Relaxing on a summer day at Lyman Run
- by Hannah Brock
- July 15, 2024
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As I followed the GPS through the hills of Potter County, I saw the sign for Lyman Run State Park creep into view.
I went along Lyman Run Road, I noticed the brown and gold signs that gave directions to those exploring any state park in PA. I saw signs for camping, ATV trails, as well as Lyman Run trail that took you through the park. I continued onward, noting these signs for future adventures.
I followed the road to an opening in the hills to a lake and a beach. I had made it to Lyman Run Reservoir and beach!
The parking lot was stationed between the beach and the playground. While it didn’t look big, it held maybe a dozen or so spaces, including handicapped parking.
Even on a weekday in mid-July, the beach was busy with splashes and children’s laughter. Parents and adults dotted the grassy slopes that bordered the sandcastle-speckled beach. Beyond, in the beautiful water, the merriment of children not confined to school rang out.
I walked down towards the beach looking for a place in the grass to place my things. I passed a busy concession stand which had a long list of items, ice cream included! I found a sunny patch of grass not far from the sand and placed my things down. I love the beach but the nice thing about PA was the access to grass.
I had my lunch, pet a puppy that wandered by with its person, and looked out at the scenery.
Grass, beach, and lake all encompassed by an ancient green canyon and a cloud-dotted sky.
It was a warm sunny day with a nice breeze, but the humidity that had plagued Dark Sky and PA Grand Canyon Landscape was blissfully absent.
I was told the Lyman Run Reservoir was one of the coldest, being fed by a mountain stream. As I dunked underneath its surface, I believed it. I then laid out and allowed the sun to warm me again.
I was able to exhale. Work, chores at home, the endless list of to-dos fell away on the shores of Lyman Run State Park.
