Welcome!
They say that time travel isn’t possible, but you’ll soon discover that the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail transports you to a different era entirely. The beautiful landscape of Amish farmland and old industrial buildings grants this trail a uniquely nostalgic quality as it winds its way from Lewisburg in the east to Mifflinburg in the west—a total of about 10 miles. You’ll make your way along a flat pathway whose surface varies from smooth asphalt at either end to crushed gravel in the middle section. Along the way, you’ll appreciate the historical signage and picturesque views, including both open fields and lush vegetation. Plus, enjoy the abundance of trailside eateries, from local farm stands to the Purple Cow ice cream shop to Earl’s Bicycle Cafe. And there’s even more to explore at both trailheads. Lewisburg is the home of Bucknell University (go Bison!), while Mifflinburg houses a historical marvel: the Hassenplug Covered Bridge, the second-oldest covered bridge in America, and the oldest that’s still in operation. The Mifflinburg trailhead is also adjacent to the ever-popular Rusty Rail Brewing Company. If you end here, stop by for some cool refreshments.
This quaint little trail traces its history to the Lewisburg Centre and Spruce Creek Railroad, which was established in 1853 to connect Montandon (just east of Lewisburg) to Bellefonte in the west. This particular railroad got off to a rocky start, with the outbreak of the Civil War and the devastation of the 1865 Saint Patrick’s Day Flood casting its future in doubt. However, the railway survived, and it was rebranded as the Lewisburg and Tyrone Railroad in 1879. It ran for more than a century under this new name, until nearby highways like PA-45 eventually rendered it obsolete. The railroad shut down for good in 1982, and the route remained closed until the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail first opened in 2011. An additional extension into downtown Lewisburg was completed in 2015.
Even a historical site like the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail is not immune to change. In fact, plans are currently in place to expand the trail further east; With the eventual rehabilitation of the old rail bridge, the BVRT will reach the eastern side of the Susquehanna River and will connect to a proposed trail running north to Milton. Until then, there’s more than 10 great miles of Buffalo Valley to explore.
Hours: The trail remains open from dawn to dusk.
Caution: The trail passes through active farmland, including 7 farm crossings. Be aware that farm vehicles use these crossings and can present a safety hazard to trail users—same goes for ordinary road crossings, too.
Animals: Feeding farm animals without permission is strictly prohibited.
This trail is managed by the Union County Trail Authority. For more information, visit the Union County Trail Authority Website. Contact the Trail Authority at contact@unioncountytrails.org.
Lewisburg (Eastern Terminus): From Lewisburg, take Market Street west to cross US-15. After crossing US-15, continue on West Market Street for 0.4 mile. Turn right onto North 15th Street. Parking will be on the right, almost immediately after Wilson Alley.
Mifflinburg (Western Terminus): Located in Mifflinburg. At the corner of 10th Street and Chesnut Street, go north on 10th Street. The trailhead will be on the right.
