Adventure Awaits
Whether you are feeling adventurous or are looking for tranquility, Hanover’s best nature-based attractions have it all. Experience a full day of fun at Codorus State Park and Long Arm Reservoir, take a scenic walk along the Hanover Trolley Trail, or discover your inner explorer on the Hanover Geo Trail.
Codorus State Park | Marina Dr. | (717) 637-8000 | dcnr.pa.gov
Hanover is home to Codorus State Park, conveniently located just a couple of miles from Downtown Hanover. With 3,500 acres of forests, fields, wetlands, and a lake, Codorus is sure to please nature lovers of all ages. Once home to the Susquehannock Indians and German settlers, Codorus is rich in history. In the mid-1700s, Mary Ann Furnace, believed to be the first charcoal furnace west of the Susquehanna River, operated in what is part of the present-day park. The furnace produced cannon balls and grapeshot for the Continental Army. Codorus began to take its present form after the state acquired the land in the mid-1960s, and the park officially opened in 1970. For those visiting in the warmer seasons, Codorus has both water and land-based activities. Spend the day on Lake Marburg, a man-made lake extending across the entire park. The lake is the perfect place for fishing, boating, and kayaking. Codorus also boasts 19 miles of trails for visitors who prefer to remain on land. There are trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Visiting Codorus State Park is not only a warm weather activity; the park is also a prime destination for winter sports. Codorus offers 6.5 miles of trails for skiing and snowmobiling as well as multiple slopes for sledding and a designated ice-skating area.
Long Arm Reservoir | 53 Grand Valley Rd. | (717) 637-3877
If you are looking for a quieter natural destination in Hanover, be sure to check out Long Arm Reservoir. The park is an ideal destination for birdwatching, fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. In addition, the park is well-known for its sunsets and is also a perfect location for stargazing. Please note that the park closes after dark, so those wishing to remain after sunset will need to submit a formal request to the Borough of Hanover. Visitors can only stay in the park after permission has been granted.
Hanover Trolley Trail | 403 Moul Ave.| yorkcountytrails.org
Looking for a way to squeeze in some exercise during your visit to Hanover? Check out the Hanover Trolley Trail, a popular destination for walking, running, and biking. A trolley once ran between Hanover and York, providing transportation for both business and leisure passengers; however, the growing popularity of the automobile eventually led to the trolley's demise. Although there is no active trolley in sight today, the historical significance of the trail is preserved in its new incarnation as a recreation destination. A two-mile stretch of the trail is located in Penn Township and the Hanover Borough, extending from Moul Field to Gitts Run Road. Parking is available at Moul Field.
Hanover Geo Trail | Locations throughout Hanover | (717) 637-6130
If the inner explorer in you is itching to come out, give the Hanover Geo Trail a try! Geocaching is an ideal way to explore popular destinations in Hanover while also experiencing some of the less traveled parts of town. The Hanover Geo Trail features over 20 caches located in Downtown Hanover, West Manheim Park, and Codorus State Park. Official passports for the trail are available at mainstreethanover.org.
Come out and enjoy the natural side of Hanover today!