Outdoor Adventures Along the Susquehanna River Towns

Fresh air, scenic river views, and plenty of opportunities for adventure make the Susquehanna River Towns region one of Lancaster County's best destinations for outdoor recreation. The neighboring communities of Marietta, Columbia, and Wrightsville offer easy access to the Susquehanna River, miles of trails, and unforgettable experiences on land and water. After a day of exploring, there's no better place to relax and recharge than B.F. Hiestand House Bed & Breakfast in the heart of historic Marietta.

Paddle the Susquehanna River

The Susquehanna River is the centerpiece of the River Towns, inviting visitors to slow down and experience the area's natural beauty from the water. Kayaking offers a peaceful way to glide past wooded shorelines, rocky outcroppings, and historic landmarks while spotting birds, turtles, and other wildlife along the way.

For an easy way to get started, Chiques Rock Outfitters has been helping visitors enjoy the river since 2009, when owners Marty Cox and Ranae Tibbens started out with just a handful of kayaks and canoes. Now a full-service outfitter, they offer single and tandem kayaks, canoes, and guided trips from Columbia River Park, which is also home to the Columbia Crossing River Trails Center. Rentals are available by the hour or for half-day and full-day adventures, with paddles, life vests, and basic instruction included. Longer excursions even include shuttle service to your launch point, allowing you to spend more time on the water.

Visitors looking for a self-guided experience can also book with kayakLanCo, Lancaster County's mobile kayak outfitter. They handle the planning, provide all the equipment, and help you get launched before meeting you at the end of your trip. One of their most popular routes is the Chickies Rock Water Trail, a scenic 2.5-mile paddle from Marietta to Columbia. Along the way, you'll pass Chiques Creek, paddle beneath the towering Chickies Rock overlook, weave around the stone piers from the former Columbia-Wrightsville bridges, and finish beneath today's impressive Veterans Memorial Bridge. Another favorite is the Columbia Bridges Tour, a relaxed paddle around the bridges and islands surrounding Columbia River Park that's especially beautiful at sunset.

Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Stand-up paddleboarding offers another fun way to experience the Susquehanna, and beginners are welcome. Susquehanna SUP, owned by Marietta native Alicia Brommer, shares her passion for the river through classes, guided tours, and rentals designed for paddlers of every skill level.

First-timers can build confidence during the Intro to SUP class, which covers the basics before heading out on the water. Looking for something a little different? SUP Yoga combines a short paddle with a relaxing yoga session anchored on the river. Early risers can greet the day during a Sunrise SUP paddle, where calm water and colorful skies create a memorable start to the morning.

Guided tours take paddlers to some of the region's most beautiful locations. Explore the Conejohela Flats, an Important Bird Area recognized by the National Audubon Society that's home to a wide variety of migratory birds. Venture through the rocky channels and hidden coves of the Conowingo Islands or paddle beneath the iconic Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge while learning more about the river's history. Every class includes a paddleboard, paddle, and life vest, making it easy to simply show up ready for adventure.

Explore by Bike

The River Towns are just as enjoyable on two wheels. Chiques Rock Outfitters partners with The Cycle Works in Wrightsville to offer bicycle and e-bike rentals along two of the area's most popular trails: the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail and the Enola Low Grade Trail.

The Northwest Lancaster County River Trail stretches for 14 scenic miles along the Susquehanna, connecting Columbia and Marietta while passing historic iron furnace ruins, wooded landscapes, and sweeping river views. Riders can stop in Marietta for lunch, grab a snack, or simply enjoy strolling through the town before continuing their ride.

Visitors who can't decide between biking and paddling can enjoy both with the Northwest Pedal Paddle adventure. The experience begins with a 7.5-mile bike ride from Columbia Crossing to Marietta. After a relaxing break in town, participants switch gears and paddle the Susquehanna Water Trail back to Columbia by kayak. It's a fun way to experience the river from two completely different perspectives in a single outing.

Make the Most of Your River Towns Getaway

Outdoor adventures are around every corner in Marietta, Columbia, and Wrightsville. Spend the morning paddling peaceful waters, the afternoon cycling scenic trails, and the evening watching the sunset over the Susquehanna before returning to the comfortable accommodations of B.F. Hiestand House. It's the perfect home base for discovering everything the River Towns have to offer while enjoying a relaxing Lancaster County getaway.