The White Rocks Purchase

The White Rocks area is portion of South Mountain just south of Boiling Springs.  The rocky outcroppings at the top of it provide a spectacular view of the Cumberland Valley looking north and unspoied forest land looking south.  Until 1993, the Appalachian Trail passed through this area.  Since then, the short but challenging White Rocks Trail passes through this area along the former route of the A.T.

The portion of White Rocks at the top of the mountain has been preserved for many years.  But the area around the White Rocks Trail had been under contract for residential development.  CVATC and our colleagues at other trail and environmental organizations opposed this plan, feeling that it should be preserved permanently as wilderness.  

CVATC played an important role in preserving the White Rocks area.  Our club, along with our colleagues at Mountain Club of Maryland and Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club, raised funds from our members for the initial title work and related costs.  Then we worked with Appalachian Trail Conservancy and the Central Pennsylvania Conservancy to apply for federal and state funds to permanently preserve the ​land.

Eventually, a deal was struck with the land owner and the funds were raised.  A total of $3.2 million to purchase an 850 area parcel was secured from the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund (Key 93), and local private contributions. The purchase was completed in 2011.  In 2013, the White Rocks land acquisition was recognized by the Keystone Recreation, Park & Conservation Fund as an “exemplary Keystone Fund project, offering exceptional value and lasting benefits to the communities it serves.” It was given the distinction of being named the best project in the 20 year history of the Keystone Fund.

HERE is a link to an article with more information on the White Rocks purchase.

Thanks to The Patriot-News, ATC and the Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau for pictures, materials and information.