Visit York County’s Trail Towns
Discover Adventure
York City
Local Partner: Downtown Inc.
Since its founding in 1741, York has been home to makers and doers. A frontier town on the edge of the Pennsylvania Colony, York served for nine months as the Capital of the United States from September 30, 1777- June 27, 1778. An early manufacturing leader, York was a hotspot for technological innovation with contributions including the first coal-fired locomotive, and the first iron-steam boat. In the Second World War, The York Plan was a national model for industrial policy to support the war effort. Today, York is a city on the rise, with a vibrant arts district, live music events and venues, cultural and heritage tourism, first class lodging, and location in close proximity to outdoor recreational assets, York is a premier destination for visitors from far and wide.
Check out the York City History Guide Here
Directions to York City
Seven Valleys
Local Partner: Seven Valleys Borough
Nestled in the rolling hills of Southern York County, Seven Valleys, is a quaint post-industrial town with abundant history. Formerly home to an Iron Ore Mine, Seven Valleys was home to one of the first facilities to produce ice cream on an industrial scale. Light manufacturing including garments and cigars petered out in the 20th century. Today, even Valleys is home to a local Winery and the popular Valley Tavern and remains a “haven of quirt serenity and a delightful place to live”.
Check out the Seven Valleys History Guide Here
Directions to Seven Valleys
Glen Rock
Local Partner: Glen Rock Borough
Founded by English Immigrants in the early 19th century and powered to prominence by early industrial development and the proximity of the Northern Central Railroad. Heavy industry no longer dominates Glen Rock’s downtown, but the legacy of Glen Rock’s industrial past can be seen at Ruins Hall, a formerly blighted property turned outdoor event space and art venue. The quaint town center boasts several restaurants, a library, a historic inn. If you’re there around Christmas, be sure to listen for the famous Glen Rock Carolers who brighten the wee hours of Christmas morning by signing carols throughout the town.
Check out the Glen Rock History Guide Here
Directions to Glen Rock
Railroad
Local Partner: Railroad Borough
Railroad Borough takes its name from the defining feature of the town, its role as a station along the Northern Central Railway. Despite its small size, Railroad has the three essentials for trail-users: lodging, food, and entertainment. With ample parking at the Trailhead, Railroad is a great place to begin your York County Trail Towns adventure.
Check out the Railroad History Guide Here
Directions to Railroad
New Freedom
Local Partner: New Freedom Borough
New Freedom is a bustling small town with plenty of things to do and see. It is the home of Northern Central Railway, an excursion trail that operates along the Heritage Rail Trail. New Freedom’s location as a midway point between York and Baltimore continues to make it an attractive place for commuters to live. You’ll find everything you need in New Freedom including several breweries and bars, local restaurants, and retail stores.
Check out the New Freedom History Guide Here
Directions to New Freedom
Hanover
Local Partner: Main Street Hanover
Heart of Hanover Trails | Main Street Hanover
Rightfully known as Pretzel-Town, USA, Hanover is a bustling town of 16,000. Its location near Codorus State Park, and the initial stages of the Hanover Trail make Hanover a hub for outdoor recreation. The site of skirmish during the Gettysburg Campaign, Downtown Hanover has history, culture, entertainment, food, and lodging. For more information on things to do and see in Hanover be sure to check out Main Street Hanover’s website!
Wrightsville
Local Partner: Wrightsville Borough
Brochure
Perched on a bluff overlooking the Susquehanna River, Wrightsville is the spoke in the wheel for a multitude of recreational assets. The Mason-Dixon Trail runs along the riverfront, PA Bike Route S follows Hellam Street to cross the Veterans Memorial Bridge. Located only a short distance from two state parks: Susquehanna Riverlands and Samuel S. Lewis, two county parks, and a host of other outdoor recreational activities, there are plenty of ways to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors around Wrightsville. Before, or after your day outdoors, be sure to stop in at one of Wrightsville’s many dining locations.
Learn More About the 21 Mile Heritage Rail Trail