General Club Facts:

Berks County, Pennsylvania, United States
Membership in the BCHC is $10.00 per person per year in order to receive the quarterly newsletter. Further information on membership can be obtained when attending a scheduled hike. Other subgroups within the BCHC are the "Thursday Wanderers." Most hikes are followed by a dinner stop. We call ourselves "The Eating Club with a Hiking Disorder"! ****Hiking and Trail Guidelines: ** Be courteous & stay behind the leader unless directed otherwise.** Offer $.10/mile to driver when carpooling. * *In the event of inclement weather, the hike may be canceled.** Please leave your pets at home.**If unable to keep a club commitment, please find a replacement. * Wear blaze orange during hunting season (Sept 1 to last day of Feb). * Appropriate footwear and attire should match the type of hike.** If you leave the hike early, notify the hike leader or ask someone to do that for you.** Bring water and food as the hike description and weather demand.* * Hiking involves risk. Come out prepared and know your capabilities. Each hiker is responsible for their own safety and well-being.

Thursday, December 31, 2009

Saturday February 13, 2010 - Struble Trail & Dowlin Forge Park, Chester County

5-6 miles

Take a pleasant walk along the beautiful Brandywine Creek in Chester County on the Struble
Bike-Hike trail and see historic remnants of the Dowlin Forge in Uwchlan Township. Car pooling
is suggested because of limited parking. We’ll hike and then reflect on the sights seen during
lunch in the Chester County area.
Meeting place: 9:00 am, Boscov’s East parking lot (east end), Business Rt. 422 East, Exeter Twp.

For further information and directions, contact: 610-779-2599

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Saturday February 6, 2010 - Nolde Forest

5-6 miles

We will take the mile-long hill, then through Nolde from the back. Some roads, some trails.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Church Road parking lot

For further information and directions, contact: 610-775-7453

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Saturday January 30, 2010 - Shoemakersville Country Road Hike

5.2 miles

Hike on roads east of Shoey – count the bovines, good views of a country church, enjoy
the fields and beautiful countryside of Berks County.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, at Kuzan’s, north of traffic light on Rt. 61, park on left side of the store
For further information and directions, contact: 610-603-9461

Saturday January 23, 2010 - Wyomissing Creek

5 miles

A lovely, easy hike, weather permitting.
Meeting place: 10:00 am, Reading Museum parking lot
For further information and directions, contact: 610-777-4223

Monday, December 28, 2009

Saturday January 16, 2010 - Antietam Lake & Mt Penn

7 miles

We will hike along Antietam Lake and nearby sections of Mt. Penn. Follow
Antietam Creek as it feeds into the lake. See stone work that funnels the creek to
the lake. Visit 2 wine cellars (the wine is long gone!) and climb some hills.
There may be some soggy spots. There will also be 1.5 miles of road walking.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Angora Rd parking lot, next to Antietam Lake

For further information and directions, contact: 610-323-1703

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Saturday January 9, 2010 - Lenhartsville Loop

5miles


Our “traditional” early January hike along the Maiden Creek and country roads in the hills near
Lenhartsville. This is an easy road hike with some nice views of the Maiden Creek and the hill
country southeast of town. Eat at C.J. Hummel’s afterward.


Meeting place: 1:00 pm, in the rear of the side parking lot of C.J. Hummel’s Restaurant, Rt. 143 in
downtown Lenhartsville


For further information and directions, contacxt: 610-921-3252


Sunday, December 20, 2009

Saturday January 2,2010- Silver Mine Park, Lancaster County

5 miles of course!

Come and join Kathy Hengen and Kay Williams as they traverse trails along Pequea Creek. This park was once home to a trailer park and campground and contains a real silver mine. The walk will start along a hike/bike trail and continue thru fields, woods, around the pond and a geology walk thru the old mine area.

Meeting place: 9:00 am, Ollie’s parking lot (closed Giant and AC Moore); intersection of business Rts 222 & 724, Lancaster Avenue, Shillington

NOTE: One way drive time = 40 minutes, distance = 34 miles

For further information and directions, contact: 610-603-9461 and 610-796-7602




Monday, December 14, 2009

Saturday December 26, 2009 - Popular Acclaim Hike

?? miles

Walk off those Holiday “goodies” with a hike through the Wyomissing Parklands. Distance and exact route to be determined by the group.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Reading Museum Parking lot, Museum Road, West Reading

Leaders: Anyone who shows up that wants to lead, maybe you?

Friday, December 11, 2009

Saturday December 19, 2009 - Brandywine River Museum

Get in the holiday spirit with a visit to the Brandywine River Museum. Besides art work by various members of the Wyeth family, there will be an O-Guage railroad, a Victorian dollhouse and “critter” ornaments on holiday trees. Admission will range from $6 - $10 depending on the size of the group and age of participant. Weather permitting, we will do a short hike along the Brandywine River and of course, there will be a restaurant stop in the area.

Meeting place: : 9:00 am, Boscov’s East (east end of lot), Business Route 422 East, Exeter Twp.

For further information and directions, contact: 610-488-9269Post Options

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Saturday December 12, 2009 - Annual Christmas Party

See membership flyer for full details. As usual, a hike precedes the festivities!
Reservations Required

Friday, December 4, 2009

Saturday December 5, 2009 - New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show

See member flyer for full details

The Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club is planning this bus trip on behalf of the 50th anniversary year of the Rentschler Arboretum. Reservations, cancellations and payments are to be made through Boscov’s travel. Linda Enders-Roxberry has extended this invitation to BCHC, the Master Gardeners and others.
PRIOR RESERVATIONS REQUIRED.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Saturday December 5, 2009 - Guidin Hill

5 miles

Les will be leading this 5 mile hike on the hills separating St Lawrence and Pennside. Climb, traverse and descend two ridges with some steep grades. Visit an old quarry whose many leftover stones on the trails frequently make walking difficult. Guldin Hill affords a scenic view of Exeter Township. Other locations provide partially obstructed views of Mt Penn, Pennside and Stony Creek.

Meeting place: 9:45 am, Boscov’s East (east end of lot), business Route 422 East, Exeter Twp

For further information or directions, contact: 610-323-1703

Friday, November 20, 2009

Saturday November 28, 2009 - Angelica Park to Sheerlund Forest

5 plus miles, rain or shine or snow

Hike through Angelica Park to Sheerlund Forest-Nolde area. We will hike a new trail in Angelica Park and also roads leading to Sheerlund Forest area. We will encounter one long incline (also known as THE HILL !!). Lunch later.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Angelica parking lot off Rt. 10, Morgantown Road

For further information or directions, contact: 610-775-7453

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Saturday November 21, 2009 - Hills and Valley of Nolde Forest

This will be a great but hilly hike through the hills and valleys of Nolde forest. Bring good shoes, water and snacks. Contact hike leader if weather is questionable.

MEET: 10:00 am, at the Church Road parking lot

For further information and directions, contact: 610-777-4223

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Saturday November 14, 2009 - Maiden Creek/ Lake Ontelaunee (The OTHER Side)

4 miles

This hike will be mostly on access roads, trails and flat grassy areas by the water, then circle back along farm fields and through the woods. It will include a few easy climbs. Wear Orange! May be damp in some areas if the ground is not frozen.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Moselem Springs Inn (Intersection of Routes 222 & 662)

For further information and directions, contact: 610-562-0207

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Saturday November 7, 2009 - Hamburg Reservoir To Port Clinton

6+ miles moderate to strenuous with climbs, rocks and steep descent to Port Clinton

Come out for an adventure starting with an uphill climb to ridgeline, following forested path to another ascent and onto outstanding views of Hamburg and beyond (no leaves). Bring water, snacks and wear sturdy boots. Food afterwards; suggestions taken.

Meeting place: 9:15 am, at Port Clinton Playground, Off of Route 61 North - first left upon entering Port Clinton, then straight back to parking area.

For further information or directions, contact: 610-775-2677

Monday, September 28, 2009

Saturday October 31, 2009 - HALLOWEENIE HIKE EVENT (Members Only)


Follow Hike leaders on a hike in French Creek State Park followed by a picnic/roast and Halloween games led by our famous "game lady" Kathy, which will be held at Yurts #1 & #2. An open-fire roast will be prepared by Rich and Karen. Halloween costumes optional.

Meeting place: 1:00 pm, French Creek overflow parking lot for campground (on right past contact booth)

NOTE: Everyone who wishes to attend is asked to bring a chair, flashlight, own drink (non-
alcoholic as this is a State Park) and food to share. (Side dishes, salads & deserts needed more than snacks). Any food or supplies may be dropped off at the Yurts before you hike, however cars must return to the campground overflow parking lot.

DIRECTIONS: Rt. 724 to Birdsboro, turn right at light in Birdsboro, then next left. Make a right
onto Rt. 345. Continue on Rt. 345 until you see State Park sign at Park Road and turn right. Go until you see campground sign and turn right to the contact booth. Park in the overflow parking lot for campground, on right past contact booth.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Saturday October 24, 2009 - Lancaster County

approximately 6 miles

Hike on country roads in beautiful Lancaster County starting at St John’s Worship Center on Rt. 625. This is a loop hike with some hills on back roads with scenic views of the farmlands in the fall. Lunch later of course.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Kenhorst Shopping Center, at the intersection of Routes 625 and 724, in front of the Dollar Store.

For further directions and information, contact: 610-775-7453

Saturday October 17, 2009 - Delaware Water Gap


8.5 miles

This is a marvelous hike on the Appalachian Trail. Hike along top of ridge with some “ups” and great views – profile of Chief Tammany across the Delaware – then winding down a steep descent to Gap. Payoff – fall foliage and vistas. Recommend sturdy boots, water and we will stop on the trail for lunch.

Meeting place: 8:00 am, parking lot behind McDonald’s and left of Wal-Mart, Business Route 222, 5th Street Highway in Temple

For further directions or inofrmation, contact: 610-775-2677

Saturday October 10, 2009 - Mt Gretna/ Dinosaur Rocks



approximately 6 miles

Hike is in state game lands starting on Pinch Road and walking across ridge to "Dynosore" Rocks.
Moderate hills, off-road hiking in woodlands except for one long unshaded section.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Boyer’s IGA, Rts. 422 and 419, Womelsdorf

For further information or directions, contact: 610-589-5575

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Saturday October 3, 2009 - Bartram Trail

8 miles, level except for a very short incline to reach the trail

Come and enjoy the flat terrain of the Bartram Rail to Trail. It’s 4 miles out along the river and
back. Lunch at 3 C’s restaurant on Route 61 afterwards.

Meeting place: 9:00 am, at Port Clinton Playground, off of Route. 61 North – first left upon entering Port Clinton, then straight back to the parking lot.

For further information or directions, contact: 610-603-9461

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Saturday September 26,2009 - Cunningham Falls State Park

7.5 miles

Our hike will include several vistas, a large waterfall and a large geological rock formation. The terrain varies but is mostly hilly. If you follow the leader you can never go wrong. All Berks Community Hiking Club disclaimers, warnings and threats will apply!!

Meeting place: 8:30 am, at Ollie’s parking lot (closed Giant and A.C. Moore), at the intersection of Business Routes. 222 and 724, on Lancaster Ave in Shillington
Note: Drive time is approx 2 hours; 120 miles away; park is located near Rt. 15 just past Mount Saint Mary’s College

For further information and directions, contact: 610-678-5921

Friday, August 28, 2009

Saturday September 19, 2009 - Heritage Rail Trail County Park

8 miles, easy, flat trail

Established in 1992 and covering 176 acres, the Heritage Rail Trail County Park is 21 miles long and runs from the Mason Dixon line to York. We will be walking the 8 mile section from Brillheart Station to Hanover Junction Station. This is a beautiful trail to see as we walk through Howard Tunnel, view a picnic grove with giant metal sculptures of bikes, visit the historic Hanover Junction Station, ending with a restaurant stop at “Serenity Station” located on this trail.

Meeting place: 8:30 am, Ollie’s parking lot (closed Giant and A.C. Moore), intersection of Business Routes. 222 and 724, on Lancaster Ave in Shillington

For further information and directions, contact: 610-898-9988

Saturday September 12, 2009 - Warwick County Park

5 to 7.5 miles, depending on the heat and height of the French
Creek!

We will take the Horseshoe Trail east all the way thru Warwick Park, then walk about a
mile along roads to reach another entry point into the park and continue on to French Creek. We will then cross the creek if it is low enough, loop through the main park, take the Charcoal Trail and return via the Horseshoe Trail. Otherwise, we will re-enter the park via the Horseshoe Trail and return via the Charcoal Trail.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Warwick County Park, at County Park Road off Rt. 23 in Knauertown

For further information and directions, contact: 610-323-1703

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Saturday September 5, 2009 - Ride The Train To Lover's Lane

5 to 6 miles

Board the WK&S train at Kempton Station at 1:00 pm then ride to the end of the line at
Wanamaker Station. Now the hike begins back to the Kempton Station via Lover’s Lane, other roads, with a visit to the historic village of Trexler. It is Grandparents Day – bring your Grandpa or Grandma, or your Grandchildren (show them what a good hiker Grandpa/Ma is!). Tickets for the train are $4.00 each. Park in the uphill parking lot. Optional dinner after the hike at C.J. Hummel’s.

Meeting place:12:30 pm, at WK& S Railroad Station, Kempton, directions: from I-78, take Exit 35 Lenhartsville, to Route 143 North

For further information and directions, contact: 610-921-3252 or email: ecg8@juno.com

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Sunday August 30, 2009 - Pennside Ice Cream Hike

Approx 2-4 miles (easy)

Enjoy a late summer walk around the Pennside area. We will re-visit the re-located Fegley’s
restaurant. We will also walk the trail behind the Antietam Valley Park & Recreation Center.
All level streets except for a short, level trail section. Return for ice cream and burgers at
Coney Tony’s Pennside Drive In. (Update: The former Fegley's restaurant is no longer located in the area and has been relocated to Boyertown.)

Meeting place: 5:00 pm, Coney Tony’s Pennside Drive In, 900 block of Carsonia Ave., Pennside
Note: Please park on the grassy area to the right of the Drive-In

For further information and directions, contact: 610-898-9988 or 610-779-2599

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Saturday August 29, 2009 Hamburg – Port Clinton Loop Hike

7 miles

We will hike on parts of the A.T., the Bartram Trail, the bridge over the Schuylkill River and the Canal Path. Join us for t his fairly easy hike on trails and roads.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, at the Hamburg Playground/Pool, location: 3rd & Island Streets

For further information and directions, contact: 610-926-3415

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Saturday Evening August 22, 2009 -STARRY SUMMER NIGHTS PART II – NIGHT HIKE

Eat first at CJ Hummel’s on Rte 143 Lenhartsville then your choice of a night hike to Pulpit Rock
or ride with members of the Lehigh Valley Amateur Astronomical Society to look through their
telescopes. Last time we saw the Northern Lights! The decent is very steep and gravely so be
sure to wear boots or snug fitting shoes with good socks. If cloudy skies cancel, we’ll go to the
“Liars Lair Bed & Brunch” to play games. You can also spend the night. Bring a tent or camper
if you have one.

Meeting place: 7:07 pm, C.J. Hummel’s, Rte 143, Lenhartsville

For further information and directions, contact: 484-269-0852

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Saturday August 22, 2009 - LEHIGH GAP NATURE CENTER NEAR SLATINGTON

5 to 6 miles

Kay will lead this hike starting on the upper ridge trail with beautiful views of the Lehigh River. Then, return halfway along the same route to take the lower trail along the river to return to the Lehigh Gap Nature Center.
CAUTION: There is no shade on the upper trail, so bring appropriate protective equipment such
as a hat or umbrella and plenty of water.

Meeting place and directions: 9:00 am, parking lot behind McDonald’s and left of Wal-Mart, Bus Rt. 222, 5th St Hwy, Temple

For further information and directions, contact: 610-796-7602

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Saturday August 1, 2009 - Desilting Basin & Kelly's Lock Hike

4-5 miles, moderate circuitous hike

This is a moderate circuitous hike of 4 to 5 miles in the Muhlenberg Twp Park System. We will hike the old Schuylkill River de-silting basin in a wooded area on unmarked trails. Then divert off the trail to see Kelly’s Lock, returning to our starting point in the Laurel Run
Recreational Park. A restaurant stop is optional afterwards for lunch.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Laurel Run Recreational Parking area across from the ice skating lodge

Directions: Rt.12 (Warren St By-Pass) Exit at River Road then travel north on River Road for 1.6 miles to the park entrance on the right. Drive down the lane to the parking area

For further information or directions, contact: 610-929-9694

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Saturday July 25, 2009 - Horseshoe Trail Maintenance

We need all the help we can get and any tools. There will be hills so wear hiking boots, bring plenty of water and snacks.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Rt.625 – New Holland Road – 1 mile south of the traffic light in Knauers

For further information and directions, contact: 610-589-5575 or 610-373-6730

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Thursday July 23, 2009 - Second annual Larry Witman Miniature Golf Tournament

“Revolutionary” prizes will be awarded to lowest male and lowest female. Anyone with photos of Larry, please send them to Ron at: 334 Strausser Rd., Hamburg PA 19526 so he can enlarge them and frame them for the shrine.

Meeting place: 7:07 pm, Schell’s Miniature Golf, Bus Rt. 222 North, 5th St Hwy, Temple

For further information and directions, contact: 484-269-0852

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Saturday July 18, 2009 - State Gamelands #80 Hike

7.5 miles, Challenging, rock Scrambling

Richard will lead a hike on the Appalachian Trail from 501 to Round Head, down Shower’s Steps returning on the Kessel Trail to Pilger Ruh Spring , through Applebee campsite and Old Wagon Trail to Rt. 501.

First meeting place: 10:00 am, Church Road off of Rt. 183 at Blue Marsh
Second meeting place: 10:30 am, Rt. 501 and AT

For further information and directions, contact: 610-926-3415

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Saturday July 11, 2009 - Antietam Lake Loop

4 to 5 miles (depending on weather and group)

This hike has a little of everything: hills, rocks, pine forest, possible mud & stream crossing. Proper footwear and water required. Apair of clippers may come in handy.

Meeting place: 9:30 am at parking lot across from Antietam Lake at the bend in angora Road.

For further directions or information, contact: 610-375-3358

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Sunday July 5, 2009 - Best Ride in Berks

Celebrate your independence by doing the Best Ride in Berks! Join Ron on a 12.5 mile bike ride on quiet county roads. One big hill near the beginning, two small hills later, the rest is level. We'll meet at the Virginville Grange along route 143 next to the hotel. Park in the lot behind the hall. Bring your bicycle, helmet, water bottle, and money for the Kutztown Folk Festival later.

Meeting place: 9:00 am at the Virginville Grange as listed above

For directions or further information, contact: 484-269-0852

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Saturday July 4, 2009 - Adamstown & Stoudtburg Village Hike

Approximately 5 miles, mostly roads, few trails, flat, level hiking/ walking

Come and enjoy a hike through historical Adamstown and check out the old-fashioned European style village of Stoudtburg: a self-contained hamlet with shops on the ground floor and living quarters above.

Meeting place: 9:00 am, the parking lot at Routes 272 and 568

For directions or further information, contact: 717-484-4069

Saturday, June 13, 2009

Shoey Shuttle Hike - Saturday June 27, 2009

5 miles

This will be a road hike through the countryside of Perry Township. Some ups and downs and one BIG HILL down with a great view. We will end at Zion UCC Church and see the leader's tombstone!

Meeting Place: 10:00 am at Kuzan's Hardware Store on Route 61 North, North of Shoemakersville

For further information or directions, contact: 610-678-5245

Hike on the "Bareside" - Hamburg Reservoir to Port Clinton - Saturday June 20, 2009

Moderate to Strenuous - 6+ Miles

On the summer solstice there is an AT tradition that naked hikers can appear on the trail. Will we see any? We did 2 years ago! Come out for the adventure and a possible free show. Starting with uphill to the ridge line, following the forested path to another ascent and onto "outstanding views"! We will then descend down to Port Clinton. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and of course...wear clothes! Food afterwards- suggestions taken.

Meeting place: 9:15 am at the Port Clinton Playground off of Route 61 North. We will shuttle to Hamburg Reservoir.

For further information or directions, contact: 610-775-2677

Beltzville Dam Hike and Paddle - Saturday June 13, 2009

5 miles

John tried this hike last September 27, but a hurricane washed out that day's plans! This is a relatively flat hike on the densely wooded north side of the Beltzville Dam near Lehighton. After the hike we can paddle or relax on the south side of the lake. Bring "viddles" (lunch) and your canoe or kayak if desired. Bad weather AGAIN is not good!

First Meeting Place: 9:30 am at Redner's Market on Route 61 in Leesport

Second Meeting Place: 10:30 am at the Beltzville Dam Visitor's Center on Pohopco Drive

For further information or directions, contact: 610-678-5921

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Horseshoe Trail Maintenance - Saturday May 2, 2008

WE NEED ALL THE HELP WE CAN GET! Bring any tools that you have available!
There will be hills, so wear hiking boots and bring plenty of water and snacks. We hope to go out to eat afterwards. Remember, our assistance in trail maintenance helps all hikers to continue enjoyment of the trail!

Meeting Place: 9:30 am at Route 625 on New Holland Road 1 mile south of the traffic light in Knauers.

For further directions or information on helping out, contact our trail maintenance leaders at 610-373-6730 or 610-589-5575.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Blue Falls- Ontelaunee Road & Trail Hike - Saturday April 25, 2009

Approximately 6 miles

Check out the Ontelaunee area with Norm.

Meeting Place: 9:30 am at the Schuylkill Valley High School parking lot

For further directions or information, contact: 610-921-0473

Neversink Mountain - Saturday April 18, 2009

6 to 7 miles with a few hills

Explore the Neversink Mountain starting at the east side; some hills so wear good hiking boots. Bring water and snacks. Of course, we will go for lunch!

Meeting place: 10:00 am , inside Forest Hills Cemetery on Klapperthal Road, off East Neversink Road.

For further directions or information, contact: 610-777-4223

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Easter Sunday Sunrise Service Hike - Tribute to Paul Lehman - Sunday April 12,2009


4 miles

This was Paul's annual hike to the top of Mt. Penn to participate in the Easter Dawn Service sponsored by the Greater Reading Council of Churches. Moderate pace. Bring a flashlight and dress for the weather. (WARM clothes and sturdy shoes recommended) Optional Easter hat if preferred. Optional breakfast stop afterwards.

Note: Hike is in conjunction with Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club

Meeting Place: 5:30 am at the Former Police Academy Parking Lot in Reading's City Park

For further information and directions, contact: 610-678-5921

Monday, March 30, 2009

Mystery Easter Hike - Saturday April 11, 2009

EXACTLY 5 miles!

Kathy & Kay will lead a Mystery Easter Hike. Imagine Easter eggs, towers, views, farmlands, and animals. This is a walk of EXACTLY 5 miles over mostly roads with some hills.

Meeting Place: 9:00 am at Redner's Market on Route 61 North in Leesport

For further information and directions, contact: 610-603-9461 or 610-796-7602

Sunday, March 29, 2009

North Coventry Township - Saturday April 4, 2009

6 miles

Les is leading a road hike in Chester County's northern most township, just south of Pottstown. This is a hilly area with old homes, stone walls, bridges, and lots of scenery. This loop hike will skirt the southern fringe of Laurel Locks Farm and pass through the notorious Free Love Valley of the 1830's, 1840's and 1850's.

First Meeting Place: 9:30 am at Boscov's East Parking Lot (at east end of lot) on Business Route 422 East in Exeter Township

Second Meeting Place: 9:50 am at the Wawa on Route 422 East in Douglasville. From this location it will be an approximate 3 mile drive to the start of the hike.

For directions and further information, contact: 610-323-1703

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Blue Marsh Lake - Saturday March 28, 2009

7 miles

Hike around Blue Marsh starting at the Church Road parking lot up to Bernville - Robie Road. We will cross the bridge and go down the other side back to the starting point.

Meeting place: 9:30 am at Blue Marsh on Church Road parking lot just off of Route 183

For further information and directions, contact: 610-926-3415

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Neversink Mountain - Saturday March 21, 2009

3 to 6 miles

This will be a hike around the mountain. Weather and trail conditions will determine the distance of the hike. There will be a stop at the "Witch's Hat" for a snack. Please come prepared with boots, food, and water.

Meeting place: 1100 am at 10th and South Streets in Reading

For further inforamtion and directions, contact: 610-374-2394

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

NEWLY POSTED Hike - Park and Music in Allentown: Trexler Park - SUNDAY March 15, 2009

1.4 miles

Wander through Allentown Art Museum (free), then enjoy the 3:00 pm Allentown Symphony Orchestra concert (guitar soloist). Tickets for hikers are $18.00 (this includes a 10% discount). Look for fellow hiker Mercedes Jurkiewicz in the cello section, and Ron Kieffer might be your usher! After the concert (5:00pm), we'll go to the Allentown Brew Works for something to eat.

Meeting place: 12:12 pm at CJ Hummel's (Route 143 in Lenhartsville, park at rear of side parking lot) or 1:01 pm at Trexler Park in Allentown at the Springhouse Road parking lot.

For further details and information, contact: 484-515-8001

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Earl Township Road Hike - Saturday March 14, 2009

6 miles

A loop hike in the Boyertown watershed. Six miles with an optional seventh mile. Spectacular views of Montgomery County on a clear day and hills to keep you warm on a cold day!

Meeting place: 10:00 am at the rear of Trout Run Lake on Powder Mill Hollow Road.

Directions: From Routes 562 qnd 662 at Yellow House - Drive east on Rt 562 toward Boyertown. After 1.5 miles, turn left onto Powder Mill Hollow Rd. Go about 1.5 miles up the hill and Trout Run Lake will be seen to the left. A parking area is behind the lake about a half mile past Hemlock Rd. Immediately prior to encountering Powder Mill Hollow Rd. on Rt 562 east, there is a large white building containing a post office and bar/restaurant on the left. Prepare to turn left soon after seeing this landmark!

For further directions and information, contact: 610-323-1703

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Horseshoe Trail - Saturday March 7, 2009

8 miles, strenuous

This is a shuttle hike leaving from Pumping Station Road and ending at Route 72. This hike is rated as strenuous by the hike leader and includes some changes in elevation. Wear hiking boots and bring water. Optional lunch stop afterwards at Klinefeltersville Hotel.

Meeting place: 9:00 am at Pumping Station road (intersects Route 322 two miles west of Brickerville)

For further directions and information, contact: 610-373-6730

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Conewago Trail - Saturday February 28, 2009

exactly 5.5 miles!

Easy winter walking along the Conewago Creek in Lancaster County. Hike to see where it meets up with the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail and the Lebanon County line. After the trek, eat at a local grill and tavern. (home of DEE-LIC-IOUS rhino fries and chicken tortellini salad)

Meeting place: 9:00 am at Ollie's parking lot at the intersection of Lancaster Ave/ Route 222 & 724 in Shillington

For further directions and information, contact: 610-796-7602

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Maiden Creek/ Lake Ontelaunee - Saturday February 21, 2009

5 to 6 miles

Follow trails and an old railroad line alongside the Maiden Creek to Lake Ontelaunee, then circling back. The hike includes a few hills. Some areas are a little overgrown and may be muddy. Wear orange. Optional lunch stop at McArdles. (A no smoking facility)

Meeting Place: 9:30 am at Moselem Springs Inn, at the intersection of Routes 222 & 662

For further directions and information, contact: 610-562-0207

Sunday, January 25, 2009

Wyomissing Park/ Shillington - Saturday February 14, 2008

Approx 4 to 6 miles

Easy flat trail and road walk starting at Shillington/ Wyomissing towards the Reading Museum. Lunch afterwards of course!

Meeting place: 10:00 am at Wyomissing Park Soccerfield

For further information or directions: Located near the intersection of Museum Road & Business Route 222; access the park by turning off Route 222/ Lancaste Ave. into the parking lots between the WAWA and National Penn Bank (across the street from Gallen Insurance & Dunkin Donuts) continue a short distance on this road towards the WAWA.
For further information, contact 610-988-9988

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Crystal Cave Loop Hike - Saturday February 7, 2009

4.6 miles

It's the snow season and what better time to hike on Snowdrift Road!!!!
We'll leave from the Crystal Cave parking lot and hike through the farm country.

Meeting place: 9:30 am at the Crystal Cave parking lot, call if you need directions to Crystal Cave

For further information and directions, call 610-603-9461

Monday, January 12, 2009

Green Lane Reservoir - Saturday January 31, 2009

4 to 5 miles

We'll hike in a different area than last time. moderate hiking with some hills.

Meeting place: 10:00 am at King's IGA in Oley, Route 73

For further inofrmation and directions, contact: 610-367-7060

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Nolde Forest/ Oregon road - Saturday January 24, 2009

5 to 6 miles

Includes wooded trails and roads and one long hill. Eat at a local restaurant afterwards. Dress warm, wear hiking boots and bring water.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Church Road parking lot

For further information and directions, contact: 610-775-7453

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Historic Spangsville and Pleasantville - Saturday January 17, 2009

7 miles

A flat road hike in the eastern part of Oley Township. We will be led by a local historian who will provide commentary on the historic structures and lands we will be passing.

Meeting place: 10:00 am at the Salem (Oley UCC) Church on Covered Bridge Road.
Covered Bridge Road can be accessed by the following ways:
  1. From Route 73, about 2.5 miles east of the Routes 73 and 662 intersection near Oley, by turning south at the traffic light in Pleasantville.
  2. From Yellow House, the intersection of Routes 562 and 662, by heading north on Route 662 for about a quater of a mile, then bearing right at the "V", leaving Route 662 for Covered Bridge Road.
  3. Take Oley Turnpike Road from Jacksonwald to its end, then turning left onto Covered Bridge Road.
For further information or directions, contact: 610-370-9948