Moraine State Park
Moraine State Park is a 16,725-acre Pennsylvania state park in Butler County featuring the massive 3,225-acre Lake Arthur with 42 miles of shoreline. Opened on May 23, 1970, the park was created on land once devastated by strip mining and has become a model of land reclamation and environmental restoration. The park offers 21 trails totaling over 30 miles, including the popular 14.7-mile paved Bike Trail that closely follows the lake shoreline. With over one million visitors annually, Moraine is one of Pennsylvania's most visited state parks, offering exceptional boating, fishing, hiking, and biking opportunities.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Moraine State Park: leashed dogs OK on trails and bike trail; no dogs on beaches; carry water, pick up waste.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Visitors rave: scenic paved 14.7-mile bike loop, excellent sailing on Lake Arthur, good fishing, varied trails, family beach, busy summers.
Tips from Visitors
- The 14.7-mile paved bike trail is excellent - but can be crowded on summer weekends, go early or on weekdays
- Lake Arthur has excellent sailing - the park hosts numerous regattas throughout the summer
- Sunken Garden Trail is the top-rated hike with 3.5 miles of moderate terrain
- Bike rentals are available at the marina if you don't have your own
- North Shore and South Shore have different access points - plan your route before arriving
- Photography is outstanding, especially sunrise and sunset over the lake
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Moraine State Park:
- Harmony Historic DistrictCharming historic village with shops, museums, and restored buildings7 miles away
- McConnells Mill State ParkScenic gorge with historic grist mill, whitewater rapids, and rock climbing8 miles away
- Jennings Environmental Education CenterNature center featuring prairie ecosystem and wildflower displays10 miles away
Things to Do at Moraine State Park
Camping at Moraine State Park
No overnight camping at Moraine State Park; day-use only. Reservable picnic shelters, grills and fire rings; nearby campgrounds available.
Hiking Trails
Moraine State Park Bike Trail
ModeratePaved trail meandering closely along Lake Arthur shoreline with gentle slopes. One of Pennsylvania's premier bike trails, suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Sunken Garden Trail
ModerateTop-rated trail in the park with varied terrain and excellent lake views. Well-maintained path through diverse ecosystems.
Glacier Ridge Trail
StrenuousMost challenging trail with 2,837 feet of elevation gain. Traverses ridges and valleys with remote forest sections. For experienced hikers only.
Moraine State Park East Loop
ModerateModerate loop on the east side of the lake with 954 feet of elevation gain. Good intermediate hike through varied terrain.
Directions
Moraine State Park is located in Butler County, approximately 1 hour north of Pittsburgh. From I-79, take Exit 96 (Prospect) and follow US Route 422 west for approximately 2 miles to the South Shore. For North Shore access, take Exit 99 (Portersville) and follow US Route 19 north to PA Route 488 west. From I-80, take Exit 29 (Grove City) and follow PA Route 208 south to US Route 422 east. The park has multiple entrances - follow signs for specific facilities. GPS coordinates: Pleasant Valley Road, Portersville, PA 16051.