Fall in York County is a lovely time of year thanks to the changing leaves and cool, crisp air. A great way to enjoy the area’s beautiful scenery is to take the family on a hike. Let’s discuss some of the county’s kid-friendly hiking trails.
1. LaHo Trail
While there are many hiking, biking, and equestrian trails in Codorus State Park, the park’s LaHo Trail is the best choice when hiking with younger family members. The 1.5-mile trail, stretching along the shoreline of Wildasin Flats, is the most accessible in the park. It’s a single-path track with fewer sections of steep terrain than other areas in Codorus. Several bird species visit the trail’s wetlands in the fall, including Great Blue Heron, osprey, and wood duck.
2. Rocky Ridge Park
With more than 12 miles of trails for hiking and biking, you could easily spend an entire day exploring Rocky Ridge Park. The kids will especially enjoy the park’s nature fun zone. Here they can climb, dig, and build. They might even spot a squirrel or chipmunk. Also, keep an eye out for the pheasant, brown thrashers, and woodpeckers that call the park home. The park’s two observation decks give you fantastic views of the changing oak tree leaves.
3. Richard Nixon Park
Richard Nixon Park’s six miles of trails were designed with nature observers in mind. You won’t have to share the trails with cyclists, horseback riders, or dogs, making them safer for little ones. The trails take you through woods of Eastern Red Cedar, dogwood, and mountain laurel trees. There are several felled trees along the trails that serve as homes for salamanders and insects.
At the end of your hike, be sure to stop by the park’s nature center. Here you’ll find a working beehive, a touch room, and observation decks for viewing the many birds that live in the park.
4. Highpoint Scenic Vista
It’s only a 1/2-mile hike from the Highpoint parking lot to the scenic vista overlooking the beautiful Susquehanna River. The trail is ADA-certified, making it suitable for both wheelchairs and strollers. Along the way, you’ll find several benches, perfect for when you want to take a rest and enjoy the scenery. At the top of the hill, there’s a beautiful fountain and spots for birdwatching. Highpoint is the perfect spot for picnics, so be sure to pack a lunch.
5. Lock 12
Lock 12 is an intermediate section of the 199-mile Mason Dixon Trail. It takes you past an old sawmill and into tree-filled woods that include a bamboo tunnel. While it’s a short hike, it will feel like you’re a world away. Lock 12 concludes at a beautiful waterfall that is the perfect place to rest and enjoy a picnic. Be sure to keep an eye out for squirrels, chipmunks, and several bird species.
These are just some of the kid-friendly trails in York County. No matter which one you visit, you’re sure to create special memories as you explore the autumnal wonders of Southern Pennsylvania.
Image via Flickr by Nicholas_T | CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original.
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