It’s finally summer, and this weather has just been calling my name. Sunny skies and warm weather should never be taken for granted. However, I also don’t feel like spending a lot of money on any outdoor activities because I’m a broke college student. So what can I do to take full advantage of the nice summer days without breaking the bank? Hike some trails and see some cool stuff like these three amazing places.
1. Governor Dick’s Watch Tower
Located off Pinch Road in Lebanon, PA, the tower overlooks Clarence Schock Memorial Park. Park at the top of Pinch Road and head down one of two trails that take you to the tower. One trail takes you around and up the hill with nice graveled paths and benches along the way. The other trail takes you straight up this rocky hill where you’ll begin to regret every decision you’ve ever made. In other words, this trail has something for the average or more advanced hiker. Once you actually get to the tower, it’s great! There’s more benches (awesome) and you can actually go into the tower. In order to see the scenic views the tower has to offer, you have to climb up EIGHT (yes, EIGHT) ladders. It’s totally worth it though, I highly recommend going here.
2. White Cliffs of Conoy
These used to be closed off to the public but with the new, paved trail along the Susquehanna River, anyone can enjoy these cliffs! Park at the Bainbridge parking lot located all the way down Race Street in Marietta. Start on the trail and make your way through the wooded areas right alongside the river. The trail itself is easy as pie. It’s completely paved so you won’t be climbing through the jungle like Tarzan. This is a really cool trail to walk on because the railroad is literally right next you. Be extra careful though because this train track is still used and trains come through! After about a mile and a half, you’ll come to the white cliffs. Again, be careful because it can be a little slippery but running up and down the cliffs can be a lot of fun. The cliffs look directly over the Susquehanna River which is an awesome view especially at sunset.
3. Peace Rock
If you’re looking for a bit of a hike but also a risky adventure, this is definitely the place to go. Peace Rock consists of a couple cliffs that people can jump off of into the Schuykill River below. It’s named “Peace Rock” or “The Rock” because of the peace sign spray painted on the cliff. You can choose to jump off cliffs that are close to 20 or 50 feet above water. Not much of jumper? That’s okay! You can still swim in the lake or lay out on a beach near the cliffs. If you’re a hiker, you have to walk about a mile before you can get to the cliffs. This is located in Tilden Township, PA right off Blue Mountain Road.
So go outside this summer and check out these really cool places around the county. They are definitely worth it and will help you catch those summer vibes.
