Nature's Playground at Governor Dick Park in Mount Gretna
Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania, known for its charming cottages, vibrant arts scene and tranquil lakes, is also home to the scenic Governor Dick Park. This 1,105-acre expanse of natural beauty offers a wealth of history and diverse recreational activities, providing a serene escape into the lush landscapes of Lebanon County, about 15 minutes from the Londonderry Inn and Estate in Palmyra.
Governor Dick Park takes its name from a slave who worked on the mountain producing charcoal used in iron furnaces in the late 1700s. Fast forward to the 20th century, when Clarence and Evetta Schock purchased 1,105 acres on the mountain between 1934 and 1940. Upon his death, Clarence Schock donated the land with the vision of preserving it for public enjoyment and environmental education. Today, it's officially known as Clarence Schock Memorial Park at Governor Dick in his memory. His generosity created a space that has since become a beloved community resource.
Governor Dick Park boasts 16 miles of well-maintained, forested trails that cater to hikers, mountain bikers and nature lovers. These trails wind through picturesque woodlands, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The park is also home to an Environmental Center, which provides educational programs and activities aimed at promoting environmental stewardship and awareness. From guided nature walks to hands-on workshops, and even music on the porch, the center is a hub for learning and exploration.
The park's pinnacle, a 66-foot observation tower built in 1954, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. The top of the concrete structure is accessible via a moderately challenging trek where hikers are rewarded with a 360-degree vista that stretches as far as the eye can see. On clear days, visitors can glimpse of the distant Blue Mountain range and the rolling hills of Central Pennsylvania in five counties. We promise, the climb is well worth the effort for its unparalleled vantage point to appreciate the area's natural beauty.
A recent addition to the park is the new 315-foot boardwalk, designed to enhance accessibility and allow more visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Governor Dick. This thoughtfully constructed ADA-compliant pathway meanders through the forest with overlooks rising 16 feet in the air, offering a unique perspective on the park's flora and fauna and pristine boulder fields.
For the more adventurous, Governor Dick Park is a bouldering paradise. If you're not familiar, bouldering differs from traditional rock climbing in that it involves less by way of equipment and altitudes: those who boulder scale rock faces no more than 20 feet high without a harness or rope. The park's numerous rock formations and diabase boulders provide a perfect playground for climbers of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned boulderer or a novice looking to try your hand at this exciting sport, the park's varied rock faces make for a challenging yet exhilarating climbing experience.
This December, Governor Dick Park will host its inaugural Tame the Tower Trail Challenge. There will be three different distances (5k, 10k, 10 mile) to appeal to every runner, hiker and walker. All of the proceeds of this race will be going right back into the park. These much-needed funds will help with trail maintenance, park safety measures and the betterment of the Environmental Center.
Governor Dick Park in Mount Gretna is more than just a park—it embodies the enduring value of nature conservation and community spirit. Whether you're hiking the trails, climbing the boulders or simply taking in the view from the observation tower, the park offers a wealth of experiences and adventures for all who visit.
