The water temperature never exceeds the low 60's. Wear chest waders with felt-soled boots. Be aware of tubers, canoeists and kayakers who also share the stream. The river has views of pastoral settings and farm fields. Beaver activity is obvious by the gnawed trees along the river.
Wildflowers are plentiful, including spring beauty, goldenrod, asters, and others.
President Lincoln traveled on it to deliver the Gettysburg Address. The rail line later served as a commuter train until the early 1970's when Hurricane Agnes destroyed the railroad. The trail visits quaint farm towns and passes by historic train stations at Monkton, Maryland and Hanover Junction, Pennsylvania. They also have flies available for purchase and provide the latest updates on river conditions. Food is available at several restaurants along York Road in the Hereford Area.