Described as a blend between a mango and banana, the pawpaw is Pennsylvania’s largest native fruit. However, you will not find them on grocery store shelves, as their shelf life is extremely brief, turning from unripe to overripe in a week or less. This fruit was a favorite of early US presidents and a tasty morsal to mastodons. Fossilized seeds indicate the pawpaw has been part of the human North American diet since 300BC.
During this 2.2-mile strenuous hike, we will hike up the hillside above the Enola Low-grade Rail Trail on a rocky trail. Along the way, learn about pawpaws: their history on the landscape, their pollinators, and how to identify these fruit-bearing trees. On our out-and-back hike we will pause at an overlook to take in the Susquehanna River.
(Please note: we will not be foraging during this hike.)
This event is part of Horn Farm Center’s Wild & Uncommon Weekend, a weekend of family-friendly events and experiences that celebrate the unique food, art, and natural landscape of York County, Pennsylvania! Lancaster Conservancy is excited to participate in this weekend of fun activities around the Susquehanna Riverlands.
What to Expect: Anticipate a steep, rocky uphill and then a steep, rocky downhill on this out-and-back route. This hike is ideal for those comfortable hiking uphill right at the start of a hike and with prior hiking experience. A port-a-john is available on site. This hike is for ages 13 and up (participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult).
What to Bring: Wear sturdy hiking shoes. Bring water, a snack, and pertinent personal first aid/medications. Hiking poles may be useful. Headlamps are encouraged since we’ll be hiking past sunset.
Refund Policy: If you are unable to attend this event after purchasing a ticket, refund requests must be made at least 48 hours before the event.
Cancellation Policy: This event will be held rain or shine, with cancellation for severe weather made at the time of the event. If the Conservancy reschedules the event, attendees will be emailed and tickets will be automatically moved to the new date. If the Conservancy cancels the event, attendees will be notified via email when possible and refunded.
