Marysville Borough - An Outdoors Delight

The sign pictured above is located near the center of town in conjunction with the railroaders memorial.

After living in the South Central Pennsylvania area for nearly eight years and driving by Marysville countless times, I felt compelled to nominate the town as the "inaugural" stop for The Boro Dude travel blog and spend quality time exploring what it has to offer. I would be lying if I said I was not only surprised by what I experienced, but also eager to return soon when we are blessed with warmer weather due to the numerous outdoor recreational opportunities the town offers.

Situated just several miles north of Harrisburg, Marysville Borough is bordered by the Susquehanna River to the east and mountains to the north and south. Settled in 1755, the town is best known as the "Home of the Rockville Bridge", an unmistakable landmark evident as you approach the Borough from US 11/15. Constructed in 1902 for rail transportation, it is the longest stone arch bridge in the world and was been named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. The bridge is still active and freight cars can be seen crossing the Susquehanna regularly here, making for a great photo opportunity. A more complete historical account of the bridge can be found using this link.

A Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission in town provides a brief history of the Rockville Bridge.

A snapshot of the Rockville Bridge from the south looking upstream along the Susquehanna River.

If you care to endeavor for a closer look at the bridge, or if you want to cast a line to see what may be lurking below it, there are several public access points to enter the river within the limits of the Borough. An excellent local business Blue Mountain Outfitters would be a recommended first stop to gear up before a water adventure.

Working my way into the Borough from the river, I discovered a quaint town center that embraces its history of railroaders and veterans, but also celebrates its small businesses and public amenities. Find a nice bite to eat at Zeiderelli's Pizza and Subs to fuel up before heading up to Cove Mountain for a hike in the nature preserve that overlooks the town. Or, if you prefer less elevation gain as part of your time spent in town, I would recommend walking down to the Marysville Lions Club Park on the south end of town. Here you can find a variety of ballparks, ponds and Fishing Creek, a paved walking trail, and best of all, a community pool open during warmer months. While walking there, be sure to admire the variety of architecture displayed by the historic residences and buildings that give the Borough its character.

The entrance to the Cove Mountain trail located at the north side of town.

A residence located near the south end of the Borough before reaching the Lions Club Park.

The pond and paved walking path located at the Lions Club Park.

Reflecting upon my time spent in Marysville, I would argue that one could spend an entire day exploring both the natural and built features of town, as well as learning about who helped build it and the significance of the landmark the Rockville Bridge represents. Whether you are just passing through the area, or staying near Harrisburg for a period of time, I would recommend giving Marysville a visit, especially if your into the outdoors. If you need additional encouragement take a look at the rest of my photos posted in the gallery. I am thankful I chose Marysville as the initial subject for this blog and I will undoubtedly return to further highlight the qualities of the Borough during a different season.

Until then, onto the next town.

-The Boro Dude