There’s no better way to cool down and chill out in the summertime than taking a scenic and serene paddle on the Susquehanna River. Fortunately, our region has dozens of access points to the Susquehanna River and offers a variety of challenge levels – from beginners to experts.
I recently sat down with a local Susquehanna River expert, Alana Jajko, who serves as the Director of Communications and Outreach with the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership, to gain some insight into the best ways to experience the Susquehanna River in our three-county region.
But first things first – safety is paramount. No matter what adventure you choose, safety and planning are key. Always check water levels and weather forecasts before you go, and always share your plan with someone on shore.
Speaking of safety and preparation, check out the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership’s Quick Guide to Paddling to make sure you’re ready for adventure.
The Guide covers how to plan your route, how to arrange a shuttle, how to check your gear, the best way to dress and pack for success, and final safety checks.
What are some of the best areas of the Susquehanna River to explore?
Alana Jajko: The Susquehanna River Valley is at the center of everything from the vantage point of the river. Standing at Shikellamy Overlook in Union County, you can actually see the confluence unfold below, a stunning bird’s eye view where the West Branch and the North Branch flow together into the main stem.
Communities like Lewisburg and Selinsgrove, both designated Susquehanna Greenway River Towns, serve as welcoming gateways to outdoor recreation and scenic waypoints along your journey.
Middle Susquehanna River Keeper
Another local expert is John Zaktansky with the Middle Susquehanna River Keeper (MSRK). The Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association is a nonprofit organization that protects and promotes the Susquehanna River, its tributaries and the aquatic ecosystem it supports across an 11,000-square-mile watershed represented as the Middle Susquehanna river basin. The MSRK offers a plethora of educational opportunities, including a Floating Classroom, Vernal School, River Walks and much more.
Zaktansky said of a recent River Walk, “You never know what sort of experience a kid will have that sticks with them. Some of these young people may be the next generation of stewards for our river. Some may use the camera and develop a love of outdoor photography and videography. Others may walk away with a fascination with science or want to pursue fishing or some other river-related recreation. Ultimately, for all of them, we hope we at least plant a seed of appreciation for our aquatic ecosystem and a desire to better protect the fragile synergy across each level of it.”
Learn more about Middle Susquehanna River Keeper:
- Floating Classrooms on the Hiawatha
- Vernal School Environmental Education Partnership
- River Walks Immersive Learning Experience
Local River Outfitters
If you’re
in need of gear for a River adventure, check out these two local outfitters:
Bic’s Water Sports and Outdoor Adventures
State Parks with River Access
The region has two State Parks with easy access to the Susquehanna River.
The Milton State Park, which is an 82-acre island with the Susquehanna on all sides, offers boat launch areas, picnic areas, a playground, scenic walking paths, and fishing spots.
The northern half of the park has day use facilities and the southern half remains in a wooded state for hiking and nature study.
Learn more about Milton State Park:
- PA DCNR Website
- Susquehanna Greenway Website
The Shikellamy State Park is actually two parks – a Marina and a scenic overlook.
The Marina offers boat launches, picnic tables, covered pavilions, paved paths for walking or easy biking, and a close-up view of the River.
The Overlook is located on a 360-foot cliff overlooking the confluence of the river branches.
Both the Marine and Overlook are perfect selfie spots!
Learn more about Shikellamy State park:
- PA DCNR Website
- Susquehanna Greenway Website
