YOU SHOULD SEE OUR WILD SIDE
From bald eagles to endangered butterflies, sprawls of wildflowers to the yellow fringed orchid, Lebanon Valley is home to a wide selection of wildlife. Relish in the abundance of flora and fauna while you explore our expansive woods and streams, or admire some of the largest and oldest trees in the state. No matter which trail you travel, natural wonders are around every turn in the Lebanon Valley.
Coleman Memorial Park
Lebanon, PA - Once a grand estate of the Coleman Family with mansions, stables, an ice-house, and gate house, Coleman Memorial Park lives on today as a community-focused park with an amphitheater, ball fields, and playgrounds.
Lebanon Valley Rail Trail
Multiple Trailheads, PA - This mixed-use greenway offers users of all ages and abilities the opportunity to explore the social and industrial history of our area, all while enjoy the great outdoors!
Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area
Stevens, PA - Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area, spanning 6,254 acres, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Home to pheasants, deer, and countless migratory birds, it features a 400-acre lake, marshes, and trails for observing flora and fauna. Enjoy picnic areas, a driving tour, and visitor maps available at the Middle Creek Welcome Center.
Quittapahilla Creek & Nature Park
Annville, PA - The Quittie Creek Nature Park has become a point of interest in Annville and an attraction for Lebanon County and beyond. Its central walking path meanders beside the spring-fed Quittapahilla Creek, a restored trout stream.
Regal Fritillary
Annville, PA - Fort Indiantown Gap is home to the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly, the only population in the U.S. This grassland-endemic species thrives due to the military regime's land management, which maintains early-successional grassland habitats.
Sand Siding Trail
Jonestown, PA - Sand Siding, a historical stop along the former Lebanon & Tremont Railroad, is now part of the scenic Swatara State Park. Located just a 5-minute walk from the Sand Siding Trailhead, this trail features four connected bridges over Swatara Creek, offering near tree-top views of local birds and vernal ponds.
Second Mountain Hawk Watch
Fort Indiantown Gap, PA - Discovered by Morris Cox in 1983, Second Mountain Hawk Watch is a premier birding destination. Offering panoramic views of Fort Indiantown Gap and Stony Valley, it's a prime spot for observing migratory hawks from late August to December. Birders can spot sharp-shinned hawks, harriers, bald eagles, and golden eagles.
State Game Lands 211
Jonestown, PA - Explore the 44,343-acre State Game Lands 211. Hike a 1/4 mile on Stony Valley Rail Trail from Gold Mine Road, then head north to discover American Beaver dams. Spot wildlife like Red-Spotted Newts, Barred Owls, and Deer amidst diverse mosses and ferns in Lebanon Valley's wilderness.
Snow Goose & Waterfowl Migration Itinerary
Get to Know our Geese!
February and March mark the annual snow goose migration in Lebanon County. You can view the snow geese, tundra swans, and more at Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. The PA Game Commission says that the best times to view snow geese on the lake are sunrise, before they leave to feed in neighboring fields and sunset, as they return from feeding to roost.
This itinerary is the must-have companion when visiting the Lebanon Valley to view the snow geese. It recommends local dining, history, and attractions that you and your family can experience during your visit. Pick one up at the Visit Lebanon Valley Welcome Center or the Visitors Center at Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area.
Looking for more from our wild side? Check out these blogs!
Snow Geese Migration: A Local Phenomenon
From approximately mid-February to mid-March, large patches of snow seem to appear on farm fields in Lebanon County. This wouldn’t be too abnormal, except these patches of snow move, even fly! Usually snow falls down, not up. That’s because this snow I’m talking about is actually large groups of birds – snow geese.
Top Waters to Fish in the Lebanon Valley
The Lebanon Valley is well known for its fertile soils, bustling businesses, and friendly, small-town atmosphere. But the tranquil waters within reach of any resident or visitor are just as noteworthy, as they offer exceptional opportunities to recharge and recreate...
