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.

Tuesday, December 27, 2016

Saturday February 4, 2017 - Lenhartsville Loop


Approx. 5 easy miles
Our “traditional” January hike, this year in February 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. We will pass the remains of the 19th century Maiden Creek Iron Furnace as well. Lunch later at C.J. Hummels.
MEET: 10:00 am, in the rear of the side parking lot of C.J. Hummel’s Restaurant, Rt. 143 in downtown Lenhartsville
GPS: 28 Willow Street, Lenhartsville 19534
LEADERS: Ed Glausman and Linda Reed - 610-921-3252 or 610-451-5380 on

the day of the hike 

Tuesday, December 20, 2016

Saturday January 28, 2017 - Winter Walk Along The Tulpehocken


4 easy miles

Walk along the Tully on a cold, crisp winter day, hopefully leaving boot-prints in the snow! Starting at the Berks Leisure area, we will follow the path past Gring’s Mill to the Red Bridge. Extreme weather cancels this hike. Optional lunch to follow.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Berks Leisure Parking lot

Directions: Berkshire Blvd past Shoppes at Wyomissing and Carmike Movies to right on Tulpehocken Road; make a left just past Country Meadows GPS ADDRESS: 1901 Tulpehocken Road, Wyomissing 19610


For more information and further directions, contact: 610-301-7271 

Thursday, December 15, 2016

Saturday January 21, 2017 - Nolde Forest


5 to 6 difficult miles

Check out Nolde Forest as Mark leads the way over the hill and through the woods. Lunch later is always an option.

Meeting: 9:30 am, Saw Mill parking lot, entrance on Rt. 625 just past Church Rd GPS ADDRESS: Approx. 2910 New Holland Road, Reading 19607

For more information or further directions, contact: 484-824-2740 

Monday, December 12, 2016

Saturday January 14, 2017 - Wyomissing Park / Shillington


Approx. 4 to 6 easy miles

Enjoy this picturesque park starting at Shillington/Wyomissing and hiking towards the Reading Museum. Among the highlights is a scenic trail that passes through evergreens, along with views of old stone homes. Lunch later of course!

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Wyomissing Park Soccer Field
Directions: Located near the intersection of Museum Road and Business Rt. 222 behind WAWA, access the park by turning off Rt. 222/Lancaster Avenue into the parking lot behind the WAWA (across the street from Gallen Insurance and Dunkin Donuts) GPS ADDRESS: 2005 Museum Road, Wyomissing 19610


For more information or further directions, contact: 610-914-1357 

Friday, December 9, 2016

Saturday January 7, 2017 - Thun Trail


Approx. 4 easy miles

We will hike a section of the Thun Trail that connects the towns of Gibraltar and Birdsboro. There will be plenty of views of the Schuylkill River, old neighborhoods, old stone homes and some wilderness along the river. This will be a one-way shuttle hike. Inclement weather cancels the hike. 


Meeting place: 9:30 am at parking lot of the Matthew Brooke building in Birdsboro 


Directions: From 422 eastbound take a right onto 345 south and continue for about one mile. The Matthew Brooke building is the first office building on the left after the bridge over the Schuylkill River. Take the next left onto Armorcast Road and another left into the building’s parking lot. GPS ADDRESS: 321 North Furnace Street, Birdsboro 19508


For more information or further directions, contact: 484-467-8976 

Monday, November 14, 2016

Saturday December 31, 2016 - Adamstown/ Stoudtburg Village Hike

5 to 6 easy miles


Our leaders will lead the Adamstown/Stoudtburg village hike around the village of Adamstown viewing factories, a library and old homes. We will then hike on a trail leading to Stoudtburg Village to look at the shops and visit the market (restrooms available). Lunch is an option later.

Meeting place: 10:00 am at the parking area off of Rt. 222, exit for Adamstown Rt. 272, on left side of Rt. 272 before Stolzfus Trailers and Campers with spring water place to the right

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

Monday, November 7, 2016

Saturday December 24, 2016 - Union Canal Towpath


5 to 6 easy miles

Escape from all that Christmas shopping and join us for a hike on the Union Canal Towpath. We will meet at the Berks Leisure Area and shuttle cars to the starting point at Stilling Basin Road. We will hike downstream along the beautiful Tulpehocken Creek. Dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Heavy, heavy snow cancels!

Meeting place: 10:00 am at Berks Leisure Area 

GPS: 1700 Tulpehocken Road, Reading 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-796-7602 

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Saturday December 17, 2016 - Middle Creek


7 – 8 moderate miles


This will be a scenic hike along some nice wooded trails looking for any snow geese or swans that may have arrived early. There will be hills and stones to contend with. Bring water and snacks. There are several places in the area for lunch later.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area Visitors Center 

Directions: from Rt. 272 South in Adamstown, take 897 N for 14 miles into the village of Kleinfeltersville, take first left after stop sign onto Hopeland Road then drive 2 miles to the Middle Creek Visitors Center.

GPS: 100 Museum Road, Newmanstown PA 17073; 40.270574, -76.247842 

For more information or further directions, contact: 717-949-2056 

Saturday, October 29, 2016

Saturday December 10, 2016 - Oley and Pike Township Roads


6.1 moderate miles

This road hike covers sections of Pike and Oley townships with no serious hills. Old mills and numerous historic homesteads will add to the pastoral scenery.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Weis Markets, Rt. 73 and Friedensburg Rd in Oley. There will be a 5 mile drive to the starting point.

GPS to meet: 4018 Friedensburg Road, Oley

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

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Saturday December 3, 2016 - Annual BCHC Christmas Party

Reservations required - see Member flyer for details on time and location.

Saturday, October 22, 2016

Saturday November 26, 2016 - Birdsboro Watershed Turkey Trot!


approx. 5 easy miles

Wear bright orange on this first Saturday of deer hunting season. We will begin at the small parking  lot at 2050 Hay Creek Road and walk on the trail along Hay Creek to the climbing wall before returning on the road to view the picturesque Stinson Run Reservoir. Look and listen for turkeys and point out the ones you hunt down. You may “bag” them and bring them home for dinner! Lunch later at a restaurant of your choice. Rain cancels this Hike!

Meeting place: 9:00 am, Livingood Park, off Rte 82, Elverson to carpool to the beginning of the hike where parking is limited, so please carpool 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-286-8913 

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Saturday November 19, 2016 - Pottstown and the Schuylkill River Trail


6 flat, ez miles

We will start by hiking along the Schuylkill River at the Pottstown Riverfront Park, then hike to the Pottsgrove Manor, followed by a stroll through Memorial Park, returning to Riverfront Park. While hiking in Pottstown we will be stopping at the historic sites along the way. From Riverfront Park we will pick up a section of the Schuylkill River Trail and hike west for about 2 miles through an industrial area. Lunch is optional after the hike.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Grosstown Road parking lot of the Schuylkill River Trail 

Directions: 422 East, past Klein’s bus stay straight onto Business 422 East/Stowe (do not take ramp for 422 bypass) which is Ben Franklin Hwy that becomes West High Street, go 2 miles make a right turn onto Grosstown Road, go past Continental Concrete on your right to parking lot on the right 

For more information and further directions, contact: 484-467-8976 

Saturday, October 15, 2016

Saturday November 12, 2016 - Mount Pisgah Plane and Jim Thorpe Hike


4+ difficult miles

It’s time again for our occasional insanity hike! For the adventurous, or the just plain foolish, we will climb the 2,322 foot, 29 degree Pisgah Plane of the former Switchback Gravity Railroad in old Mauch Chunk (aka Jim Thorpe), Carbon County. This long climb, though strenuous, abounds in history. The Switchback was Pennsylvania’s first railroad, and the second in the USA. We will see a spectacular view at the top, the original “Wagon Road,” and continue down Packer Hill into town for lunch. After lunch it’s up Broadway onto the former, now abandoned Bus Road, returning to the parking area. Rain does NOT cancel this hike, but snow and ice will.

Meeting place: 10:00 am at the parking area at the top of Hill Road in Jim Thorpe 

Directions: From Rt. 209 South in downtown Jim Thorpe, left onto Broadway, then next right turn onto Hill Road next to the Mauch Chunk Opera House which is the only right turn off Broadway, proceed to the parking area at the top of the hill.

for more information and further directions, contact: 610-921-3252 or cell 610-451-5380 

Monday, October 10, 2016

Saturday November 5, 2016 - Horse Shoe Trail Hike


5.7 moderate miles
Wearing of the orange is needed this time. We are reaching out there just a bit farther on the trail. The fall colors are gone and there is a nip in the air but the walk will be good. The start will be at the parking lot just south of Rt. 117 on Mt. Wilson Rd. on the west side of Mt Gretna to the parking lot at the end of Drescher Rd. This is a shuttle hike. Bring snacks/drinks. Maps handed out as needed.

1st Meeting place: 8:30 am, Ollie’s parking lot, Bsns Rts 222 & 724, Shillington, for anyone wanting to carpool to start.
2
nd Meeting place: 9:30 am, parking lot on Drescher Rd off Lawn Rd.

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-909-5018 or cj1sp@allstate.com 

Monday, September 26, 2016

Saturday October 29, 2016 - Welsh Mt. Preserve/Money Rocks



5 to 6 moderate miles

Enjoy an early winter walk in the Welsh Mountains. Hear the fallen leaves crunch as we walk through this former haunt of the notorious “Buzzard Gang.” We will also visit the new parking lot and the “Cockscomb Rocks” while avoiding the steepest trails and the worst of the stony areas. Lunch after is an option.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Dollar Store parking lot off of Rt. 10 in Morgantown

For more information or further directions, contact:  610-286-6886 

Monday, September 19, 2016

Saturday October 22, 2016 -Nolde Forest


5 to 6 difficult miles

Check out Nolde Forest as Mark leads the way over the hill and through the woods. Lunch later of course!
Meeting place: 9:30 am, Saw Mill parking lot, entrance on Rt. 625 

For more information or further directions, contact: 484-824-2740 

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

Saturday October 15, 2016 - South Reading Neversink Hike


5+ moderate to difficult miles 

Follow Doug from South Reading hiking up to Neversink Mountain for a loop hike on roads sidewalks and trails. Expect hills and some rocky terrain. Wear sturdy footwear and lunch later possibly at the Canal Street Pub. Heavy rain cancels!

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Canal Street Pub parking lot at Canal and South 6th Streets 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-750-4097 

Tuesday, September 6, 2016

Saturday October 8 - Blue Marsh in Autumn


7+ moderate miles

We will be hiking the northern tip of Blue Marsh, up and down through the meadows and forested trails and return on a flat trail paralleling Rt. 183. Hiking shoes are recommended. Optional lunch following. Rain cancels!

Meeting place: 9:30 am, North Church Road off Rte. 183, below Bernville; parking lot immediately on the left.

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-301-7271 

Sunday, August 28, 2016

Saturday October 1, 2016 - Port Clinton Fire Tower


Approx. 5 moderate miles

This hike will start out with one big hill climb to get there in the car and only one big hill climb on the hike! However, the leader will stop many times on the hiking hill. The hike is mostly on dirt roads near Hawk Mountain with lots of scenery and a great view. Bring water; lunch later maybe at Cracker Barrel.

Meeting place: 9:30 am , Redners, Rt. 61 North, Leesport to carpool to starting point
2
nd Meeting place: 10:00 am, Port Clinton Fire Tower Parking Lot

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

Monday, August 15, 2016

Saturday September 24, 2016 - Horseshoe Trail Series


6.5 miles

We keep going westward on the Horseshoe. Meeting 9:30 am at the parking lot on Rt 72 East of Mt. Gretna (small lot). This is a shuttle hike, moving vehicles to west end on Rt 117 parking lot, west of Mt. Gretna. Lunch afterward somewhere in Mt. Gretna. Please bring snacks/water.

Meeting place: 8:30 am at Ollie’s parking lot in Shillington (Bsns Rte 222 and 724) 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-909-5018 or cj1sp@allstate.com 

Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Saturday September 17, 2016 - Columbia Lancaster County


5 easy miles

We will be hiking and exploring Columbia, Lancaster County. We will be starting at the new Visitor’s Center, cross the old Columbia/Wrightsville Bridge and return. We will then hike around the town with a possible stop at the Watch and Clock Museum. (Admission charge is $9.00 adults, $8.00 seniors 65+) for those who are interested. Lunch stop later, of course!

Meeting place: 9:00 am, Ollie’s parking lot, Business Rts. 222 and 724, in Shillington 

For more information or further directions, contact: 484-824-2740 

Thursday, July 28, 2016

Saturday September 10, 2016 - Philadelphia History Hike and Train Ride


Approx. 5+ miles

Enjoy a train ride from the Norristown Elm Street Station into the “City of Brotherly Love” with an enjoyable walking tour of a city rich in American history. We’ll tour some interesting sites of Old City, Center City, and nearby neighborhoods in the morning, break for lunch near the famous Headhouse Square, and the hikers can then wander South Street to check out “Where all the Hippies Meet.”

COST: Senior Citizen rate is $1 (with proper ID) for the Regional Rail. Regular adult rate is $14 round trip (subject to change). Discounted advance tickets can be obtained for $10. Notify Leader by August 15th and tickets MUST be paid in advance since the trip will not be cancelled.

Meeting place: 7:00 am, Boscov’s East on Bus. Rt. 422 at far end of parking lot to car- pool to Norristown Elm St. Station to take the train. We will meet at 5:00 pm to return to Norristown, unless group agrees on another time. Directions to train station, Philadelphia maps, and train schedule will be provided on day of trip. 

To contact for train tickets if want to purchase in advance or more information, contact leader at 610-823-9023 

Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Saturday September 3, 2016 - Warwick County Park / Horseshoe Trail


5 -6 moderate miles

Let’s help Berks County with their “Iron Making Industry Celebration” this summer by doing a hike in the heart of the furnace area! We will also walk through the wildflower meadows to see them in late summer bloom. Expect some rocks and hills. Lunch after is an option.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, at the Clock Tower parking lot, behind Burger King, off of Rt. 10 in Morgantown to carpool

For more information and further directions, contact: 610-286-6886

Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Saturday August 27, 2016 - BCHC Annual Picnic!

See club flyer for details and reservation instructions

Friday, July 8, 2016

Saturday August 20, 2016 - Roland Park, Akron


5 easy miles

On this hot summer day, we will be starting at Roland Park in Akron, Lancaster County. We will be hiking on the park’s walking path, then the streets of Akron.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Ollie’s parking lot, intersection of Business Rts. 222 and 724 in Shillington.

For more information or further directions, contact: 484-824-2740 

Sunday, June 26, 2016

Sunday August 14, 2016 - Pennside Hike - with Ice Cream!!!!


2 to 4 easy miles

Enjoy a late summer walk around the Pennside area. Return for ice cream and burgers at Intel’s Drive-In.

Meeting place: 4:00 pm, Intel’s Pennside Drive In, 916 Carsonia Avenue, Pennside 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-914-1357 or 610-823-9023 

Saturday, June 25, 2016

Saturday August 13, 2016 - Leaser Lake, Lehigh County


Approx. 5 moderate miles

Hikers will be led on the hike along terrain that is mostly through fields and woodlands with a few short hills. Some areas along the creek banks may be muddy. There are rewarding, nice views of the lake, as well as some shady and open spots along the trail, so bring water and dress appropriately for August weather. A lunch stop at C.J. Hummels in Lenhartsville is optional.

1st Meeting place: 9:00 am, Redners, Rt. 61 North, Leesport to carpool to starting point 
2nd Meeting place: 9:45 am, Leaser Lake South ramp parking lot off Pleasure Ct. 

Directions: I-78 east, Lenhartsville exit 35. From exit ramp turn left onto RT. 143 and travel 7.8 miles, then turn left onto parking lot at Pleasure Ct. 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-796-7602 

Monday, June 20, 2016

Saturday August 6, 2016 - Governor Dick Park to Dinosaur Rock


6 - 7 moderate miles

Follow our leader as he hikes by the Clarence Schock Memorial Park in Mt. Gretna. Weather permitting, we will hike from Governor Dick Park to Dinosaur Rock and back to the parking area. There will be hills and stones to contend with. Bring water and personal snacks. There are several places in the area to stop for lunch later.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Environmental Center parking area 

GPS ADDRESS: 3283 Pinch Road, Lebanon, PA 

For more information and further directions, contact: 717-949-2056 

Thursday, June 16, 2016

Saturday July 30, 2016 - Nolde Forest


5 to 6 moderately strenuous, with several elevation changes of up to 400’

Escape July’s heat by hiking the woodland trails of Nolde Forest, located less than 5 miles from downtown Reading. Nolde Forest includes 665+ acres of woodland, 10+ miles of hiking trails and a Tudor style mansion built in the 1920’s. We will hike the following trails: Coffee Pot Hollow, Boulevard, Ridge, Spruce, Laurel Path and others. Lunch is optional after the hike.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Sawmill parking lot of Nolde Forest

Directions: Rt. 625, 1.2 miles south of Rt. 724 and on the right as you travel south. Look for the ‘Nolde Forest Sawmill Parking Lot’ sign


NOTE: Inclement Weather cancels this hike


For further information or directions, contact: 484-467-8976 

Friday, June 10, 2016

Saturday July 23, 2016 - Hopewell Village to St. Peter's Village


5 to 6 moderate miles

We will shuttle to the start of the hike in Hopewell Village parking lot, then hike the Horseshoe Trail and horses’ trail for 5 to 6 miles, depending on the heat/humidity index and the group’s vote, to St. Peter’s Village. Bring plenty of water, a snack and wear boots if we have rain on the days before this. We will need to also shuttle the hikers back to their cars at Hopewell after the hike, so please be prepared to shuttle other hikers in one direction or both. Some may wish to go back to Hopewell Village right after the hike and others after their lunch. Lunch afterwards if desired, the St. Peter’s Cafe Bakery has delightful homemade bread and desserts, sandwiches, salads and soups along with a variety of tempting non-alcoholic cold and hot drinks, with air conditioned indoor seating and lovely scenic seating on the deck outdoors under umbrellas. Not sure how many poles Jerry rates this place, but I give the highest rating of 5 poles! Unless they run out of apple cranberry walnut cinnamon bread!!

Meeting place: 9:00 am, St. Peter’s Village, parking lot across the street from St. Peters Café Bakery – 3441 St. Peter’s Road, St. Peter’s PA 19470


For more information and further directions, contact: 610-385-6862 (day before); donnaschopsy@yahoo.com 

Monday, June 6, 2016

Saturday July 16, 2016 - French Creek State Park


4 moderate miles

Follow Kathy on the white-blazed Turtle Creek Trail. There will be one big hill and lots of rocks! Lunch later at Exeter Restaurant.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Boscov’s East Parking lot, Business Rt. 422, Exeter Twp. 

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

Friday, June 3, 2016

Saturday July 9, 2016 - Antietam Lake


6.5 moderate to difficult miles

The Antietam Lake parking lots are closed this summer while improvements are being made. Let’s take a look at the progress. Starting at Egelman Park, we approach the lake area from the former fruit farm and walk above Angora Road where some of the work is being done. We will pass through the main parking lot and check on the former Nature Center. The return will take us up some steep hills, past the Vulture Rock and two stone cellars.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Egelman Park, Hill and Angora Roads 
GPS ADRESS: about 2100 Hill Road, Reading 

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

Monday, May 30, 2016

Saturday July 2, 2016 - Kaercher Creek Dam & Vicinity


Approx. 5 moderate miles

Walk some of the old trails in the now closed Kaercher Creek County Park, due to a disagreement between Berks County and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. We will see some of the graded, but never built Allentown and Auburn Railroad, as well as a nice blend of woods and roads. Lunch later of course!

Meeting place: 9:00 am at former boat launch area. Take Rte 61 N. to Hamburg. Turn right at yellow blinker onto Old Rte 22 (before I-78 interchange). Go approx. 1.5 mile to destination. If you reach Pond Drive you went a little too far. (This route avoids 4th Street road closure in Hamburg.)

GPS ADDRESS: 3501 Old U.S. 22, Hamburg

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-921-3252 or 610-451-5380 morning of the hike 

Friday, May 6, 2016

Saturday June 25, 2016 - West Reading & Wyomissing






5.5 easy miles

Check out the West Reading and Wyomissing area with the leaders. This hike will include streets, alleys and paths. We will see old buildings, new murals and a few gardens

Meeting place: 10:00 am, McDonald’s parking lot across from VF Outlet, Wyomissing; park at the far end of the lot near N. Park Road. 
For more information or directions: 610-678-5245 

Tuesday, May 3, 2016

Saturday June 18, 2016 - Delaware Water Gap/ Appalachian Trail


8.5 strenuous miles 

Once again, another challenging AT hike starting on the ridge at Fox Gap with some ups, rocks and views. Bring lunch/snacks and plenty of water for the lunch break before winding down a steep rocky descent to Water Gap. Hiking boots and poles are recommended. Optional dinner stop in Water Gap.

1st Meeting place: 8:00 am, lot behind McDonald’s to the left of Walmart, Bus Rt. 222, 5th Street Highway in Temple
2nd
 Meeting place: 9:30 am, Delaware Water Gap (call Ellen for directions)

NOTE: Rain or extreme heat cancels this hike!


For more information or further directions, contact: 610-301-7271 

Friday, April 29, 2016

Saturday June 11, 2016 - Nolde Forest


5 to 6 difficult miles

Check out Nolde Forest as this week's leader leads the way over the hill and through the woods. Lunch later of course!

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Saw Mill parking lot, entrance on Rt. 625 

For more information or further directions, contact: 484-824-2740 

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Saturday June 4, 2016 - Neversink Mountain


6.5 difficult miles

Spend Saturday on a 6.5 mile hike on Neversink Mountain. Maybe Mountain Laurel will still be in bloom. The hike begins through the Glen and continues to parts of East Neversink and North Neversink where Mountain Laurel are plentiful. A visit to the Witches Hat is on the way. The hike finishes with a scenic walk above the Schuylkill River. Expect 3 significant hill climbs. Remember to bring liquids.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, at the pond at the back of Forest Hills Memorial Park 

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

Monday, April 25, 2016

Saturday May 28, 2016 - Birdsboro Watershed Memorial Day Hike



5 to 6 easy miles

We will hike along Hay Creek and explore the climbing wall near the old quarry but will NOT descend the rocky trail to the quarry floor. Instead, we will retrace our steps and walk down to the creek crossing where hikers may ford the creek or cross it on a wire bridge. Bring water shoes or a towel to dry off wet feet. We will then walk down to the creek crossing at the rustic picnic park, again with the option of a creek crossing. Crossings are optional – as is lunch after the hike. Unless all hikers want to cross the creek, the group will not proceed to the other side. We will return by the road with an optional excursion to the Stinson Creek Reservoir. Bring snacks.

1st Meeting place: 9:00 am, Livingood Park parking lot on Rt. 82 between Rts. 401 and 23 in Elverson to carpool
2nd Meeting place
: 9:30 am, at the small parking lot across from the former White Bear Inn on the closed portion of Hay Creek Road.
GPS: 1050 Hay Creek Road, Birdsboro PA (not White Bear Inn)

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-286-8913 

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Saturday May 21, 2016 - Bear Hunting in Boyertown


5 to 6 easy to moderate miles 

Join us for bear hunting in Boyertown!!

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Weis parking lot in Oley 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-698-0504 

Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Saturday May 14, 2016 - Vinemont and Adamstown


Distance approx. 6 moderate miles

Our leader will lead the way on the trails and roads with some hills in the Vinemont and Adamstown areas.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Redners, Sinking Spring, Rt. 422 West, west side of pkg lot 

For more information or further directions, contact:610-777-4147; day of hike – 610-750-4097 

Thursday, April 7, 2016

Saturday May 7, 2016 - Nolde Forest


4 + moderate to challenging miles

Join our hiking leaders as they lead the way in this beautiful man-made forest. Bring water, good hiking shoes, a snack and a lot of laughter. Expect some hills.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Saw Mill parking lot, entrance on Rt. 625 

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

Sunday, April 3, 2016

Saturday April 30, 2016 - Rocky Ridge County Park, York


6.5 to 7 moderate miles

Plan to hike between 6.5 to 7 miles on Perimeter Trail. This will be a lovely walk through a conglomerate of rock outcrops, including observation decks with lovely views of the Susquehanna and Conestoga Valleys. Expect a few hills within a wooded area with some ups and downs. Join us later for a delicious lunch at Oregon Dairy Restaurant.

Meeting place: 9:00 am, Ollie’s parking lot, intersection of Business Rts 222 (Lancaster Avenue) and 724 in Shillington
Directions: From Rt. 30 take Mt Zion Road exit, turn right at ramp. Deininger Road will be on the right after a curve in the road (be careful!)
We will begin the hike at Hidden Laurel Picnic Area; drive time approx. 1 hour, total distance 49 miles
GPS address for Rocky Ridge: 3699 Deininger Road, York PA

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

Thursday, March 31, 2016

Saturday April 23, 2016 - Baptism Creek / French Creek

5 - 6 Moderate to difficult miles


Join our leader for a Spring walk through the Baptism Creek Natural Area. The many springs should be flowing and various wildflowers will be blooming. this will be a shuttle hike on woodland trails and back country roads. There will be some rocks and up-hills. Optional lunch afterwards.
Meeting place: 10:00 am on Shed Road parking lot off of Route 345 near Hopewell Furnace
For more information or further directions, contact: 610-286-6886




Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Saturday April 16, 2016 - Horse Shoe Trail - Going Westward!

7 - 8 Moderate to challenging miles


Westward ho! 
Meeting place: 9:00 am at parking lot on Route 322 (28th Division Highway/ Pumping Station Road) Directions from Reading - Take 222 South to Adamstown then travel Route 272 West to Ephrata. Turn right on Route 322 West at the Ephrata Cloister, pass through Brickervillw on Route 322 West, then over the PA Turnpike, parking lot is on right about 3 miles past Route 501 light.
For more information or further directions, contact: 610-909-5018 or cj1sp@allstate.com

Spring has sprung and the trail is waiting! We continue our trek on the Horse Shoe Trail. This is a shuttle hike. It will start out as a moderate hike and then turn easy. Hopefully Mother Nature will give us a great Spring day for a 7 -8 mile walk in the woods. Our goal is just outside of Mt. Gretna where we will have the opportunity to have a late lunch. Bring water and snacks.



Monday, March 28, 2016

Saturday April 9, 2016 - Middle Creek Hike



7 - 8 Moderate to challenging miles

This will be a scenic hike along some nice wooded trails looking for any snow geese that may be sticking around. There will be hills and stones to contend with on this adventure. Bring water and snacks. There are several areas to choose for lunch afterwards.


Meeting place: 10:00 am at the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area Visitors Center


Directions: From Route 272 South in Adamstown - Take 897 North for 14 minutes into the village of Kleinfeltersville, take the first left after the stop sign onto Hopeland Road, continue on for 2 miles to the Middle Creek Visitors Center which will be on the right.


For further information or directions, contact 717-949-2056

Sunday, March 27, 2016

Saturday April 2, 2016 - Thun Trail - Grosstown Road to Old Moyers Lumber

5 - 6 Mostly Flat Miles


Follow leader as he hikes along sections of an abandoned railroad surrounded by woods and fields. We will stop at Morlatton Village to see the oldest house in Berks County. We will also cross the Schuykill River on an old railroad bridge. As always, lunch optional after the hike!
Meeting place: 9:30 am at the parking lot of the former Moyer's Lumber YardGPS Address: 1336 East Main St., DouglassvilleNote: Inclement weather cancels the hikeFor further information or directions, contact: 484-467-8976
Directions: Lumberyard is located on route 724, just east of Birdsboro on the right side when traveling east, just beyond the intersection with Campbell Ford Road. From meeting place we will shuttle to the Grosstown Road trailhead.





Monday, February 15, 2016

Saturday March 26, 2016 - Hamburg Reservoir to Port Clinton


6+ mod.-strenuous miles

This will be a moderate to strenuous hike on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) with climbs, rocks and a switchback descent. We will stop on the ridge for an outstanding view of Hamburg and the area surrounding Cabela’s. Hiking boots/poles recommenced. Bring snack/lunch. Rain, snow, ice cancels.

Meeting place: 9:15 am, Port Clinton Playground

Directions: First left off Rt. 61 in Port Clinton when heading north. 


For more information or further directions contact:  610-775-2677 or Cell 610-301-7271 

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Sautrday March 19, 2016 - Valley Forge Park Hike


7 easy to moderate miles

Take a winter stroll through one of the nation’s best known winter camps. The hike starts at Memorial Chapel, stopping at Washington’s Headquarters and passing through one of the last covered bridges still in use in the area. This hike will be trails and pavements, and this area may be windy.

1st Meeting place: 8:30 am, Boscov’s East (east end of lot), Rt. 422 East to carpool
2nd Meeting place: 9:30 am, Valley Forge Memorial Chapel

For more information or further directions contact: 610-909-5018 or 610-223-6952 or cj1sp@allstate.com 

Saturday, February 6, 2016

Saturday March 12, 2016 - Crow's Nest Preserve (Part of Natural Lands Trust)


5+ mod. miles

We will hike the Deep Woods Trail and the Creek & Chief’s Grove Trail. If we are an ambitious group, we could do a shuttle hike and start the hike at Hopewell Village, then follow the Hopewell Trail to the end at Crow’s Nest. Decision will be made by those who arrive at Crow’s Nest at 9:30. Some areas along the French Creek are low lying and may be soggy. Heavy rain at 9:30 cancels.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Crow’s Nest visitor parking lot, 201 Piersol Rd., Elverson 

NOTE: If weather permits we can picnic outdoors on the Crow’s Nest Grounds (bring chair).
Otherwise we can eat indoors at the visitor’s center. 

Directions: From Rt. 345 at the entrance to Hopewell Village, turn in the opposite direction (east) off of Rt. 345. Take the second right (Piersol Rd). Parking lot is on the right, just before the visitor center.

For more information and further directions contact:  610-385-6862 (day before), or donnaschopsy@yahoo.com 

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Saturday March 5, 2016 - Pulpit Rock / Appalachian Trail


5 moderate to strenuous miles

We will take a winter hike to Pulpit Rock on the A.T. following the Furnace Run Road and a red blazed side trail, returning via the A.T. Should the trail be icy or the weather uncooperative, the hike may be modified into a road hike starting at the same location. Lunch after the hike at C.J. Hummel’s Restaurant on Rt. 143 in Lenhartsville.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Hamburg Reservoir parking area at the end of Reservoir Road, off of Old Rt. 22 about two miles east of Hamburg

For more information or further directions contact:  610-921-3252 or on morning of hike 610-451-5380 

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Saturday February 27, 2016 - Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area


7 to 8 moderate to challenging miles

This is a nice, wooded trail hike! Weather permitting, we will start by hiking up a steep fire road to Elders Run Trail. Following Elders Run Trail to Middle Creek Trail, then back to the parking area. There will be a long steep hill and stones to contend with. If there is much snow on the ground, we will find an alternate route. Bring water and snacks. There are several places in the area for lunch after the hike.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Middle Creek Visitors Center 

For more information and further directions contact: 717-949-2056 

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Saturday February 20, 2016 - Wyomissing Park / Shillington


approx. 4 to 6 easy miles

This is an easy hike starting at Shillington/Wyomissing towards the Reading Museum. This is a scenic trail as we pass through an evergreen trail with views of old stone homes. Lunch later of course!

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Wyomissing Park Soccer field

Directions: Located near the intersection of Museum Road and Business Rt. 222 behind the WAWA, access the park by turning off Rt. 222/Lancaster Avenue into the parking lot behind the WAWA (across the street from Gallen Insurance and Dunkin Donuts)


For more info ration and further directions contact:  610-914-1357 

Wednesday, January 6, 2016

Saturday February 13, 2016 - Coventry Woods


5.5 moderate to strenuous miles

Enjoy a late winter hike in this beautiful North Coventry Township Park. Expect some hills to keep warm. We will finish the hike on the expanded Love Valley Trail. Wonder what happens here??? Snowy or Icy roads will cancel this hike.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, main lot at Coventry Woods

Directions (1): Take Rt. 724 east from Birdsboro. About 3⁄4 mile past River Bridge Road (the road/bridge leading to Douglassville), turn right onto Unionville Road. “All Type Fence” is located here. Follow Unionville Road 2.1 miles past Temple Church and Shenkel Church. Turn right at St. Peter’s Road, then after 1⁄2 mile, turn left into Coventry Woods (Fernbrook Lane is to the right). Parking is just over the crest of the hill.


Directions (2): From Rt. 23, take St. Peter’s Road through St. Peter’s Village and continue 4 more miles on St. Peter’s Road. When you see Fernbrook Lane to the left, turn right into Coventry Woods.


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

Saturday, January 2, 2016

Saturday February 6, 2016 - Schuylkill River Trail Gibraltar


6 to 7 easy miles

The hike will start at the Angstadt Lane Trailhead behind Hafer Petroleum off of Rt. 724. We will hike to Gibraltar for a quick view of the Allegheny Aqueduct Historical Park and will also see the confluence of Allegheny Creek into the Schuylkill River. We will return by Old River Road, eventually returning to our starting point on the Schuylkill River Trail. Dress appropriately for the weather and carry water.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, 34 Angstadt Lane behind Hafer Petroleum off Rt. 724 

Directions: Angstadt Lane is near the intersection of Rt. 724 and I-176; look for the trailhead parking signs on Rt. 724 and drive back Angstadt Lane to the Schuylkill River Trail parking lot.
For more information and further directions contact: 610-796-7602