Enola Low-Grade Trail (formerly
Atglen-Susquehanna Trail, aka Solanco Trail)
Long stalled by turf wars and local opposition, plans to develop
a rail trail along the abandoned Enola Low Grade Line through
southern Lancaster County finally became a reality when Norfolk
Southern handed ownership of the corridor to the townships that it
passes through in 2008.
In the ensuing 2 years, these municipalities have opened most of
the line to the public and have made improvements, such as
installing trailheads (the one off Route 324 in Martic Township is
by far the best), grading the line to improve drainage and clear
washouts and laying sections of stone path.
Fortunately, Amtrak had agreed to construct a formal,
crushed-stone trail along the sections in Conestoga, Providence,
Eden, Bart and Sadsbury townships when it replaces the catenary
lines while Manor plans to construct its portion and restore the
Safe Harbor Trestle. Amtrak has also agreed to install kiosks
interpreting historical sites along the line, and at least some of
the townships have discussed plans to add other amenities,
including restrooms, benches and picnic pavilions. Martic and
Conestoga townships hope to restore the Martic Forge Trestle by
next year.
The Enola Low-Grade "Trail" is currently under way to convert to
a multi-use greenway where users are treated to magnificent views
of the Susquehanna River, deep forests, rolling hills and Plain
farms of southern Lancaster County in the near future. Once
completed, the trail could easily connect on its west and east ends
to the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail and the Chester
Valley Trail, respectively, making it an important link in a
greenway system that will eventually connect Harrisburg and
Philadelphia. The western portion, through Manor and Conestoga
townships, will also become part of the ambitious Susquehanna
Greenway system.
Happy Caching and Be Safe!
Team L.O.S.T.