Whenever the day takes me to an area I don’t often frequent, I try to get a hike of some sort in.  On a recent trip through Western York County, I managed to get in a short hike.  

Bond Mountain and Bond Mountain Spring are located in West Newfield, along Bond Mountain Road (State Route 11).  There is a small dirt area on the edge of the roadway for parking.  Once parked, with the roadway to your back, to the right is the spring and water, free for the taking (read the sign first); off to the left is the trail.  For most of the hike, the trail is an old logging road.

For the most part, you will not see any trail markers until about half a mile in; then, yellow marks are painted on trees.  The lack of markers was not an issue for me as the road was easy to follow. 

As you reach a flat area before walking higher, a small pond emerges out of the woods to your right.  Despite the recent rains, this pond appeared to be less than full.  Standing on its edge, I can imagine what it looks like full, an image that brings a smile to my face. 

Almost across from the pond is the path to an eastern overlook.  A short walk on this side trail brings you to an overlook.  On a rainy day, along with the growth of the trees and branches, there wasn’t much of a view on my visit. However, the sounds of vehicle traffic below were easy to hear.  

Beyond the pond and side trail is the remains of the Bond Homestead, the home of Captain Thomas Bond and his three wives.  The stone foundation is all that remains.  Continuing on the trail takes you to the silver mine and a burial site.  

Not a bad spot for a walk in the woods on an overcast and rainy day.  Despite the wet leaves, wet rocks, and occasional muddy spots, I never fell, and I never fell. I was going to fall.  A trail I would visit again, given the opportunity.  

Bond Mountain 

2 miles, out and back. 

Highest point 921 feet.  

Ascent 472 feet