March is a strange month in Lancaster County. You know beautiful, sunny weather is just around the corner, but it’s not quite here yet. During March, we’re teased by some really nice days, only to be disappointed when we wake up to find snow blanketing the ground.
I dipped into my treasure trove of photos from last March trying to find some sign of warmth. All I could find are reminders that last March was particularly cold. It just seemed as if Mother Nature couldn’t shake off the cold winter we had endured (remember the Polar Vortex?). This photo, taken at Ephrata Township Community Park, provides testament to the fact that winter was in no hurry to leave.
The park is located on Fulton Street, just south of Ephrata. It was once the site of a bustling sand quarry, which ceased operations in 1977. I always remember seeing equipment parked there and receiving a stern warning that the quarry wasn’t safe. In 2002, Ephrata Township purchased the first parcel of land, adding more acreage in 2005, making an astounding 50.8 acres of land available for public use.
I shot the photo seen here last March, just before sunset. The park’s two-acre pond sits along its western edge (along Fulton Street). It’s the best seat in the house around sunset. In addition to the pond, there is a 7.5-acre lake hidden from view in the back of the park. Both bodies of water are used for fishing. There are a number of user-friendly trails that meander through the wooded areas of the park and wrap around both the lake and pond. The park also boasts very nice pavilions, restrooms, ball fields and one of the best playgrounds around.
I could go on and on, but just look at that view. As I’m typing this, my wife offers her endorsement, commenting, “That’s my favorite park.”
Hours: Dawn to dusk. Controlled/leashed dogs are welcome. Information: Ephratatownship.org.
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