TRAVEL WRITING PROMPT
A Freshwater Estuary, Disk Golf, and Ringing Rocks
Social Distancing in Bucks County, Pennsylvania
Bucks County, Pennsylvania
For over 20 years, my home has been in or near Bucks County. The pandemic forced me to see more of it in a year than I had in the past 20. And…I love it more now than I ever have.
There are many things to see and do in Bucks County. I am going to highlight three parks: Neshaminy State Park, Tyler State Park, and Ringing Rocks Park. Being outdoors is a great socially distanced way to spend time exploring your city as a tourist. Masks are recommended in Pennsylvania parks because everyone is trying to get out of the house, which makes the parks a bit crowded.
Neshaminy State Park
This is the closest park to my house, which is about two miles away. I have gone there regularly over the years, but I think that I have grown to love all 339 of its acres even more over this past year. It was one of the only places I felt comfortable and safe.
The Neshaminy Creek and the Delaware River meet in an estuary in this park, which is about 116 miles from the Atlantic Ocean. When the tide is low, a long stretch of beach reveals itself for walkers to enjoy. This river’s tide fluctuates seven feet and can move in or out at a rate of one inch per minute. A bonus for walkers is that the Philadelphia skyline is visible from the shoreline.
My favorite part of this park is the many miles of trails. When the tide is low, I count the beach as a trail, as well. If the tide is in, my favorite trail is Beaver Lane. From this ridge, I can also enjoy a view of the river. There are four miles of trails and I can’t name one that I don’t like.
A playground, a pool, sand volleyball court, and many pavilions are available for times when social distancing isn’t an issue. Tables and charcoal grills are spread out around the park, as well as a marina where boats can launch.
I prefer to just walk and take in the awe of nature. This year, what stood out the most to me were the colors of fall, the snow-covered winter scenes, and the new flowers of Spring. I spent every season in this park during the pandemic.
Tyler State Park
I have visited Tyler State Park occasionally over the years because it is only nine miles from my home. I visited it twice this year because I enjoy all 1,711 acres of its towering trees, flowers, and scenic views. I especially enjoy the section of the Neshaminy Creek that’s located in the park.
People visit Tyler State Park to play disk golf. The 36 holes at this course are ranked near the top in the country. Opportunities to ice skate, sled, and cross country ski in the winter are also available. In other seasons, people enjoy horseback riding, fishing, canoeing, hiking, and biking.
The paths are surrounded by many mature trees. I get a majestic feeling standing on top of the ridge looking down like I am one of those tall trees. Taking it all in was a great break from the pressures of the pandemic.
Ringing Rocks
This park is 33 miles from my home, which explains why I haven’t visited it more often. Like many other people, I overlook some of the gems that are right in my own backyard. I visited this magical place for my first and second time this fall.
Part of this 123-acre park is a giant boulder field. But, these are no ordinary boulders. When these boulders are hit with a hammer they ding like a bell. I know, I didn’t believe it either…until I saw it for myself. Why they ding is a geological mystery, so I am not going to try to explain it. Some things are better just enjoyed.
If you go, be sure to bring your own hammer. And practice a little if you want to try to play anything quite as amazing as what Square Peg Round Hole played when they visited. Ringing rocks can be found in other places around the world, but mine are almost in my own backyard. If you ever get a chance, you should check them out.
The ringing rocks definitely steal the show at this park, which is named after them. But, you can also find Bucks County’s largest waterfall here. There was only a trickle of water when I was there in the fall, but the rock formations are worth the walk. It is awe-inspiring to think about how these natural wonders even exist.
Reflection
Immersing myself in nature helped me get through the pandemic in pretty good spirits. We should never underestimate the power of nature to heal our hearts when we need it most.
Resources
All three parks are located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. They range from 20 to 60 miles outside of Philadelphia. Some of the included information is credited to these sources. Other information can be found here, as well, for each of the parks.
Neshaminy State Park, Tyler State Park, Ringing Rocks Park
If you want to read more about adventuring, try these stories:
Thanks for reading! I hope everyone finds awe in every adventure!
Thank you to Glad Doggett for editing support through the World Traveler’s Blog’s new services for writers. It has been great working with her! Also, thank you to Anne Bonfert at World Traveler’s Blog for the prompt: #hometowntourist.
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