Follow the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail

During your stay at our bed and breakfast near Lancaster, you’ll find yourself just miles away from one of the oldest (and most scenic) rivers in the world. It runs the full length of Lancaster County’s west border and its top landmarks and best attractions are rooted deep in our heritage as Americans. With the foliage still off the trees, viewing opportunities of the impressive Susquehanna River are ideal in the early weeks of spring.

The Northwest Lancaster County River Trail is a fourteen-mile recreational trail that explores five towns along the Susquehanna River. Its southern gateway is Columbia, a short drive to the west from Lancaster. The visitor facility, Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, includes visitor information, exhibits, and restrooms. The park has scenic views, power boat and paddlecraft launches, picnic areas, and a seasonal outfitter. You’ll also be able to view the original piers of the covered bridge that spanned the Susquehanna here. It was burned to stop a Confederate invasion of Harrisburg, thus saving Lancaster, a mere three days before the clash at Gettysburg.

A short hike or bike ride to the north, you’ll find Point Rock Tunnel, a 180-foot abandoned railroad route through solid rock, and Breezyview Overlook at Chickies Rock County Park. Towering 220 feet above Chiques Creek is a vertical quartzite outcropping, Chickies Rock, which contains some of the state’s oldest fossil (A 600-million-year-old marine worm!). Stop in historic Marietta for some great restaurants, pubs, and shops. Discover the area’s rich iron-making heritage and 19^th century furnaces.

Riverfront Park, further to the north, is a long section that is a key visitor access point boasting splendid views of the Susquehanna with a large pavilion, promenade, boat ramp, and locations for picnicking and exploring nature.

In Canoy Township, you will find the scenic Shocks Mill Railroad Bridge Walkway and the White Cliffs of Canoy, a riverfront destination created from the industrial waste of a large limestone quarry. The York Haven Dam awaits visitors at the northern trailhead of the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail.

Click here to use the trail map to find access points and learn more about features and attractions along the trail.