Tucquan Glen Nature Preserve

 

Blog photo Tucquan couple

Living near the Susquehanna River affords many opportunities for family outdoor fun, and Tucquan Glen is a particularly family-friendly hiking trail.  Located in Holtwood, the peaceful and beautiful trail winds along Tucquan Creek until reaching the railroad tracks and the Susquehanna River.  Rhododendrons grace the trail providing a petal strewn path that adds a lovely aura to your hike.  The round trip is around 2.4 miles but there is a wonderful swimming spot before the end of the line, perfect for cooling off on a warm day. Complete with a small waterfall which doubles as a whirlpool, the swimming hole is mostly shallow with a sandy, smooth-stoned bottom.  We went on a super hot day in July but once you step into the woods, it is instantly 10 degrees cooler…amazing!  We forgot it was hot and I even had goose bumps while swimming.  Honestly this is one of the few activities you can do outside in July, so for that reason alone it is one I recommend you check out!  The trail is well worn and is fairly level with just slight inclines, however there are a fair amount of rocks and roots, so little ones would have a tough time on foot.  We passed a family with a baby in a backpack, so that would be a good option for infants and toddlers, although I personally would rather not bring my 2 year old.

Beware:  Parking is a challenge as there is only a small lot near the entrance and absolutely no parking on the street is permitted.  If it is too crowded you would have to wait until someone leaves or try another park nearby, which there are many.  Cell reception is sketchy.  Make sure you are prepared with bug spray and basic first aid, common sense anytime you hike.  I should also mention we did happen to see a copperhead snake on the trail my husband nearly stepped on, so keep your eyes peeled!  I realize I probably lost some of you right there…sorry…

Open Year Round, Sunrise to Sunset, No camping or fires.

Carry in, carry out.

 

Tucquan Glen Nature Preserve

Off River Road, Martic Township

(717) 392-7891 (Conservancy office)

See http://www.lancasterconservancy.org for more information, especially for directions as it does not list a specific address or GPS coordinates.

There are many other nature preserves in Lancaster County, and this website will give you information about all of them.  I’m looking forward to exploring many more in the years to come!

Blog photo Tucquan snake

Day Tripper Mom

Jeanette Knaub is a wife and an at-home mom to four children; Jackson (17), Eliana (15), Amalia (13), and Lilah (8). During the school year, she works part time as a Classroom Aide. In what little spare time is left, she enjoys volunteering at church and community organizations, reading, running, and of course researching and blogging about her family’s next trip!

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