Governor Dick to Dinosaur Rock

A definite must-do ride, not only for its variety of sweet trails but also for some of the coolest natural and man-made formations around. The beautiful little town of Mount Gretna in itself is quite an experience. Located in the heart of the Amish Country, this unique hillside village has a certain aura about it that just needs to be experienced firsthand. The history behind the name of the hill is interesting as well. It’s named after a black woodchopper and charcoal burner who worked exclusively on this mountain felling and burning trees. His name was Dick, but his friends nicknamed him Governor . . . and upon his death the hill was named for him. The ride begins above town on the grounds of the Governor Dick Wild Area. Atop the hill is a unique observation tower. Looking somewhat like a grain silo, this 65-foot-tall concrete tower is open to those who want to savor the 360-degree view of the surrounding Dutch Country. Highlights: the Governor Dick observation tower and the colossal Dinosaur Rock ice age formation; great wildlife viewing. Tread: a potpourri of grassy woods roads, old rail grades, and singletrack. Most of the surfaces are smooth and fast, with only small sections of bumpy terrain.