Loop
The best part of this trail is the overhang that brings hikers out to a gorgeous site that overlooks the nearby areas.
Length: 8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out and back
This is a 15-mile-long trail that cuts its way through multiple parks, towns, and forests. A portion of the trail runs through Chickies Rock County Park and can be accessed through the public space for a brief hike or a long-running path.
Length: 55 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out and back
This trail splits in two, offering you a shorter hike if you just need to stretch your legs and a longer trail for those looking to get a little more exercise.
Length: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Semi Loop
Finding the entrance to this trail can be a little difficult, as during the warmer seasons, grass typically covers the start; however, it eventually evens out with a dirt path along the Chiques Creek.
There are three parking lots available on site at Chickies Rock. One parking lot is located along Old Chickies Hill Road, another is situated off 441, and the last one by Breezy View Overlook.
To find the right spot for you, review the park map for parking lots and trails.
Union Station Grill
Address: 173 S 4th St, Columbia
Driving distance: 5 minutes
Menu
Union Station Grill has a huge menu with seasonal dishes, sandwiches, and more. Planning a family fun trip to Chickies Rock? Union Station offers a kids' menu with meals perfect for your kiddos.
Local Tip: Plan your trip for a Wednesday to test your knowledge with the grill’s trivia night!
Hinkle’s Restaurant
Address: 261 Locust St, Columbia
Driving distance: 4 minutes
Menu
Hinkle’s Restaurant transports you to the time of doo wop with its vintage-inspired interior, based on the building’s history and the long past of a family-run business. Paired with their homey menu of 120 items is their classic soda fountain that you won’t want to miss.
Local Tip: Top off your delicious meal with one of their signature sundaes!
Railroad House Inn Restaurant
Address: 280 W Front St, Marietta
Driving distance: 6 minutes
Menu
Railroad House serves up a surf and turf menu with a wide selection of fish, ribs, steak, and more. Kick off their menu right with their yummy appetizers, like fried calamari, ricotta gnudi, and bacon gouda mac and cheese. Not to mention that grabbing a bite here means supporting the Lancaster community, as they prioritize local vendors for their menu.
Local Tip: Legs too tired from the Chickies Rock hikes? Railroad House is also an inn, so grab a room and enjoy Lancaster County for an extra day.
McCleary’s Pub
Address: 130 West Front Street, Marietta
Driving distance: 6 minutes
Menu
Looking for a casual spot to kick your feet up after all your hiking? McCleary's Pub brings the charm and the coziness with their warm atmosphere that is lit up by their live musical performers. Their menu of traditional Irish grub is certainly a great cherry to top off the McCleary experience.
Local Tip: Grab a table on their covered patio!
Turkey Hill Experience
Address: 301 Linden St, Columbia
Admission: $16.75-$29.75
Driving distance: 3 minutes
Ice cream lovers unite! The Turkey Hill Experience allows guests to make their own virtual ice cream flavors, build packaging for their tasty scoop, and market the product. With local experts ready to teach the history of ice cream and give you a peek behind the Turkey Hill curtain, this interactive experience is a deliciously fun time.
Local Tip: Grab tickets to the Taste Lab to craft your own ice cream in real life!
The National Watch and Clock Museum
Address: 514 Poplar Street, Columbia
Admission: $10-$40
Driving distance: 4 minutes
The National Watch and Clock Museum brings you behind the clock face to show the history, workings, and Lancaster's impact on the timepiece business. Turn back the clock and make the experience interactive by stepping into the museum’s recreation of an early 1900s clock and watch store.
Local Tip: The entire museum was built to accommodate wheelchairs! It’s totally accessible for any and all who want to stop by.
Zimmerman Center of Heritage
Address: 1706 Long Level Road, Wrightsville
Admission: Free
Driving distance: 12 minutes
A restored mid-18th-century home on the water, the Zimmerman Center of Heritage brings visitors back in time and right to the riverside. Also perfectly located for visitors to enjoy a hike through Native Lands Park and explore the waterfront.
Local Tip: Fan of water sports? The Zimmerman Center of Heritage gives access to boat ramps for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.
Boulders Miniature Golf
Address: 312 Primrose Ln, Mountville
Admission: $9-$10
Driving distance: 8 minutes
Family-friendly and fun for all, Boulders Mini Golf is a great way to wrap up a day of outdoor activities. Don’t miss out on the mini golf course with its water features, lush greenery, and putting challenges.
Local Tip: Purchasing Boulders Miniature Golf packages include ice cream along with your putter.
What’s the weather like at Chickies Rock?
Located in Pennsylvania, Chickies Rock experiences all four seasons and their accompanying temperatures and weather conditions. Be mindful when planning when to visit the county park.
What should I wear?
Keep the temperature in mind. Light, breathable clothing that can be worn in layers is recommended for the hiking trails. On sunnier days, pack a hat, as some portions of the park (like the overlook) expose you to direct sunlight.
Be sure to bring comfortable, stable shoes. Due to the dirt paths, rocks and roots can disrupt the levelness of the trails.
What should I pack?
Are there any park amenities on site?
There are no restrooms or pavilions on-site at this park.
Is Chickies Rock dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome at the park, but must remain on a leash while on park grounds.
Is Chickies Rock accessible?
There are areas that are accessible, like the Northwest Lancaster Trail, which is paved. However, other trails and parts of the park lean more into the natural, letting the trails remain unpaved and affected by nature. This creates inaccessible points at the county park.
Lace up your hiking boots and pack your bags for a stay in Lancaster County. Plan your trip now!
130 West Front Street Marietta, PA 17547 (717) 426-2225
280 W Front St Marietta, PA 17547 (717) 426-4141
312 Primrose Lane Mountville, PA 17554 (717) 285-7007
514 Poplar St Columbia, PA 17512 (717) 684-8261
1706 Long level Road Wrightsville, PA 17368 (717) 252-0229
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