Directions: The trail is located about 12 miles west of
Harrisburg Pa and about 5 miles east of Carlisle. Several highway routes can be taken to
access the trail: the trail crosses US-11, and PA-641 between Carlisle and Mechanicsburg
and PA-174 at Boiling Springs. Additionally, the trail crosses PA Turn Pike (I-76) and
I-81( no access though) as well as several county/township roads at -2 mile intervals.
Road crossings are marked with brown and white signs and have shoulder or off road parking
at these points.
Trail Information: The trail is the Cumberland Valley portion
of the world famous Appalachain trail(AT). The C/V section covers about 20 miles crossing
the valley southweat to northeast between South Mountain and Blue mountain to the north.
The trail is unique and picturesque as it crosses rolling limestone ridges through farm
fields and beech/hickory/oak/cherry forests. The trail corridor is protected U.S.
National Park Service land. The trail is well maintained year round by volunteers of
the Cumberland Valley Appalachian Trail Club and administered by the Appalachian Trail
Club(ATC)Regional Office in Boiling Springs, PA. The trail is generally hard packed dirt
and mowed grass; only a few short sections are rocky. Some stiles must be climbed to get
over fences, foot bridges cross streams, and there is a pedestrian bridge over US-11 and
over the Condoguient Creek. Beautiful views of the mountains, farms fields and woodland
abound in all directions.
The trail passes through cow and horse pastures. deer, pheasant, turkey and other wildlife
are plentful to see in this no hunting area. The A/T is marked with white blazes and
is easy to follow. From south to north, water and food are available in Boiling Spring,
Goodenow Springs (filter)about 6 miles north at Ridge Road, and at the A/T's Scott Farm
barn's hand pump about 10 miles north of Boiling Springs. The trail is about 75% shaded in
summer but it is recommended that water be carried by runners. Trail running shoes are not
required nor is any special equipment. Be careful to avoid poison ivy, ticks and thorns
when venturing off the trail. In the summer, the trail is monitored by an A/T employeed
"Ridge Runner", and is frequented by "Thru-hikers going to Maine or
Georgia. No campling, fires, unleashed dogs, or bikes are allowed on the trail in the
valley. Problems should be reported to the A/T Regional Office in Boiling Springs.
Miscellaneous Information: This trail is excellent for beginning off road
runners or those seeking relaxing and scenic off-road running. The trail should be avoided
just after a rain storm due to slippery and sticky mud and likely damage to the trail foot
tread. The best running seasons are in the Spring and Fall. Summer running is best
done in the earrly morning or evening. Excellent out and back running can be done from
road crossings. Favorite runnings routes are from PA-641 south to Boiling Springs and
return- about 10 miles, Boiling Springs to the Scott Farm and return- about 20 miles, and
US-11 south to PA-641 and return about 8 miles. Shorter or longer runs can be developed
from any road crossing to any others. Since the trail and side berms are mowed or weed
wacked often, the trail is very user friendly. Short, rocky sections should be run at very
low speeds or walked to avoid falls. Attention should be directed to the immediate trail
ahead to avoid tripping. Long, grassy fields offer chances for speed work and hills offer
additional challenges. First timers are urged to run with a buddy. Crime is non-existant;
however, cars should be locked at trail heads. Boiling Springs offers restaurants for
after runnning eats. Lodging is available at bed and breakfasts (B/Bs) in Boiling Springs
or at Pheasant Fields B/B just west and north of the A/T crossing on PA 641. In summary,
the Cumberland Valley A/T is one of the best easy trail running areas in the nation.
Treat it with respect- practice no trace use- no littering, slit trench for body waste,and
look but don't pick the wild flowers. Berries in late June-early July are free for the
picking!
Volunteers are always sought and needed to help maintain the trail. Contact the C/V ATC in
Boiling Springs, PA. See you out running the C/V A/T!
Bob Goodenow