Hidden Heritage

There are so many unique opportunities for heritage and outdoor experiences in the Susquehanna Gateway region. Visitors may not know about some of the "local secrets" and for life-long residents it's easy to forget about some of the great experiences right in our own backyard.  We would like to share some of our discovered (or rediscovered) experiences.

By Carol Park, SGHA Board of Directors
 

Well, "hidden" it isn't.  Well marked, pleasant, long views in all directions, and open are better words for it, the "it" being the new Native Lands Heritage Trail.
 

After hiking the 1.5 mile trail with family during the holidays, I've been back twice more for the fresh air and peaceful experience of hiking the path, which is also part of the Mason-Dixon Trail. The trail runs between the Zimmerman Center (South trail head) and Klines Run Park (North trail head), maintained by Safe Harbor Water Power Corporation.  Grab a trail brochure at either location and contemplate what the Susquehannock Indians must have seen while living at their last known stockade village, located behind what is now the Zimmerman Center. 

This trail curves through three open fields, giving you a clear view of Highpoint Scenic Overlook to the north, the river to the east, and Turkey Hill to the south.  Bring your camera and take time for a few photographs. The big sky and rolling hills are excellent backdrops for family photos.

If you are looking for a more intense hike, the Mason-Dixon Trail section between Fishing Creek and Apollo County Park has elevation changes that provide challenging hikes. The view this time of year is exceptionally good, while the leaves are off the trees, to see the expanse of the river.  River elevation is about 227 feet above sea level and the Mason-Dixon Trail has many stretches at 400 to 600 feet elevation.  At these high elevations, you're likely to see eagles soaring ... below you.

If you're looking for some history, also check out Chickies Rock County Park on the Lancaster side of the river. Take the low trail starting near Marietta,off of Furnace and Robert Mowder Roads, and head south toward the Breezyview Overlook.  Our industrial heritage is still seen: canals, stone foundations, and railroad beds.  Signage provides photos and descriptions of the Henry Clay Foundry, just south of Chickies Rock. 

In the spring, I'm looking forward to a new adventure when the Turkey Hill Trail (in Lancaster County) includes a new  observation platform near the wind turbines on Turkey Hill.

See you on the trails!

Along with generous private contributions, SGHA is funded in part by the following state, regional, and community partners: