Spirits of the South Mountain

South Mountain is a collection of villages and communities that settled along the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains in South Central Pennsylvania.  The unique landscape of the mountain and valley supported fertile agriculture, timber that fed iron furnaces and plentiful game and wildlife in these communities, building strong cultural, agricultural and natural beauty resources for visitors to enjoy.

Half Day

Start your adventure in Michaux State Forest where your tour guide will uncover a top-secret, WW II Prisoner of War Camp ruins.

Next, tour the only museum in the country dedicated to hiking. Located in a 200 year old grist mill, the Appalachian Trail Museum features exhibits on some of the iconic pioneers of the Appalachian Trail, including Ziggy the Cat, who rode on a backpack for much of the trail's nearly 2,800 mile stretch. You may even run into an actual thru-hiker!

Full Day

Indulge your appetite with English fare and home-brew libations at Market Cross Pub & Brewery. Make sure to sample the annual car show brew, honoring a different show or make of car each year.

Your last stop will take you to the picturesque village of Boiling Springs, where you will take a guided Underground Railroad walking tour including sites on the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. You will enjoy walking in history's footsteps through scenic farmland, secret hiding places and period architecture.

If you'd like a souvenir, stop by the Village Artisans Gallery. Housed in a renovated church, this unique shop features American crafts from over 200 vendors.

Make it a Weekend

Extend your stay and travel the Cumberland Valley Beer Trail. Find local favorites and imported twists at themed and homey pubs and brewhouses.

Spend the next day traveling scenic back roads to Adams County, where you will enjoy the wineries, road side markets and rolling farmland beauty that make up the Gettysburg Wine and Fruit Trail.  Highlights of the day include a tour of Adams County Winery, featuring a 19th century Pennsylvania bank barn, tasting room and gift shop where award-winning wines can be purchased to take home.  Visitors will love the spectacular view of Hauser Estate Winery from the 360 degree glass enclosed tasting-room or from the outdoor deck - either way, miles of forests, orchards and farmland are viewable from this wineries' elevated position.

 

Must-See in Cumberland Valley

Discover and explore all the possibilities