Outdoor Recreation in the Susquehanna River Valley

Submitted by Andrew Miller, Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau

Amid the hills and valleys, forests and fields, rivers and streams of central Pennsylvania, the Susquehanna River Valley beckons to outdoor enthusiasts seeking inspiration and adventure. The region is home to beautiful landscapes and abundant opportunities for runners, cyclists, paddlers, fishers and offroaders to explore the road less traveled and live their best lives.

In size, this region is one of the smallest on the PA map, yet it consistently ranks high in the state’s tourism statistics in regards to outdoor recreation. Here are just a few of the ways the region is making headlines:

• Penns Creek, with waters ranging from still to some of the most rapidly flowing in the state, is considered one of the best trout streams in the country and a top fly-fishing location in the state.

• The region is superb for every type of bicycling, whether you prefer an easy ride on a local rail trail, longer road rides through the countryside or strenuous mountain biking through gorgeous forest lands. Gravel cycling, in particular, is gaining momentum with the national recognition received by unPAved of the Susquehanna River Valley, a top gravel race held annually in October throughout Union and Snyder counties.

• Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area has put our region on the map for off-roading enthusiasts looking to experience some PA “wild life.” With carefully cultivated trails and one-of-a-kind obstacles, the AOAA draws visitors from all over the country.

• The new disc golf course at Faylor Lake is garnering national attention due to its spectacular views and championship level of play. The disc golf course is open daily and free of charge for athletes, beginners and families.

With so many beautiful and diverse outdoor amenities, it is no wonder that we find so many reasons to celebrate the outdoors within our communities. Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the special events and programming geared toward individuals and families seeking opportunities to get outside and explore. Here are a few to experience:

• Merrill Linn Conservancy’s Explore the Natural World Events – Throughout the spring, Merrill Linn hosts programs in various locations on a wide range of outdoor topics from bird watching to stargazing and from trees and plants to frogs and fireflies. Programming is available for every age and area of interest.

• Middle Susquehanna RiverKeeper HERYN – Registration is currently open for this youth (ages 9-14) kayaking and fishing program held in June in New Columbia. The goal of the popular program is to help young people become more confident in the outdoors and more dedicated to protecting our natural resources.

• River Road Holiday – The Bucknell Community Engagement Fund will sponsor their River Road Holiday on May 14th from 1-5pm. The river road north of the Lewisburg Borough from the Community Garden to Riverwoods will be closed to traffic allowing for wheelchairs, walkers and bicyclists to enjoy the views at their own pace.

• Susquehanna Greenway Outdoor Expo – On June 3rd at

Shikellamy State Park, the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership will hold their popular Outdoor Expo with demonstrations and information about the region’s outdoor amenities, adventure gear and getting started in outdoor pastimes. Enjoy approximately 50 booths, food trucks and music.

• Lavender Festival at Blue Sparrow Farm – June 17th and 18th enjoy arts and crafts, wine and music amongst the lavender fields in Milton.

Of course, there are also plenty of ways to get outside and celebrate during spring in the Susquehanna River Valley. In April McClure Bacon Fest will be held April 15th and the two-week long Celebration of the Arts in Lewisburg will kick off with the Lewisburg Arts Festival on April 29th. Don’t miss the Anthracite Heritage Festival of the Arts May 6th, the Middlecreek Valley Spring Antique Machinery Association Show May 19th-21st and the Central PA Fiber Festival May 20th-21st. In June, plan to attend the Milton PA Beer Fest on the 10th.

At VisitCentralPA.org, you will find an ever evolving calendar of local events. Check back often for new calendar submissions and sign up to receive our e-weekly newsletter, “This Week in the Susquehanna River Valley,” so that you never have to miss out on the fun.

To learn a little bit about everything the Susquehanna River Valley has to offer visit the Route 15 Visitor Center in Lewisburg Monday, May 1st through Friday, May 5th from 9am to 5pm for our annual Backyard Tourism Week celebration. Enjoy special themed days, browse area attraction displays and register to win awesome prizes. For more information about Backyard Tourism Week and the attractions, outdoor recreational opportunities, restaurants, shops, events and amenities found within the region go to VisitCentralPA.org or phone the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau at 800.525.7320. Remember to ask about receiving a copy of our Outdoor Recreation Guide and the 2023 Official Guide to the Susquehanna River Valley.