WORMLEYSBURG KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Seven Miles Down the Susquehanna: Wildlife, Riffles and the World's Longest Stone‑Arch Railroad Bridge
A shuttle-and-rental offering from Susquehanna Outfitters places paddlers at historic Fort Hunter for a 7‑mile downstream float that combines wildlife viewing, gentle rapids, and a memorable passage beneath a stone‑arch railroad bridge.
Seven Miles Down the Susquehanna: Wildlife, Riffles and the World's Longest Stone‑Arch Railroad Bridge.
Launch from Fort Hunter and set a steady downstream rhythm across seven miles of the Susquehanna River—an outing that threads through Dauphin Narrows, skims lush river islands that host dense bird colonies, and rolls through fun, moderate riffles before finishing back at the operator’s site.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A River Built for Birds and Beasts
The float passes secluded islands and shorelines where beaver, mink, herons and bald eagles are regularly sighted; the corridor includes the largest nesting island for wading birds in Pennsylvania, making the trip a steady wildlife watch.
Under the Longest Stone‑Arch Railroad Bridge
Midway through the route paddlers glide beneath the world’s longest stone‑arch railroad bridge—an arresting architectural landmark that frames brief swifter riffles upstream and downstream.
Seven Miles of Flowing Variety
This 7‑mile downstream float moves through calm pools, riffled stretches that are lively but not extreme, and quiet side channels—balance that makes the trip moderate in difficulty while still accessible to ambitious beginners.
What the day feels like
What the Six‑Hour Shuttle Feels Like
Expect a deliberate, unhurried day on the water: a shuttle puts you at Fort Hunter to launch downstream, you paddle through a mix of placid and riffled water with ample opportunities to stop and scan riverbanks and islands, and you finish back at Susquehanna Outfitters after the float.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this float suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Meet at Susquehanna Outfitters (333 S Front St., Wormleysburg) 20 minutes before your scheduled shuttle time; shuttle departures are listed at 10:00 am and 12:00 pm.
Your booking includes the shuttle to West Hunter Park, vessel (kayak, board, or canoe), paddles, life jackets, and an introductory safety talk.
Bring sun protection, a water bottle, suitable footwear for launching, and any binoculars or camera gear. The operator supplies PFDs and paddles.
Rates vary by craft; personal boats and rentals have specific fees and a small pet fee applies when dogs ride in a tandem kayak or canoe—see operator pricing for details.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where and when do I meet for the trip?
Meet 20 minutes before your scheduled time at Susquehanna Outfitters, 333 S Front St., Wormleysburg, PA 17043.
What are the shuttle departure times?
Shuttle times are listed at 10:00 am and 12:00 pm.
How long and how far is the float?
The outing is a 7‑mile downstream float; the offering is titled 'Six Hour Shuttle and Rental,' which describes the shuttle and rental package.
What gear and safety items are provided?
The operator provides the shuttle, a kayak/board/canoe rental (if selected), paddles, life jackets, and an introductory safety talk.
Are dogs allowed and is there a fee?
Dogs are welcome on a tandem kayak or a canoe for a small pet fee of $5.
What are the rental rates?
Rates include: Personal Boat (per person) $30; Single Kayak $75; Stand Up Paddle Board $80; Tandem Kayak $95; Canoe $95. Additional child 12 and under rides free; additional adult (13 and up) $15.
Is this trip suitable for first‑time paddlers?
The trip is rated moderate and is appropriate for ambitious beginners who are comfortable with continuous paddling and basic boat handling through gentle riffles.