Here at Susquehanna Kids, we are always looking for great ways to get outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of our area with our families. We sat down with our friend, Alana Jajko, at Susquehanna Greeenway Partnership, who gave us an AMAZING list of opportunities to utilize all the resources the Susquehanna Greenway has to offer. Check it out to learn more!
There is no doubt about it, the Susquehanna River offers a world of beauty and opportunity for outdoor recreation! It runs right through the heart of our communities, yet it is not always apparent where to go or how to plan that next outdoor adventure, especially for families who just don’t have the time to do the research.
One organization that is working to help fill this gap is the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership (SGP). SGP works to connect people to this treasured corridor—the Susquehanna Greenway—to help provide the opportunity and resources for all to access hiking, biking, and paddling trails along our shared Susquehanna River.
What is SGP?
The Susquehanna Greenway is a corridor of connected trails, parks, river access points, and communities, linking people to the natural and cultural treasures of the Susquehanna River within Pennsylvania. The mission of the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership is to continue to grow the Greenway by building connections along the Susquehanna River, inspiring people to engage with the outdoors, and transforming communities into places where people want to live, work, and explore.
A Selection of SGP Trails
Looking for your next family adventure? Here are just a few Susquehanna Greenway recommendations to get outdoors on local trails with the whole family:
🏞️Susquehanna Riverlands (Berwick): The Susquehanna Riverlands is a 1,200-acre recreation park and wildlife area near Berwick. Its trail network weaves through a diversity of habitats, offering visitors the opportunity to view the abundant wildlife that live in the area including Great Blue Herons, beavers, Painted Turtles, and more. It is a fantastic spot for families, and one sure to keep little eyes intent on the next wildlife sighting.
🏞️J. Manley Robbins Trail (Danville): The J. Manley Robbins Trail is a short trail with a long history, renowned for being the oldest documented rail-trail in the country. The trail leads through a beautiful deciduous forest high above Mahoning Creek. The original trail is barely one mile long, but combined with an old Reading Railroad line, the trail makes a 3.8-mile loop. It’s a lovely, forested setting for a nature hike and a popular fishing spot by the creek—a great trail for families with kids to blow off some steam!
🏞️Shikellamy State Park (Sunbury): With two sections to explore—the marina and the overlook—there is no shortage of outdoor opportunities at Shikellamy State Park. Families can enjoy stunning river views and nature trails from the overlook, or take advantage of the meandering paths, playground, and butterfly garden at the marina. Pavilions are also available to reserve at either section of the park, making Shikellamy the perfect spot for your next family picnic!
🏞️Dale’s Ridge Trail (Lewisburg): Located on the 137-acre Dale-Engle-Walker property, this 2-mile trail has become one of Merill W. Linn Conservancy‘s best known and most popular. Taking hikers 160 feet above Buffalo Creek, the trail offers a stunning view of the Buffalo Valley. A wide variety of landscapes are seen along the trail, including the Buffalo Creek floodplain, a mature hardwoods forest, a pond, and open fields. It is also a great place for birdwatching, as well as observing the many different kinds of wildflowers. A nature brochure is available at the trail head—perfect for curious minds!
🏞️Milton State Park Trails (Milton): The 3.5-mile trail network at Milton State Park offers a level path around the soccer fields and a level but more rugged trail around the perimeter of the island on which it is located. The park itself hosts a variety of activities like walking, hiking, picnicking, soccer, fishing, and more. The trails are perfect for families to explore with the kids and study nature!
So, get outside on your local trails! There are plenty of family-friendly options to kickstart your next adventure with the kids. Want to explore more? Check out these other amazing resources from the Susquehanna Greenway:
🥾Family Friendly Nature Trails
🥾Easy Trails for Walking & Accessibility (that means stroller friendly!)
🥾Find a Trail Near You with the Online Interactive Map
SGP Upcoming Programs
There are always lots of things happening on the Susquehanna Greenway; here are some of their newest events and activities!
Looking to support SGP? Show some love for your favorite river! Visit the SGP Shop for maps, Hawaiian outdoor shirt, stickers, magnets, and more. A portion of every purchase goes toward supporting the Susquehanna Greenway.
