One of our favorite hikes, multiple waterfalls, a kid friendly creek splashing spot, and gorgeous views of the Susquehanna River. The best part? It's short and relatively easy, perfect for the whole family. It's a great summer spot to cool off, has tons of wildflowers in the Spring, and an awesome place to see frozen waterfalls in the winter. I realized recently that there was no record of this shorter version of the trail, so I am sharing it with you in hopes that other families can enjoy it as much as we have.
Your hike will start by crossing over the old Lock 12, a cool part of history built in the 1830s. Once crossing over the lock, turn left onto the Mason Dixon Trail. You be following along the Susquehanna River towards the Holtwood Dam. There are signs posted to keep alert for the sirens that warn you of a dam release. While we've heard to sirens plenty of times, we've never seen the dam released. For that reason I do not suggest swimming here, but definitely enjoy the views, it's beautiful!
You'll come to the ruins of an old building on your left, turn left here and follow the trail up to the road. Make a right onto the road and enjoy the views of the water fall on your left. After you cross the bridge you'll see the trail pick up on your left. Follow this trail, enjoying the waterfall views for about a half mile. There is a great creek splashing spot at the second water fall, perfect for kids. If you'd like to continue, you'll find the trail leads uphill to an overlook of the dam. This is an out and back trail. Once you're finished, turn around and head back the way you came. There are picnic tables available near the parking lot to enjoy a lunch or snack.
Hike details:
Location: Airville, PA
Distance: 1 mile or more. There are multiple options, depending on how much you want to explore, but typically this hike will be right around a mile.
Terrain: easy to moderate dirt trail, not accessible, no strollers.
Parking: 39.814465, -76.331304. Parking is on River Road, second lot on your right.
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