Cool Off in the Susquehanna River this Summer

Pennsylvania is well-known for our infinite forests and rivers. The Susquehanna River, besides being one of the most ancient rivers in the world, provides a cool and scenic venue for recreation during the sweltering Pennsylvania summers. When temperatures rise, those of us living along its banks hit the river’s mile-wide water for kayaking, canoeing, jet skiing, tubing, paddle boarding, and boating. History buffs, too, will find state markers scattered along the 53-mile stretch between Harrisburg and the Mason-Dixon Line that help visitors better understand the historical and cultural significance of the Susquehanna. Combined with a map of the river and a rental of your choice from one of the outfitters we’ve featured below, you could easily spend all day exploring America’s first nationally recognized water trail.

Long Level Marina in Wrightsville has a brand new fleet of Avalon pontoon boat rentals available on the west shores of Lake Clarke. Just pick your date, place your reservation, and plan a day trip on the lake! Nearby, the East Shore Overlook at Safe Harbor Dam provides a five mile down river view of Lake Alfred and a three mile upriver view of Lake Clarke. Visit the website for more information.

Long Level Marina
1809 Long Level Road 
Wrightsville, PA 17368 
(717) 252-1589

Chiques Rock Outfitters, named after the 100 foot high overlook, provides hourly kayak, canoe, and tandem rentals with paddles and a life vest included. Up for a challenge? The pedal to paddle “race” is a 7.5 mile bike ride north on the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail where you’ll exchange your wheels for a canoe or kayak and paddle 7.5 miles back to your car. They also offer guided, three-hour kayak fishing tours in the evening. Click here for more information.

Chiques Rock Outfitters
41 Walnut Street
Columbia, PA 17512
717-475-6196

Shank’s Mare Outfitters offers excellent guided tours of the Susquehanna water trail that explore some of its most hidden and most interesting secrets. Discover the mysterious rock formations that make the Susquehanna a geological marvel or view ancient Native American petroglyphs. You can also take a relaxing paddleboard tour along the shoreline and then have a delicious picnic while enjoying live music. Click here to view all of your options.

Shank’s Mare Outfitters
2092 Long Level Rd
Wrightsville, PA 17368

717-252-1616