Factually speaking, the Susquehanna River is largest tributary to the Chesapeake Bay, stretching 444 miles from New York to Maryland. The river is at its widest point around Harrisburg where it is close to a mile wide.
Now that you have the facts laid out in front of you, let’s talk about what the Susquehanna River brings to York, Dauphin and Lancaster counties.
Boating on the Susquehanna
Enjoying the river can be accomplished by a variety of boats. Small kayaks and canoes are popular in the area due to their ease to launch and enjoy. There are several areas along the river that can accommodate larger sailing vessels and motorboats. On any given summer day, you can see a large assortment of watercraft being enjoyed on the Susquehanna. For those who prefer a guided tour of the river, the Pride of the Susquehanna leaves from Harrisburg on regularly scheduled tours.
Hiking and Biking along the River
Hiking and biking along the Susquehanna can provide a beautiful backdrop while enjoying these activities. My personal favorite is the Lancaster County River Trail. This runs from Columbia, PA all the way to north of Bainbridge, PA. The tree covered miles between Columbia and Marietta provide a lovely area for a bike ride and offer options to stop for a meal or drink along the way.
Fishing on the Susquehanna
Native species in the river include Brook trout, small-mouth bass, and flathead catfish. The water of the river tends to be calm making it a popular fishing spot. All species for fish can be caught from the deck of a boat or the banks of the shore. If you have questions about where to catch the best fish be careful asking a fisherman. You may end up hearing quite the “fishtale”.
How you enjoy your time at the Susquehanna River is completely up to you. There are plenty of options from boating to fishing that can help you pass the day. Regardless of what you chose to do, it is sure to be an enjoyable time at the river.