Explore Almost 20 Miles of Trails in Chester County

The 1,784-acre Marsh Creek State Park sits in north central Chester County, PA, near Downingtown. The focal point of the park is the 535-acre Marsh Creek Lake which offers fishing and boating, as well as 19.5 miles of hiking trails in the surrounding area.

Marsh Creek Lake was created by damming Marsh Creek in the early ‘70s and is one of the few lakes in the commonwealth to sit above the remnants of a town beneath the surface. What’s left of Milford Mills (the roads, foundations and the embankments of Larkin’s Bridge) can be found 30 to 50 feet beneath the surface. (The buildings were removed before flooding the area.)

There are lots on both the east and west side of the park with trailheads at both locations, which are shared with mountain bikers and equestrians. A horse stable and a 24-hour boat launch can also be found on the west side. Marsh Creek Lake is also a popular place for birdwatchers; the park has put together a handy checklist of the birds seen in the park.

While there are good hiking options from either lot, the western side has more options. From the parking lot near the west launch, heading into the woods, you can head off on the 4-mile White Trail (considered the easiest hiking in the park), but can also access the more difficult Blue and Green trails via small connector trails. Even further northwest, the Lime Loop branches off the Blue Trail.

On the eastern side of the lake you can explore the Park Road Trail (the easiest hiking in the park) and the Red Trail. The most challenging hiking in the park is the Yellow Trail, which begins at the Dorlan Mill Road lot.

Note that hunting and trapping are permitted in the park during state-established seasons — use caution and consider wearing orange for extra safety. (An orange bandana might be a good idea for your pup too!)