Duncannon lies on the banks of the Susquehanna River, where the Juniata River flows into it. The Appalachian Trail runs right through town. There are also canoe and kayak launches on two waterways, as well as several specific points of connection to culture and history. This makes Duncannon a destination with a range of different appeals: river scenery, hiking, birdlife and historic buildings. Which of these aspects shapes your travel decision depends on whether you would rather focus on places by the water, nature or architectural history.

River Scenery and Birdlife

Hawk Rock offers a view of the confluence of the Susquehanna River, the Juniata River and Sherman’s Creek. Duncannon is also part of the Kittatinny Ridge Flyway Global Important Bird Area. This brings together a specific viewpoint and a regional connection to birdlife as two distinct nature-related attractions: Hawk Rock is known for its river view, while the Important Bird Area adds birdlife to the nature experience.

Water and Trails in Town

On the Susquehanna, canoe and kayak launches are located at the intersection of Water Street and Ann Street, and at the intersection of Water Street and Broadway Avenue. Another launch is located at the mouth of Shermans Creek near the Shermans Creek Bridge. For planning purposes, the locations differ according to the waterway: two intersections on the Susquehanna and one spot at the mouth of Shermans Creek. Check access conditions before setting out, as they may change.

The Appalachian Trail runs right through Duncannon. For travel planning, this is a different point of reference from the canoe and kayak launches: the trail passes through town, while water activities start at the designated launch sites.

Local History in Specific Buildings

Clark’s Tavern is the oldest surviving building in Duncannon. During the American Civil War, it served as a local Union Army recruiting station. The building thus combines a special place in local history with a specific historical function.

The Old Sled Works Antique and Craft Market is located in the former Standard Novelty Works factory. The market includes a penny arcade, a soda fountain, a sled museum and a restored fire-observation tower. These different features bring together a market, a museum and other things to see in one place. Individual features may change, so check the current situation before visiting.

The Log Church at the end of Cemetery Street is also part of Duncannon’s architectural history: the original building was erected at this location in 1804. The Old Log Church in Duncannon is a replica built in 1970, showing what the old church looked like in 1804. The dates refer to different stages in this history: the original church building and the later replica.

Discover more destinations: Bloomfield

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