Chinqua-Penn Walking Trail

The historic Chinqua-Penn Walking Trail is packed with history and scenic beauty! This 1.6-mile trail winds through an old quarry, historic dam, and along pastures where Black Angus cattle—descendants of Jeff Penn’s prized 1940s herd—still graze (yes, the fence is electric!)

Once part of the 1,000-acre Chinqua-Penn Plantation, this land was home to Betsy and Jeff Penn, who built an innovative working farm in the early 20th century. Betsy later donated the land to the state in 1954, paving the way for the Research Station and the Betsy-Jeff Penn 4-H Center.

As you walk, you’ll pass historic remnants like an old quarry, a dam, a stew site, and structures built from locally quarried stone where the Penns entertained guests. Some sections of the trail follow farm roads and carriage paths dating back to the 1920s.

The trail itself was created in 1997 by Dr. Joe French and a dedicated group of volunteers. It’s still maintained by volunteers today, with all improvements funded by grants and donations. Want to learn more? Visit chinquapenntrail.org.

Accessibility Overview: Composed primarily of crushed stone and rock with occasional boardwalks, the trail averages about 60 inches wide and never narrows below 38 inches, making it friendly for wheelchairs, strollers, and similar mobility devices. The trail maintains a gentle average grade of approximately 3%, peaking at around 6%, with minimal cross-slope, comfortably within most ADA guidelines. Accessible parking and a pit toilet are available at the trailhead. Trailside benches and interpretive kiosks enhance the experience for all users.