York County Rail Trail Authority to Complete Extension to the Heritage Rail Trail

Home to part of the Heritage Rail Trail, Downtown York is the perfect pit stop for anyone enjoying a day in the outdoors.

BY BRENDAN SALYARDS | MANAGER, ECONOMIC INITIATIVES

One hundred fifty-three years ago, President Ulysses S. Grant, at an event in Promontory Summit, drove a ceremonial golden spike which marked the completion of the first transcontinental railroad. Later this year, York County will have its own Golden Spike Ceremony marking the completion of the extension of the York County Heritage Rail Trail from John C. Rudy County Park to the Mason-Dixon Line.

Prior to the completion of the “Golden Spike” there was a roughly eight-block gap in the City of York between the existing Heritage Rail Trail and the Northern Extension. Many Trail-users, especially those from out of state, were unaware that just a few blocks away there was another 5.7 miles of trail. The completion of this project brings the total milage of the Heritage Rail Trail to over 27 miles. It’s ideal location for runners, walkers, bikers, and anyone interested in outdoor recreation in the Downtown.

Immediately to the South of the Heritage Rail Trail, lies the Torrey C. Brown Trail which extends for another 20 miles. Both Trails are part of the conceptual Grand History Trail which envisions a fully connected trail loop stretching from Washington, D.C. to Gettysburg. While the connection has yet to be officially opened, trail-users are already utilizing the newly paved trail. Two portions of the project remain. The installation of lighting and the completion of the rail crossing. Jeff Shue, Director of Municipal Services with C.S. Davidson, anticipates that “both issues will be completed by the end of June, but the railroad crossing is one we cannot control”.

For “THE OUTDOOR ENTHUSIAST,” also check out:

Farquhar Park at 570 N. Newberry Street - This lovely park, overlooking The Avenues neighborhood, boasts tennis courts, an exercise trail, playgrounds, and more. Plus, it is nestled up against Kiwanis Lake, home to a rookery.

Hoffman Sports Complex & Veterans Memorial Park at 500 Rockdale Avenue - Looking to be active outside? This 72-acre municipal park is your destination, featuring softball fields, sand volleyball courts, a skate park, batting cages, playground, and more.

Girard Park at 710 East Maple Street - As part of a community-built project in 2019, this neighborhood park includes an open play field, basketball court, playground and more.

Penn Park at 100 West College Avenue - York’s first public park plays host to several community events and is home to basketball courts, playground and lots of open green space. You can even cool off in the summer months with a splashpad water feature.

Pal’s Park on the Rail Trail between West King Street and West Princess Street - If traveling with your four-legged friend, this community fenced dog park is a must stop with its convenient location along the Rail Trail. | Facebook @PalsParkYork