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EasyGround

Shields Dam Trail

Lanse, Pennsylvania · Centre County

Shields Dam Trail is a easy hiking trail near Lanse in Centre County, Pennsylvania.. The surface is ground. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

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40.88945, -78.10109
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at Shields Dam Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High60°F
Avg Low43°F
Peak Rain Chance9%
Humidity75%
UV (avg)5
Today
🌧
Light Rain
70°/53°
💧 9%🌬 15mph
↑ 7:10 AM ↓ 6:52 PM
Sat
☀️
Clear
59°/45°
🌬 8mph
↑ 7:11 AM ↓ 6:50 PM
Sun
🌦
Light Drizzle
57°/43°
💧 4%🌬 10mph
↑ 7:12 AM ↓ 6:49 PM
Mon
☁️
Overcast
59°/40°
🌬 13mph
↑ 7:13 AM ↓ 6:47 PM
Tue
☀️
Clear
54°/32°
🌬 9mph
↑ 7:14 AM ↓ 6:45 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Shields Dam Trail

Shields Dam Trail is a easy hiking trail near Lanse in Centre County, Pennsylvania.. The surface is ground. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 15 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Pennsylvania

Trail conditions in Pennsylvania change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Shields Dam Trail?

Shields Dam Trail is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Can I ride a bike on Shields Dam Trail?

Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail.

Are horses allowed on Shields Dam Trail?

Yes — horseback riding is permitted (designated equestrian route).

What is the trail surface on Shields Dam Trail?

The surface is ground. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike Shields Dam Trail?

Pennsylvania has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.