Hike the Ranger Trails at Codorus State Park

I'll be honest. I wasn't expecting much from Codorus State Park. But, my Saturday was open and I wanted to go somewhere I wouldn't have to fight for legroom. I didn't need anything majestic--just some space. Codorus, centrally located in the picturesque hills of York County, PA, seemed to fit the bill. Its website described a few trails, a boat ramp, some car camping; this was the kind of airy, accessible park I was seeking. 

What I found though, on those 5ish miles of trails, surprised me. The path passed from one kind of forest to another. At one point I found myself standing in some kind of magic pine stand I've only seen in pictures. The grandeur of these trees was overwhelming and impossible to capture in a camera snap. (Look for it where Loop 1 meets Loop 2.)

Other highlights include spacious shoreline on which to picnic, a tromp behind some soybean fields that feels kind of like trespassing, and more birds (deer, rabbits, geese, toads) than you can aim a lens at. There's plenty of parking here, and I recommend the lot on the north side of Sinsheim Road. The visitor's center is well-appointed with literature and exhibits, and trails are groomed and easy to follow. 

Next time you need some quiet time in the woods or next to water, I (humbly) suggest Codorus.