The delights are twice as nice on both sides of the Susquehanna River. That’s because the comprising Susquehanna National Heritage Area straddles both the Lancaster and York County sides, in south-central Pennsylvania.
A treasured excursion that’s a bit closer to home than the beaches of Ocean City or the mountainous terrain of the Appalachians, a day trip outing to the Susquehanna National Heritage Area offers up so many all-in-one possibilities for those hailing from the surrounding Mid-Atlantic region.
The Susquehanna National Heritage Area is part of the Alliance of National Heritage Areas and HeritagePA, Pennsylvania’s statewide Heritage Area network. Having been officially established in 2019 as a Congressionally designated coordinating entity for America’s 55th National Heritage Area, they operate as a nonprofit. Fortunately, they garner plenty of support and contributions from generous donors, including local and national partners. This enables them to provide a wealth of opportunities at their two concurring locations and uphold their ongoing mission of commemorating and promoting the regional heritage, history, and continued legacy of the river and its surrounding terrain.
And boy, do they ever deliver on the delights to be had! You have the opportunity to hike landmark trails, view historical exhibits and artifacts, participate in regularly occurring programs, and even take to the waters of the Susquehanna River directly! Both locations boast optimal scenic views and available rental spaces, making them premium picks as scenic rental spots for which to host a major milestone celebration.
On the Lancaster Side
When exploring the Susquehanna National Heritage Area from the Lancaster County side, your primary destination will bring you to the Columbia Crossing River Trails Center. Located within the limits of Columbia River Park, this is your ultimate go-to as a visitor/education center. You can grab numerous resources, including area maps, guides, brochures, and more. They also sport a few onsite exhibits and displays to take note of.
Come any time, any season and there always seems to be something fun unfolding onsite. Last time we visited, there was a “Fox Baby Shower” taking place, hosted by a visiting regional nature center. The event was free and open to the public and even featured some of the center’s resident animals in attendance, including rescued, recuperating raptor birds!
Columbia Crossing River Trails Center serves as the trailhead for both the land and water trails. Columbia River Park boasts 14 miles of land-based terrain, providing for all those land-locked interests, such as hiking, biking, exploring heritage sites, and scenic picnics in nature. Additionally, you will find boat launches for paddlecraft and powerboat excursions. While you’re more than welcome to bring your own, take note of the onsite outfitter, which operates seasonally here, providing whatever you need in the way of canoes, kayaks, bikes, and equipment.
On the York Side
When venturing through the York side, your ultimate resource destination will be the Zimmerman Center for Heritage. Located within an 18th-century brick home overlooking the Susquehanna riverfront, the house was renovated and restored to its former glory by John and Kathryn Zimmerman in the late 1990s and later donated to the Susquehanna National Heritage Area along with its surrounding property.
The Zimmerman Center for Heritage operates as both the Susquehanna National Heritage Area’s official headquarters and a miniature museum housing various artifacts on display. Highlights here include semi-interactive exhibits detailing the history of the Susquehannock who inhabited the region and the impressive Visions of the Susquehanna River Art Collection.
The center also offers ongoing programs and activities regularly, including those that cater directly to children, like their Junior Ranger program. Older folks too have their pick of unique Ranger-led Heritage Programs and events to consider.
There’s also the simple joy of strolling around the surrounding trails comprising this side of the Susquehanna. Consider a hike to Native Lands County Park or even taking to the Mason-Dixon Trail. Take note that Zimmerman Center also serves as the Official Visitor Contact and Passport Station for the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail!
River Discovery Boat Tours
River Discovery Boat Tours are offered onsite here between June and October. Departing from the York side, these guided tours launch at various times and feature different themes, focuses, and durations, depending on which option you sign up for. All utilize the same unique vessel, however—the one and only historic 1912 Chief Uncas.
Most of the on-water adventures take out around 22 passengers at a time and hover around an hour or so duration-wise. Of course, each one has its own variations depending on the motif and event at hand. You can learn about upcoming 2025 offerings here.
Seasonal Events
You can visit the Susquehanna National Heritage Area any time of year. There’s always something exciting going on, whether it be a special touring event, bird walk, children’s program, or awesome hands-on activity or exploration.
Certain seasons offer up special onsite events as well. Come during the last weekend in June, for instance, and you can join in the fun of Riverfest—by far the largest annual happening in the immediate area. Visit the link to learn more.
Visiting the Susquehanna National Heritage Area is always free, although some programs and events may come with an additional cost. Also, take note that River Discovery Tours are offered as ticketed extras.
The Columbia Crossing River Trails Center is located at 41 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA 17512. The Zimmerman Center for Heritage is located at 1706 Long Level Road, Wrightsville, PA 17368. Learn more about the Susquehanna National Heritage Area on the website at www.susqnha.org.