French Creek Boone Trail Hiking Guide
French Creek State Park spreads across 7,730 acres of forest in Berks and Chester counties, and the Boone Trail is its signature loop. Blue blazes lead it up and down the wooded slopes around Hopewell Lake, with lake views from several heights and enough steep, rocky ground that the state rates it most difficult. It is the closest thing to a mountain day hike within easy reach of Philadelphia.
The Loop by the Numbers
DCNR gives the Boone Trail as a 6.0-mile loop marked with blue blazes, rated most difficult. Mapping apps list it a little longer, about 6.2 miles, with roughly 856 feet of gain over long gradual climbs and several short, steep, rocky sections. Most hikers pick it up near Hopewell Lake by the park office, where there is parking. Mapping apps estimate 2.5 to 3 hours of walking time.
Footing
The state warns that several steep, rocky sections call for sturdy footwear, and hikers' reports describe lots of loose stones and mud after rain. Trekking poles help on the descents. Mountain bikes are allowed only on roads and approved trails, and horses on the Horse-Shoe Trail, which crosses the park, so expect mostly hikers on the Boone itself. Cell coverage is unreliable here, so download the park map before you lose signal.
Hunting at French Creek
This is a hunting park. In season, hunting is allowed daily on about 6,000 acres, with migratory bird hunting off on Sundays, and rifles are prohibited in the Chester County portion. DCNR reminds visitors that hunters and hikers share the woods. From fall through winter, wear blaze orange, keep dogs in bright colors too, and stay on the marked trail.
Storm Damage Next Door
A March 16, 2026 windstorm hit Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, the federal site bordering the park, bringing down more than 200 trees and damaging a trail bridge. The NPS alert was still posted in late August 2026. The Boone Trail is a state park trail and no closure was listed for it when this guide was checked, but if you plan to link onto trails toward Hopewell Furnace, check the NPS conditions page first.
Fees, Dogs and Hours
There is no charge to enter or hike; Pennsylvania state parks do not collect entrance or day-use fees. Dogs may come along on a leash and must stay out of the swimming area. The park, at 843 Park Road in Elverson, is open every day from sunrise to sunset. The rest of the trail system is worth a return trip: the Six Penny Trail is a 3.4-mile loop on the west side, and the Mill Creek Trail adds another 6 miles.
Hiking tips for French Creek Boone Trail
- Wear boots with ankle support for the rocky climbs and loose stone.
- Download the park map before arriving; cell service is unreliable.
- Wear blaze orange from fall into winter, since about 6,000 acres are open to hunting.
- Start near the park office by Hopewell Lake, where parking is closest to the blazes.
- Check the Hopewell Furnace alerts page if you plan to link onto trails there.
Nearby trails to explore
- Mount Joy and Mount Misery Loop (Valley Forge)
- Hawk Mountain Lookout Trail
- Ridley Creek White Trail
Hike this trail with TrailMates
The Boone Trail is the hardest loop near the city, and a partner makes the rocky miles go faster. Use TrailMates to find Philadelphia hikers heading to French Creek State Park. Download the TrailMates app to connect.