Love Rock in Dauphin County is a popular spot to enjoy the scenic view of Lykens Glen and is the setting for a tragic tale of lost love.
Love Rock is an outcropping with a scenic view of Lykens Glen and Peter’s Mountain beyond. The trailhead can be tricky to locate since it begins in a neighborhood at the base of the mountain. The best way to get there is to park in the lot adjacent to the Lykens Glen Park baseball field at 40.563512, -76.697946.
From the parking lot, we crossed Cross Glen Park Road and took a footpath up the embankment to Park View Road. A street helpfully named “Love Rock Road” led to the back of the neighborhood. Guided by several signs, we found the trailhead proper at the end of the block at 40.56277, -76.69897. The trail runs on a paved alley and enters the woods at the sign pictured above. The beginning of the trail skirts private property, so please be respectful.
The trail climbs about 250 feet up the slope above Lykens Glen to Love Rock at 40.558127, -76.700321. From the outcropping, we enjoyed the views of the glen and ridges of Peter’s Mountain in the distance.
Overall, the out and back hike was 0.8 miles. Although not blazed, the trail was easy to follow, even with the autumn leaves having fallen.
The name “Love Rock” is based on a local legend recorded by Allen Barrett in his Lykens-Williams Valley History – Directory and Pictorial Review, published in 1922. The story begins on page 22 of the digitized book linked above. You can listen to a summary of the legend in our video. A short version of the legend was posted at the trailhead, although the paper was damaged, making parts difficult to read. The trail was vigorous but easy overall with a rewarding view. The trip takes less than an hour depending on your pace and is a worthwhile short excursion if you are in the area.
Be sure to check out our other adventures.
