Ephrata, PA is a peaceful small town offering gentle hiking, biking, paddling, and bird watching amid Amish farmland and historic sites. Perfect for outdoor travelers seeking low-key adventure with rural charm.
Ephrata, PA is a peaceful small town offering gentle hiking, biking, paddling, and bird watching amid Amish farmland and historic sites. Perfect for outdoor travelers seeking low-key adventure with rural charm.
Outdoor Adventure in Ephrata, Pennsylvania
Ephrata, Pennsylvania, offers outdoor enthusiasts a quiet escape with scenic rural landscapes and historic landmarks. This small town is known for easy-going hiking, biking, and paddling opportunities that appeal to nature lovers looking to explore Pennsylvania Dutch country.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Ephrata, Pennsylvania, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Ephrata, Pennsylvania.
⌖ 8.9 miA traditional, 10-minute horse-drawn carriage ride through the park’s holiday lights — this guide explains where to board, what to bring, and the event's weather and refund policies.
⌖ 9.6 miA 2.5-hour full farm tour from Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides that pairs rural carriage time with your choice of Riehl's Quilts & Crafts or an Amish roadside stand—this guide explains what you’ll see and the booking essentials.
⌖ 9.6 miA private, two-hour buggy ride from Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides that visits Riehl's Quilts and a country roadside stand—this guide details the stops, logistics, and what to expect.
⌖ 9.6 miA 30‑minute horse-and-carriage tour through an authentic Amish farming community — this guide helps you plan arrival, waivers, and what you’ll see along the way.
⌖ 9.6 miA 60‑minute private, horse‑drawn carriage ride through an all‑Amish farming area—this guide explains what you will pass and the practical steps to prepare.
⌖ 9.6 miA concise, Sunday‑only 30‑minute buggy tour through an exclusively Amish district that offers a rare window on farms, schoolhouse life and possible church gatherings.
⌖ 9.6 miA 90-minute private ride with Jessica from Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides that explores Amish and Mennonite health practices and includes a stop at a well-known Amish health food store.
⌖ 10.8 miA two-hour, guide-led evening tour in a two-person Smart Cabrio through the back roads of Southern Lancaster County to hear local folklore and haunted tales.
⌖ 11.8 miChoose a Premium or Classic bus tour from The Amish Farm and House for a narrated ride through Lancaster County’s backroads, plus access to a 15‑acre farm and optional historic farmhouse tour.
⌖ 11.8 miA focused, 3-hour guided experience by loKal Experiences that visits private Amish farms and businesses and delivers expert history and cultural context.
⌖ 13.1 miA 3.5–4 hour guided scooter tour that threads rolling Lancaster County farmland with hands‑on cultural encounters—this guide tells you what to expect and how to be ready.
⌖ 13.1 miA two-hour fundraising scooter ride through Lancaster County that includes an ice-cream stop and donates 100% of proceeds to the volunteer Strasburg Fire Company.
⌖ 13.1 miA guided, 2.5–3 hour tour with Strasburg Scooters that threads backcountry lanes around Strasburg and the Village of Intercourse to reveal Amish farmland, off‑the‑beaten‑path shops and regional treats.
⌖ 13.1 miA 1.5-hour guided ride on easy scooters or 4‑wheel Smart Cabrios through Lancaster County’s back roads and a 19th‑century covered bridge, ending with a $10 brunch voucher—this guide lays out logistics, vehicle choices and what to bring.
⌖ 13.1 miA guided scooter tour from Strasburg that threads Southern Lancaster County back roads to visit historic covered bridges, ideal for planning timing, meeting logistics, and what to bring.
Make the most of your visit to Ephrata, Pennsylvania with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Ephrata, Pennsylvania hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Ephrata, Pennsylvania during the iconic Ephrata Fair. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Ephrata, Pennsylvania during the iconic Ephrata Farmers Market. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Ephrata, Pennsylvania during the iconic Conestoga Valley Trail Runs. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Ephrata, Pennsylvania is surrounded by incredible protected natural lands offering pristine trails, wildlife habitats, and wilderness conservation.
White Clay Creek State Park in Delaware offers abundant opportunities for outdoor activities across its scenic landscapes, featuring lush forests and pristine waterways.
Brandywine Creek State Park offers a rich tapestry of rolling meadows and rich forested areas, perfect for a wide range of outdoor activities including hiking and birdwatching.
Gunpowder Falls State Park is one of Maryland's largest state parks, offering a rich array of ecosystems and outdoor activities. It's known for its scenic rivers, dense forests, and miles of trails ideal for hiking and biking.
Hickory Run State Park is a sprawling state park located in the western foothills of the Pocono Mountains. Known for its unique Boulder Field, this park offers diverse recreational activities in a scenic setting.
Bring insect repellent in warmer months for trail activities.
Local roads may have Amish buggies—ride cautiously when biking.
Early spring and fall provide the best conditions for outdoor activities.
Parking at community parks is generally free and accessible.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Ephrata, Pennsylvania. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.