Explore Outdoors: Climbers Run Nature Preserve in Lancaster County
The Susquehanna Valley has many places where the whole family can get outside and see nature.
As part of our "Explore Outdoors" series, WGAL News 8's Matt Barcaro takes you to a nature preserve in southern Lancaster County.
We start in a stream at Climbers Run Nature Preserve in Martic Township. What Keith Williams is finding under rocks is a good indicator of what else you can find yourself at the preserve.
Insects are making a comeback.
"This is exactly what we want to see. This is a healthy stream. Yeah, this is good stuff," said Williams, who is with the Lancaster Conservancy.
That healthy stream is supporting life all around it.
Once you get under the canopy, it's like a whole different place.
"It definitely is. You feel the temperature change, the humidity changes, the noise changes, right, the soundscape," Williams said.
Climbers Run features two miles of hiking trails.
Some of it is a little rocky and requires some scrambling and maneuvering to get through.
But the views have variety.
"We've got a whole other trail loop that goes through the valley, through the meadow, that's really flat and easy. And so, you show up and you can kind of pick your adventure for the day," Williams said.
That's what makes the preserve so family-friendly. It's a great place to get your feet wet and do a little exploring.
"These places are important for personal reasons. This is where I come to get my battery recharged," Williams said.
And remember those insects that indicate a healthy stream?
They're at the bottom of the food chain, helping support a forest full of wildlife – from the bigger bugs to fish, frogs and toads. That's just the start.
"We've got a mink that shows up every once in a while," Williams said.
Visitors may also spot deer, turkey, and more than 90 species of birds.
But it's the view of Climbers Run that is the preserve's biggest draw and a great getaway for the entire family.
"How many times have I heard my kids? 'I'm bored.' I'm like, well, go outside. You're bored in front of your computer. It's not boring out there. Go check it out," Williams said.
Send us your suggestions
If there's a place in the Susquehanna Valley that Matt should check out or an activity he should try, email us at news8@wgal.com.