Start planning your spring getaway with these ten things to do in the Cumberland Valley!

1. Biking

Cumberland Valley is a perfect place for bikers, from the numerous mapped-out routes throughout the region to downtown Carlisle's bike-friendly streets. If you're just getting into biking, you can rent one at Holmes Cycling & Fitness and then try the flat surface of the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail. 

2. Spring Carlisle at Carlisle Fairgrounds

This year's Spring Carlisle is scheduled for April 21-25 and kicks off the Carlisle-based car show and swap meet season. Explore more than 8,000 vending spaces at one of the top 5 automotive swap meets in the world.

3. Gardening

Spring is when we can start to get back outside and work in our gardens. Plan a visit to places like Ashcombe Farm & Greenhouses, Highland Gardens, and Stauffers of Kissel Hill to stock up on outdoor plants and gardening supplies. Bring the spring updates into your house with flowers and home accessories from Blooms by Vickrey.

4. Hiking

The Valley offers so many great hiking opportunities that you will need all of spring and summer to find your favorite. Start with these Top 10 Hikes for a few ideas. In 2020, many of our parks and trails saw usage increase by 50% over the previous year. To help keep crowds to a manageable size, try our off-the-beaten-path trail suggestions. If a parking lot looks crowded, we suggest that you try to find a different location for your hike.

5. Cooking Classes

For many, cooking and baking become a hobby during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you want to have some fun while learning more about your new hobby, register to attend a cooking class at The Kitchen Shoppe with your friend or significant other. Class topics for spring include Italian cooking, cheese making, brunch, seafood, the flavors of Greece, and back-to-basic canning -- just to name a few. 

6. Dining Hotspots

At this time, local restaurants are open at 25% capacity (or 50% if they are self-certified). If you don't feel comfortable dining in, they are still providing delicious meals and drinks through takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup. And, as the weather warms up, take advantage of outdoor dining at many locations. Download our fun #CVEats menu checklist and help support local restaurants. Be sure to tag your favorite meal using #CVEats.

7. Children's Lake

Children's Lake in Boiling Springs is beautiful year-round. Stop by for a leisurely stroll and feed the ducks. If you want to learn a little bit more about the history of Boiling Springs, download a self-guided walking tour or pick up a printed copy at the Cumberland Valley Visitors Center in Carlisle.

8. Outdoor Adventure

Let the professionals plan a customized outdoor adventure for you any season of the year. Adventure Explorations can plan excursions that range from meditative and relaxing to full-throttle exertion. Whether it's rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, cycling, fishing, or something else, they take care of the details so you can relax and enjoy yourself. Best of all, each adventure can accommodate those with physical limitations so everyone -- regardless of age or ability -- can participate.

9. Bird Watching

There's nothing more synonymous with spring than the sound of chirping birds. Head out to find your favorites in the Valley with these Bird-Watching Hotspots including Flat Rock Trail, Kings Gap State Park, and the Conodoguinet Creek.

10. Fishing

The beginning of spring marks the start of trout season and Cumberland Valley's famous fly-fishing streams include the Yellow Breeches Creek, LeTort Spring Run, and Big Spring Creek. Statewide trout opening day for 2021 is scheduled for Saturday, April 3. Plan an overnight stay at Allenberry Resort, an Orvis-endorsed fly-fishing lodge, and explore our pristine waters. 

Find even more Spring Things to Do in the Valley here.