Horse-Shoe Trail

The Horse-Shoe Trail is a hiking path that stretches roughly 140 miles through varied landscapes across the region. It connects Valley Forge with the Appalachian Trail near Harrisburg and offers many entry points for hikers of different experience levels.

The trail was established in 1935 and partly follows routes that indigenous peoples and early settlers used for trade. These historic paths were connected to form a unified system that exists today.

The trail passes through landscapes where Revolutionary War sites shape the character of the surroundings. Visitors encounter places connected to these historical events that help explain the region's identity.

Overnight camping requires careful planning due to restrictions along the route. Day hikes on individual sections are easy to plan and work well in most weather conditions.

A 17-mile section between Chester and Berks counties earned recognition as a National Recreation Trail for its special natural features. This portion demonstrates how the route preserves wild spaces within a populated region.

Location: Pennsylvania

GPS coordinates: 40.25440,-76.28470

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:42