Cruising the Susquehanna River

Scenery, wildlife, and history combine on this cruise along the Susquehanna River aboard the boat Chief Uncas. During this 1.5-hour cruise, we’ll learn the importance of the Susquehanna to all who have lived here from 12,000 years ago to now. We may see the fish traps left in the river bottom by the Paleoindians and hear about the special landscape of Lake Clarke with its modern-day dams and the stories of influential people who built this area. And we’ll watch for birds and wildlife along the way.

The Susquehanna National Heritage Area operates the Chief Uncas in tandem with the National Park Service. This electric-powered boat was built in 1912 for beer tycoon Adolphus Busch to cruise Otsego Lake in New York, the headwaters of the Susquehanna. It is fitting that it remains in operation along the river today, with over 100 years in service.

After the cruise, picnic at the national heritage area then tour the Zimmerman House, full of local history. Finish the afternoon with a walk through the Native Lands Park, the 160-acre site preserving a Susquehannock settlement from the 1600s. Information here: https://www.nps.gov/cajo/zimmerman-center-for-heritage.htm.

• The exact meeting location will be listed in your confirmation email after payment has been received.
• All passengers must be able to navigate the boat ramp and dock and board the vessel. This boat is not ADA handicap accessible and requires passengers to climb 3 steps with a handrail to reach the entrance and climb down a 3-step ladder with handrails into the vessel to board.  A crew member is on the deck for assistance and the captain is inside to offer help. While the property is fully ADA accessible, the historic vessel is not, and SNHA is working to increase accessibility in the future.
• Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. There is limited shelter on this open boat. It will be cooler on the river.
• Wear rubber-soled shoes for slippery surfaces. No heels, no flip-flops.
• Bring water, snacks, or a lunch to eat on the boat or after on the dock. For the dock, bring an outdoor chair to enjoy a view of the river after the cruise.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Bring your camera and accessories.
• Bring binoculars to see birds and wildlife along the way.
• One chaperone over 21 years of age is required for each child. Children over age 10 are welcome to attend. There is no discount ticket for children.

NEW – Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within seven days of the event will not receive a refund. Events with fees of $10 or less are not refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.

For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.