Join Adam Zurn from Uncharted Lancaster for a guided hike through beautiful Shenks Ferry. Together, we will explore its rolling hills and hidden hollows as you learn the area’s vibrant history.
What to expect
This approximately 2.3-mile hike along primarily level terrain will involve crossing Grubb Run (the stream that flows through Shenks Ferry) three times at a moderate pace. There are a few short steep sections along the trail to navigate.
Dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. There’s always the possibility of wet feet as we cross the stream.
Bring drinking water and a flashlight. This hike will last approximately 2 hours.
Plus, I will have some special Uncharted Lancaster swag such as stickers, magnets, lapel pins, and 3″ patches for participants to choose from as a souvenir.
Parking
Park and check-in at the Shenks Ferry parking lot located at the bottom of Green Hill Road (off of Shenks Ferry Road) near the Susquehanna River. Here are the GPS coordinates (39.906088, -76.368039) and a Google Maps link. Be sure to drive to the bottom of the hill. That’s where you will find the parking lot.
Questions
Contact adam@unchartedlancaster.com if you have questions.
Here are some highlights of locations you will visit and things you will learn:
Ferry Crossing
Learn how in the early 1800s, Henry Shenks operated a ferry and hotel here, giving the location its name.

Death by Dynamite
Visit the site of the tragic dynamite factory explosion that killed 11 men on June 9, 1906.


Mysterious Stone Ruins
Our expedition will take us to the mysterious stone pillar that stands in the center of Grubbs Run, as well as the dark culvert at the end of the wildflower trail.


Haunted Tunnel
We will talk through the haunted of Shenks Ferry that is allegedly haunted by the ghost of a woman known as the “White Angel.”


Here’s the intrepid group of adventurers from the December 11, 2021, Shenks Ferry History Hike.
