Located 330-feet above the Susquehanna River near York, Pennsylvania on the very edge of York County sits the Schull's Rock Overlook where visitors will find breathtaking, panoramic views of the Susquehanna River.
This easy 1.3 mile hike leads visitors out to Schull's Rock by following the Overlook Trail to reach beautiful views of the river, passing picturesque Pennsylvanian farmlands along the way.
The trail leads northward as it skirts alongside a privately-owned farm with picturesque views of Pennsylvania's rolling farmlands and hills. The trail dips into the forest, following yellow blazes, for a short while before it leads further along more open farmland fields. The Overlook Trail curves a large bend before it leads back into the forest once more to reach the Schull's Rock Overlook. Once you head back into the forest, simply keep left at the immediate trail junction and be on the lookout for a sign labeled "Overlook at Schull's Rock".
Snakes: Pennsylvania is home to the Timber Rattlesnake and Copperhead which can be found roaming the forest between April and October each year. These snakes like to bask in exposed, rocky areas so while they're very rare to run into, be on the lookout and give any you find plenty of space.
Hunting: During hunting season, this state park is open for rifle and other forms of hunting. Please check the PA DCNR website for updated information on when and where hunting is permitted.
This easy 1.3 mile hike leads visitors out to Schull's Rock by following the Overlook Trail to reach beautiful views of the river, passing picturesque Pennsylvanian farmlands along the way.
Easy Hike to Schull's Rock
This hike begins in the heart of Susquehanna River State Park along River Farm Road where the Overlook Trail trailhead is located on the north side of the road, directly across from the parking lot. Note that the Overlook Trail is relatively flat, but undulates its way out toward the overlook, so plan on gaining a small amount of exercise along this short but easy hike.The trail leads northward as it skirts alongside a privately-owned farm with picturesque views of Pennsylvania's rolling farmlands and hills. The trail dips into the forest, following yellow blazes, for a short while before it leads further along more open farmland fields. The Overlook Trail curves a large bend before it leads back into the forest once more to reach the Schull's Rock Overlook. Once you head back into the forest, simply keep left at the immediate trail junction and be on the lookout for a sign labeled "Overlook at Schull's Rock".
Views from Schull's Rock - Mile 0.65
Located approximately 0.65 miles from the trailhead, Schull's Rock juts out from the riverside bluffs where visitors and hikers will find breathtaking, panoramic views of the Susquehanna River as it stretches north and south. To the north sits Shock's Mill Bridge that spans the river with Haldeman Island sitting behind. To the south, the river flows toward Maryland as it passes more steep hills and bluffs, providing a scenic backdrop for visitors. The panoramic views at Schull's Rock span a 180-degree arc, but be warned that with the flowing river below your feet paired with the ~330-foot tall drop-off, the views can create a dizzying effect. Stay back from the cliff's edge for your own saftey.Hiking Back to Parking - Mile 0.65 - 1.3
After exploring the scenic Susquehanna River views from Schull's Rock, the hike back to parking is straight forward but includes most of the uphill walking that the Overlook Trail has to offer. Pass through the scenic Pennsylvania farmlands (staying on-trail) to reach the parking lot for a short and easy 1.3 mile out-and-back hike to the Overlook at Schull's Rock.Parking & How to Get to Schull's Rock Overlook
The Overlook Trail provides a small parking lot for visitors, located on the south side of River Farm Road in Susquehanna River State Park, located at the following coordinates: 40.049599, -76.636451. The parking lot is large enough to fit less than 15 vehicles as of January 2026.Pets
Dogs are allowed only if leashed and must be cleaned up after.Explore More River Views!
The Susquehanna River offers endless opportunities for hikers and nature lovers to discover breathtaking vistas. Whether you are chasing the golden hour or looking for a rugged trek, the river hills of Central Pennsylvania never disappoint. Before you leave the area, consider exploring these short, family-friendly and stunning river views in York and Lancaster Counties: Highpoint Scenic Vista, Chickies Rock Overlook, Breezyview Overlook, Star Rock Overlook, House Rock Overlook, and Hawk Point & Wissler Run Overlooks.Warning
Steep cliffs: Schull's Rock includes steep cliffs with sheer drop-offs. Stay away from the edge at all times for your own safety.Snakes: Pennsylvania is home to the Timber Rattlesnake and Copperhead which can be found roaming the forest between April and October each year. These snakes like to bask in exposed, rocky areas so while they're very rare to run into, be on the lookout and give any you find plenty of space.
Hunting: During hunting season, this state park is open for rifle and other forms of hunting. Please check the PA DCNR website for updated information on when and where hunting is permitted.
