Pequea Creek Tubing Adventure at Sickman's Mill
When the unrelenting summer heat has you searching for fun ways to cool off, look no further than a tubing adventure along the meandering Pequea Creek. The go-to place for a mix of gentle floating coupled with a few river rapids is Sickman's Mill Outfitters. When you stay with us at After Eight Bed and Breakfast, make the scenic 17-mile trek to southern Lancaster County where you'll pick up your inflatable tube and begin your journey downstream.
When you arrive at Sickman's Mill, you'll be immediately struck by the property's historical presence. The mill itself dates back to the mid-1700s. In its early days it was used as a distillery, and later a saw mill and grist mill. Today, it serves as a wedding and event center, in addition to being home to seasonal tubing adventures.
Tubing at Sickman's Mill Outfitters is a great way to spend a summer day. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, tubing is open seven days a week, with late-night floats available Wednesdays. No reservations are necessary for regular tubing, unless you want to book a four-hour guided trip, which includes stops at swimming holes and jumping rocks, as well as a packed lunch to be enjoyed along the banks of the creek.
Your roundtrip journey will take roughly 1-2 hours, depending on creek levels. As you drift along the Pequea Creek, a tributary of the Susquehanna River, soak up the sun and take in the breathtaking views of lush greenery, towering trees and serene wildlife. The calm and tranquil atmosphere provides a welcome respite and an up-close opportunity to connect with nature. Occasionally, you'll hit small rapids that provide a boost of adrenaline. When you reach the end of your tubing journey a few miles downstream from the launch, a shuttle awaits to bring you back to Sickman's Mill.
After your tubing escapade, continue the fun at Jimmy's Place, Sickman's Mill's riverside hangout spot for brews, spirits and live music. Then pop into Mama T's for a bite to eat, where the menu includes homemade sourdough pizza, sandwiches, salads and appetizers. Outside alcohol is not permitted at Sickman's Mill, but you can grab a can (or two) of Jimmy Juice craft cocktail to enjoy as you float down the creek.
In mid-September, Sickman's Mill will host its fourth annual Pequea Creek Races. This is a creative weekend-long event where teams get boat-building materials on Friday, construct their boats on Saturday and race down the Pequea Creek on Sunday to crown a champion. Other prizes are awarded as well for design, creativity, beauty and humor. There's a healthy amount trash-talking, but all in the name of fun, friendly competition that raises money for Music for Everyone.
Whether you're seeking a relaxing day on the water or a thrilling ride through some minor rapids, Sickman's Mill has both and more. Time will slip away as you savor every moment of your water adventure. It's the perfect addition to your itinerary during your summertime stay at our historic inn.
