As a local of Lancaster County, I know many people come to see the Amish, the farms, the rolling hills and all things "Dutchy." Some tourists may try to make a day trip in order to save money but still have fun. Many, however, may forget to visit the Susquehanna River or try something other than shoo-fly pies and soft pretzels. While Hershey Park and the Tanger Outlets are fun places to go, tourists can see another side of Lancaster that is just as fascinating for less than $100.
Chickies Rock is known to many Lancasterians for its scenic overlook along with countless other trails over 400 acres of woods. About 30 miles away from Lancaster city, Chickies has amazing views of the Susquehanna, historical sites throughout the park and is even rumored to be haunted. One particularly scenic spot is Overlook, from which you can see the river, York County and northeastern Lancaster County.
There are three different trails you can take to get to Overlook that are all roughly the same distance but some trails are harder than others. While the trails are unnamed, there is a sign at the beginning of all three which show the directions of each trail. The main way takes you on a simple trail around a steep hill and shows you old railways and interesting plants along the way. On this trail there are no obstacles or hills to climb. The harder trails have you climb up the side of the hill where there is a cool canopy with plenty to explore underneath. The trails are not hard to find if you stray and they are perfect to teach children about nature or just to explore one afternoon. While there are a few more fallen trees to hop over, the trails are not difficult to follow. Depending on how much you meander, the trails should not take more than 15 minutes to hike.
Once you arrive at Overlook there are two viewpoints. To see one view you need to climb down while the other you can simply walk to. Both are worth the hike. There are no water fountains or bathrooms at the overlook so I suggest bringing a bottle of water and a snack. It's a perfect excuse to sit on one of the rocks and enjoy the view.
After conquering Chickies, you may want to head back into the city for some unexpected home cooking. La Cocina Mexicana is an authentic Mexican restaurant that is located on Prince Street right next to Central Market. Unknown to many tourists, Lancaster County has a large Hispanic population. They have brought music festivals, art and some fantastic food. La Cocina Mexicana makes all their food from scratch and traditionally. Their meals are large but won't break the bank. A plate of enchiladas verdes costs about $9 and will leave you too full for flan. If you still have room, you can also go to Carmen and David's creamery which is just down the street from La Cocina. Its ice cream is priced at around $2 a cone and has been known to have customers lined up around the building, eager for a treat.
Altogether, including the cost of the gas from Lancaster city to Chickies Rock and back, lunch at La Cocina and some ice cream at Carmen and David's, the day trip should be no more than $100. It is a great inexpensive way to see Lancaster and all of its unmarked attractions without the other tourists and buggies in your way.
Molly Sams - Molly Sams is a professional writing student at Kutztown University. She has worked on a student newspaper and wishes to continue ...
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