Autumn Outdoor Adventures In The Susquehanna River Valley

"After a day’s walk, everything has twice its usual value." - G.M. Trevelyan

Hikers of all ages and skill levels will find a plethora of year-round opportunities to explore parks, forest and trails in the Susquehanna River Valley. Trails provide stunning views, peaceful scenery and meaningful connection to the great outdoors and with hiking buddies. Regardless of the season, there is a treasure to be found at every turn that will amaze and excite you. So, lace up your boots, hit the trails and rejoice in the beauty of every season in the River Valley.  Gorgeous Fall Hikes in the Susquehanna River Valley

“You are one ride away from a good mood.” — Sarah Bentley, British cyclist

The Susquehanna River Valley is the perfect Mid-Atlantic cycling destination for riders of every age and stage. Central Pennsylvania is superb for bicycling, whether you like an easy ride on a local rail trail, longer road rides through the countryside or strenuous mountain biking through gorgeous forest lands. Summer is morphing into autumn which is arguably one of the best times of year for riding bikes. It’s a season when nature’s fall décor provides the perfect venue for riding. The fall foliage is spectacular. The sunlight in the brilliant dancing leaves creates a wonderful show. And the temperature is crisp and cool with lovely breezes. You absolutely must take advantage of cycling in the Susquehanna River Valley at this incredible time of year. Read more.

“No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle.” - Winston Churchill

Meander through fields and forests ablaze in autumn colors on horseback in the Susquehanna River Valley. 
State forests, parks and game lands offer shared use trails to thrill all riders who have a longing to ride in free wild spaces. 

Susquehanna River Valley Equestrian Centers offer training, camps, shows, clinics and lessons for riders of all ages and experience levels. They also offer full care, permanent and temporary boarding facilities for your horse. Read more.

"The most important shot in golf is the next one." – Ben Hogan

Golf clubs around the Susquehanna River Valley offer challenging courses abounding with spectacular fall colors and views. Read more.

“Paradise is just a paddle away.” – Author unknown

Kayaking and canoeing in the early fall provides a unique view of Autumn's splendor. Head to an area lake or the majestic Susquehanna River for a moving picture show of colorful falling leaves. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the banks.

Lakes and Rivers in the Susquehanna River Valley

“Having a fishing rod in your hand is merely an excuse to explore out-of-sight depths and reveal mysteries that previously only existed in dreams.” – Fennel Hudson   

Fall is also a great season for fishing. The fish are more active and they are just about everywhere. Plus, the pleasurable fall temperatures mean that the never-ending buzz of mosquitoes and the annoying swirls of gnats are almost gone. The shoreline scenery is alive with brilliant shades of red, yellow and orange. Autumn displays Mother Nature’s finest work and there is no time like fall for great fishing. Read more.

“Immerse yourself in the outdoor experience. It will cleanse your soul and make you a better person.” – Fred Bear

Hunters are welcome in Pennsylvania State Parks. About 487 acres of R. B. Winter State Park are open to hunting, trapping and the training of dogs during established seasons. Common game species are deer, bear, wild turkey, woodcock, squirrel and grouse. Read more.

“You’ll never find the best roads where the streets are paved.” Bob Marley.

The geography and geology of the coal region has made outdoor recreation a game-changer for the region, gaining recognition nationwide as an off-road riding destination. The Coal Heritage region is home to Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA), one of the top 10 destinations for ATVs, full-size vehicles and dirt bikes.
Adjacent to AOAA is Famous Reading Outdoors. Combined, these two ATV destinations offer 30,000 acres of outdoor adventure.  Read more.

“The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek.” - Joseph Campbell

Head west to explore the magnificent geological formations found in Susquehanna River Valley caves and caverns.  Be awed and amazed. Take a guided boat tour of America’s only all water cavern, view stunning up-lit rocks, tour spectacular crystal caverns, and tour the 300 ft “Hall of Statues”, found in one of the largest caverns in Pennsylvania. Read more.

“Man is most nearly himself when he achieves the seriousness of a child at play.” - Heraclitus

Outdoor recreation can be fast and furious - a heart pounding pedal up a mountain and an exhilarating race to the bottom – or it can be simple and easy: a walk with your dog on a trail, or pushing a child sky-high on a swing. 

We celebrate the outdoor athlete, the quiet nature lover and those who embrace life and release energy by simply playing with a child at a playground, trail or community park. Find resources for those looking for a park, playground or trail. Read more.