
October 9 is National Motorcycle Ride Day, and we can't think of a better way to explore Pennsylvania Dutch Country than on a motorcycle. In honor of the occasion, our real estate agents are excited to share some of our favorite scenic drives in the Harrisburg and Lancaster areas!
- US-15 - Summerdale, PA to Shamokin Dam
U.S. Route 15 traverses nearly 800 miles from North Carolina to New York, but the 50-mile stretch from Summerdale, PA to Shamokin Dam is one of the most scenic. This section of US-15 runs alongside the mighty Susquehanna River and offers some truly spectacular views. The starting point is just across the river from these Harrisburg homes for sale. There are numerous parks and pull-offs along the way where you can stop and enjoy the river scenery, including McKee's Half Falls Rest Area.
- PA-340 - Downingtown, PA to Lancaster, PA
A 30-mile state highway that cuts through the heart of Dutch Country, Pennsylvania Route 340 is a straight shot across Lancaster and Chester counties. There's some beautiful scenery along the way, especially as the leaves begin to turn in fall. Expect rolling farmland, forests, and small communities, with quite a few Amish shops and farm stands where you can stop and shop. Bird In Hand Family Restaurant is a great place to stop for a bite. The only thing to watch for is traffic, which can get a little heavy as you start to get into Lancaster.
- PA-233 / PA-34 -Michaux State Forest
Encompassing over 80,000 acres of beautiful mountain scenery, Michaux State Forest is perfect for a peaceful motorcycle ride. To drive the length of the state forest, start at the Caledonia Furnace Monument parking area at the junction of PA-233 and US-30. From there, PA-233 meanders through the densely wooded landscape, eventually becoming PA-34. The road can be twisty at times, so it's a trip best suited to experienced riders, but the scenery is stunning. There are also some great historical sites along the way, including the Appalachian Trail Museum and Pine Grove Furnace. Total length of the trip is about 20 miles one-way.
- Covered Bridge Tour - Ephrata PA
Pennsylvania Dutch Country is home to some of Pennsylvania's most beautiful, historic covered bridges. This scenic driving route created by the folks at Discover Lancaster is a lovely loop that includes five of the most picturesque covered bridges. The loop starts and ends in Ephrata, PA, utilizes several state and local highways, and includes the county's oldest covered bridge still in use—Bitzer's Mill Bridge, built in 1846. Historic Churchtown, PA is roughly the midpoint of the trip and offers a perfect chance to stretch your legs and check out some Amish shops.
- PA-125 - Shamokin to Pine Grove
Pennsylvania Route 125 traverses 32 miles of Schuylkill and Northumberland Counties, less than an hour northeast of Harrisburg. The route offers a beautiful drive through the ridges and valleys of Pennsylvania's Appalachian Mountains, beginning in the community of Shamokin and heading south toward Pine Grove. PA-125 is winding at times but rewards motorcyclists with some fine views. Stop for a bite to eat at the Brickyard Bistro in Pine Grove, and if you get to the end and still have gas in the tank, turn onto PA-443 and follow it to the beautiful Swatara State Park.
Contact us today to learn more about life in Pennsylvania! It's a beautiful place to call home and offers endless opportunities for adventure on the open road. Be sure to ask our real estate agents about finding your dream home in Harrisburg, Lancaster, and the surrounding areas.