Southern Observation Platform - York, PA - Scenic Overlooks on Waymarking.com

The scenic overlook has an orientation which is very important given the huge vistas visitors are afforded. The view is endless and the orientation table gives you an idea of what is around you for 25 miles (Kittatinny Mountain) and as close as 4 miles (Lancaster Resource Recovery Facility). There is one famous landmark on this map, Three Mile Island. Perhaps you have heard of it?

The posted coordinates is for the southern look-out platform. Here you will find an interpretive on red-tailed hawks with an explanation on their migration habits, how they use currents. thermals and drafts to conserve energy and soar around and other important particulars. I have been here on many occasion and have seen the hawks up close and personal The view of the valley is amazing.

There are two observation decks located in the park. One deck is located on the north side of the park and offers a panoramic view of the Susquehanna Valley (ADA accessible). The other deck is located on the south side of the park and offers a view of the York Valley. A popular spring and fall event with both observation decks offering watchers a chance to view hawks, eagles and falcons along with other migratory birds as they head south in the winter and north in the spring.

Ninety percent of this 750 acre park is a mature oak forest. Rocky Ridge was acquired in 1968, making it the first county park. It is perched on a rock-strewn hilltop northwest of Hallam, one of the first places the county's original settlers, who crossed the Susquehanna River, established homes.

There is a parking lot available for this look-out point. Once you park, it is a short walk. It is very, very steep as this is a rocky and mountainous region. Be careful but bring a camera.

Enter the park here: N 40° 00.469 W 076° 39.937
Park you car here: N 40° 00.720 W 076° 39.207