NOTICE: In 2022, Lancaster Conservancy transferred Pinnacle Scenic Overlook to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. It is now part of Susquehannock State Park. Learn more on DCNR’s website.
Pinnacle Overlook was acquired by the Conservancy as part of a large landscape project funded by DCNR, The Conservation Fund, and York and Lancaster counties, and has always been an active public area with picnic spots, restrooms, and more, making it better suited to management as a state park. In 2022 after years of state park management, the Conservancy subdivided and transferred approximately 146 acres to DCNR, which will use its resources to maintain the site going forward.
Planning Your Hike
Pinnacle Scenic Overlook Nature Preserve provides visitors with a spectacular view from the scenic overlook and offers over 2.76 miles of moderate and difficult network of hiking trails that provide in-and-back, short, day, and loop hiking trails of varying lengths. From Pinnacle Scenic Overlook hikers can access Kellys Run and Tucquan Glen/Pyfer Nature Preserves and beyond via the Conestoga Trail.
Ecology and Management
Pinnacle Scenic Overlook is managed for its passive recreation as being of highest and best use.
Pinnacle Scenic Overlook is renowned for its cliffs and rock outcrops that provide an expansive view of the lower Susquehanna River Valley. Mixed, upland hardwoods fill the forest. Pinnacle Scenic Overlook Nature Preserve is managed in cooperation with the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (PA DCNR).
Watershed
Pinnacle Scenic Overlook rises high overlooking the Susquehanna River.
Hunting Information
Pinnacle Overlook is open to Mixed-Use and Archery-Only Hunting with areas of No-Hunting. It is your responsibility to be aware of the areas with hunting restrictions. Respect property boundaries and safety zones. All Pennsylvania Game Commission Rules and Regulations apply. See ‘Where to Hunt’ for more details.
Report Hunting Violations: PA Game Commission at 1-888-742-8001 or 610-926-3136
Acquisition History
This preserve was acquired as part of a nationally recognized landscape protection project known as the PPL Project. Funds for that Project were provided by the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, The Conservation Fund, Lancaster County, York County, PPL, Talen Energy, and Brookfield Renewable. The tracts that form the Pinnacle Scenic Overlook Nature Preserve were donated by PPL and Talen Energy.
Address
Old Pinnacle Road
Amenities
Parking. Port-a-john. Picnic tables. Preserve sign. Kiosk.