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Pennsylvania Tour - FAQ
Note: We will send you detailed information about the tour in a
Pre-Departure Packet once you register.
What is the weather going to be like?
The average high temperature in Lancaster County is 81 degrees Fahrenheit in June. The average
low temperature is 58 degrees. So, the skating during the day is usually hot while the evenings are
pleasant. We generally receive very little rain during this tour.
Which time of the year is best to go there?
Anytime before or after the hot and muggy months of July and August are good times to visit
the Amish area of Pennsylvania. The best months are May, June, and September.
What is the best way to get to the tour and where do we meet?
You have a couple of options on where to meet and how to get to the Tour. You can fly to
Lancaster or one of the nearby cities of Harrisburg or Philadelphia. You can also take the train
from New York or Philadelphia (westward) or Pittsburgh or Harrisburg (eastward). If you fly or take
the train to Lancaster and arrive the morning of the tour, we will pick you up. You can also drive
directly to our host town of Ephrata. Most skaters in the past have either driven (if they are in
the vicinity) or flown to this tour.
What should I do if I want to extend my vacation in the area?
If you are flying or taking the train and will have an extra day before or after the tour, we
suggest you take a taxi directly to our tour hotel in Ephrata. Ephrata is nicer than Lancaster. If
you have a car and a few more days, there are a couple of activities in the area. Hershey has a
famous park for those in pursuit of a little Americana while Gettysburg is a fascinating place for
history buffs or those who slept through history class alike. Another option if you are coming from
out of town is to fly through Philadelphia, New York, or Washington and spend time in one of those
cities.
What ability level do I really need to be for this tour?
The Pennsylvania Amish Tours are short and on a weekend. Therefore, we get many people who are
relatively new to skating or new to Zephyr as this is a good introductory tour. However, you should
remember that Lancaster County is known not just for the Amish but for its rolling farmland.
Despite this, we rate the Tour for
Advanced Beginners
and up. In the past, we have had skaters of all ability levels; here is what happens. The first
day, those people comfortable braking cruise off and have a great time on the rolling roads. Those
who haven't yet mastered braking do the route fine but wished they had spent extra time practicing
at home. By the second day (after our second clinic) we have got the entire group comfortable on
the roads. By day three, we hear repeated verses of "I can't believe how much I have improved".
So what do we suggest?
If you don't like hills at all, pick a different tour location. If you have no problem
braking, this is a great location for you. If you are somewhere in between, this will stretch your
ability at first but reward you plentifully by tour's end.
For what type of people would you recommend this tour?
The mix of culture and skating on this tour is fantastic. If you have any interest in the
Amish or learning about a small part of America, it is a truly incredible (and sometimes
inspirational) tour. If you live in the Northeast or can't afford much vacation time, this is also
an excellent choice. Finally, if you are new to Zephyr and just want to check us out, you might
consider the Amish Tour.
Where can I find more information about the area?
See our
hotlinks
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