Ellendale Trailhead for Rattling Run Trail - Dauphin, PA
Ellendale Trailhead for Rattling Run Trail Dog-Friendly Hiking in Dauphin, PA
Located at the base of scenic Peter’s Mountain, the Ellendale Trailhead for Rattling Run Trail offers dog lovers and outdoor enthusiasts a peaceful escape into nature. This dog-friendly park in Dauphin, Pennsylvania features a network of well-maintained, gravel and forest hiking trails with varying degrees of elevation and stunning views of the Susquehanna River. The trails are mostly shaded, making hikes comfortable even in the warmer months, and offer plenty of wildlife encounters for both you and your pet.
While there isn’t a designated fenced dog area, dogs are welcome on the trails when leashed and can enjoy a variety of natural experiences, from creekside walks to breathtaking mountain vistas. The park is ideal for those seeking pet-friendly hiking in Dauphin, PA, as it connects with the Appalachian Trail for even more adventure. Parking is available but can be limited during busy times, so plan ahead. The peaceful surroundings, combined with accessible amenities for outdoor activity, make this a top destination for dog owners looking to explore the beauty of Pennsylvania’s forests with their pets.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs must remain on-leash while using the trails.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced area for dogs at this location.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs should be kept on-leash at all times while on the trails.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, most of the trails are shaded by a forest canopy except at the very top.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, several hiking trails including connections to the Appalachian Trail are accessible from this trailhead.
- Where is the best place to park? There is a small parking area at the trailhead; parking is limited so come early during popular times.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Ticks, rattlesnakes, and other wildlife like deer and bears have been seen; stay alert and check pets after visiting.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The park is generally quiet but can see increased traffic during peak times, especially with hikers.
Reviews
The rattling run trail is pretty steep and is uphill only for its first 2 miles!! I think it’s very much worth it if you are in shape. The views are great and the gravel trail is well maintained. Parking can be limited but if you look around you should be good.
The rattling run trail is pretty steep and is uphill only for its first 2 miles!! I think it’s very much worth it if you are in shape. The views are great and the gravel trail is well maintained. Parking can be limited but if you look around you should be good.
The trail is on a steep incline, but if you’re heading to the fire tower, the view is worth the near death experience I’m sure you’ll encounter on the way up.
The trail is on a steep incline, but if you’re heading to the fire tower, the view is worth the near death experience I’m sure you’ll encounter on the way up.
Keep going straight to get to the trailhead, do not bear left onto Rattling Run as the directions will tell you to (Learned that the hard way). The trail is a bit rocky, if you are using a bike or stroller make sure it’s an appropriate one
Keep going straight to get to the trailhead, do not bear left onto Rattling Run as the directions will tell you to (Learned that the hard way). The trail is a bit rocky, if you are using a bike or stroller make sure it’s an appropriate one
Took horses. Saw bear, rattlesnake and deer. Very peaceful. Mostly shaded except for the top. Parking area is not big enough to circle a horsetrailer if there are already there. We parked at the loop where the blacktop ends and rode in.
Took horses. Saw bear, rattlesnake and deer. Very peaceful. Mostly shaded except for the top. Parking area is not big enough to circle a horsetrailer if there are already there. We parked at the loop where the blacktop ends and rode in.
Awesome place to hike. Very quiet and a lot of wildlife. Fairly steep incline and a great workout. Also saw a timber rattlesnake sitting on the side of the trail.
Awesome place to hike. Very quiet and a lot of wildlife. Fairly steep incline and a great workout. Also saw a timber rattlesnake sitting on the side of the trail.