Autumn is an excellent time of year for a picnic, and York County, Pennsylvania, is a terrific place to spread out a feast under the warm skies of fall. Whether you’re leaf-peeping or spending quality time outdoors with friends and family, try one of these five best spots for a picnic today.
1. Samuel S. Lewis State Park
Samuel S. Lewis State Park’s 885-foot-high ridge is the focal point of the area. Located at 6000 Mt. Pigsah Road., this peak offers one of the best views of York County. Sprawled over 85 acres, there are plenty of spots for a fall picnic, including several tables and benches. If you don’t want to hike up the mountain, there’s ample parking near the top.
2. Codorus State Park
Located on Marina Drive in Hanover, Codorus State Park covers 3,500 acres and is an obvious choice for a picnic — but a great one nonetheless. Lake Marburg offers picnickers 26 miles of shoreline and the chance to glimpse migrating waterfowl. It’s an excellent place for lunch and is a rest stop for a variety of shorebirds. The park is open every day of the year, from sunrise to sunset.
3. Heritage Rail Trail County Park
Covering 176 acres, the 21-mile long Heritage Rail Trail County Park runs from the Mason-Dixon line just past the Borough of New Freedom. Stop along the route and enjoy a picnic at one of several historic sites, such as the Hanover Junction Train Station.
Built between 1851 and 1852, this historic railroad station features a three-story, three-bay by six-bay building. Open every Saturday this fall, this museum is an ideal place to walk off your meal and discover the history of the area.
4. Highpoint Scenic Vista and Recreation Area
Located at 1199 Hilts Road in nearby Wrightsville, Highpoint Scenic Vista and Recreation Area boast 79 acres of scenic meadowlands that are an ideal destination for a glorious autumn picnic. Located on top of a hill, it provides magnificent views of the Susquehanna River right from your table.
After filling up on fried chicken and potato salad, why not go for a stroll? The infamous 193-mile Mason-Dixon Trail travels right through the park. Highpoint Scenic Recreation Area has well-maintained restrooms and a seasonal fountain for added enjoyment.
5. Codorus Furnace
While this pick may not be your traditional picnic spot, there’s a lot to love about this unique backdrop. Near the Susquehanna River, Codorus Furnace is a giant forge that was built in the mid-1700s. Standing on the south side of Codorus Creek, it offers a variety of associated buildings to explore and is a terrific place to enjoy a tasty packed lunch. This picnic destination is located off of Furnace Road, and there’s ample parking.
Get out and enjoy the weather before York County is buried under a blanket of snow at one of these great locations across the county. Pack a lunch or hit up a nearby restaurant and eat your food at an awesome outdoor spot today.
Image via Flickr by adamdachis | CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original
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