Saturday January 25, 2020 - Morlatton Village & Amity Gardens

4-5 easy to moderate miles

We will take a look at the Morlatton Village, an old Swedish settlement dating back to the early 1700’s, then we will cross into Amity Gardens to hike through the streets of more modern neighborhoods. Wear comfortable hiking shoes. Lunch after the hike is an option. Inclement weather cancels this hike.

Meeting place: 10:00 am at Morlatton Village Trailhead of the Schuylkill River 
GPS: 480 Old Philadelphia Pike, Douglassville PA

DIRECTIONS: from Reading, follow Rt. 422 East to Douglassville, then right onto River Bridge Road, then right onto Old Philadelphia Pike, then drive 150 yards to the trailhead parking lot on the left

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

Saturday January 18, 2020 - Norristown Farm Park

Approx. 5 miles

One of the most unique parks in the Pennsylvania State Park System, Norristown Farm Park is a working farm in continuous use since colonial times. We will see some of the 15 historic buildings, the earliest dated 1764, along with woods and fields plus miles of trails with links to the Schuylkill River and Perkiomen trails. Lunch later at Collegeville Diner. Check with the hike leaders if the weather looks iffy.

1ST Meeting place: 9:00 am at Boscov’s East, Bus. Rt. 422 East, Exeter to carpool
2nd Meeting place and GPS: 10:00 am, Norristown Farm Park, 2500 Upper Farm Rd, Norristown

Directions: After entering park, follow Upper Farm Road, pass Visitors Ctr, continue a short distance to lot #3 where rest rooms will be available. 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-763-8376 & 610-796-7602

Saturday January 11, 2020 - Middle Creek Hike

5 to 6 moderate to difficult miles

This will be a scenic hike along some nice wooded trails. 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 at Middle Creek Wildlife Management Visitors Center 
GPS: 100 Museum Road, Stevens

Directions: From Rt. 272 South in Adamstown, take Rt. 897 North 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.


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

Saturday January 4, 2020 - Lenhartsville Loop

Approx. 5 easy miles

Join in on our “traditional” 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 south of town. We will also pass the remains of the 19th century Maiden Creek Iron Furnace. Lunch afterwards at C. J. Hummel’s restaurant.

Meeting place: 10:00 am at the rear of the side parking lot of C.J. Hummel’s
GPS: 28 Willow Street, Rt. 143 in downtown Lenhartsville

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

Wednesday January 1, 2019 - New Years Day Hike - Historical Myerstown

Approx. 4.5 easy miles

We will hike historical areas of Myerstown, mostly on streets and sidewalks, where we will see the Isaac Meier House, a park, retirement homes (facilities available), a church, seminary and the Institute of American Deltiology. Deltiology is the study and collection of postcards. At the Institute we may meet Mr. Donald Brown who started this collection of over 1 million postcards, with a focus on North American postcards. We will also remember departed Club member Bob Morris who hiked with us last New Year.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, New Beginnings Church parking lot

Directions: New Beginnings Church is on the left side of Rt. 422 West and is also the entrance to Stone Ridge Retirement Community. After you go through the light at Dutchway Restaurant, continue past Country Fare and a small gas station. We will park in the lower lot of the church.

NOTE: Enjoy pork & sauerkraut or lunch around 1 pm at Dutchway Restaurant 

GPS: 430 East Lincoln Avenue, Myerstown

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

Saturday December 28, 2019 - Leesport / Schuylkill River Trail

Approx. 4 easy to mod miles

Check out the Leesport area and Schuylkill River rail-trail with our trail guide! We will meet at Redners in Leesport, then carpool to the trailhead. The hike will be on a mostly level rail-trail and roads. Length of hike will depend on the weather. We may also hike to Mohrsville if the weather is not too cold or damp.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Redners Market, Rt. 61 North, Leesport 

GPS: 5471 Pottsville Pike, Leesport

NOTE: Steady rain or snow cancels this hike

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

Saturday December 21, 2019 - Nolde Forest

Approx. 5 easy to moderate miles

The leaders will be leading a hike in Nolde on this first day of winter. This loop-hike will be on wide pathways with the option of doing only one loop for 2.5 miles if the group/leaders decides.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Sawmill parking lot off of Rt. 625, 2 miles south of Rt. 724 & Kenhorst Shopping Center

GPS: 2910 New Holland Road, Reading

For more information and further directions, contact:  610-334-8379 & 484-709-6727

Saturday December 14, 2019 - Birdsboro Watershed

5-6 miles + One Long Steep Hill!

We  will be led on this hike in and around the Birdsboro Watershed. The hike begins with a road walk close to 2 miles, then we will hike the Horseshoe Trail to enter the watershed. Local trails will take us to the scenic reservoir surrounded by pines. We will return via a closed section of the old Rt. 82.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, parking area on Hay Creek Road (former Rt. 82), north of Geigertown, .8 miles north of where Mullen Hollow Rd ends at Hay Creek Rd 

Directions: From the traffic light in Gibraltar at the Turkey Hill, travel east on Rt. 724, take the first right turn (about 1.2 miles), cross railroad tracks, turn left on Old River Rd, then immediately turn right onto Rock Hollow Rd. Drive 2.8 miles on Rock Hollow, cross Cocalico Rd, then drive 1.1 miles to the first stop sign at Hay Creek Rd. Turn left and drive .7 miles to the parking area.

GPS: 2 Elk Trail Lane, Birdsboro, then stay on Hay Creek Rd another .1 miles 
NOTE: Snowy or icy roads cancels this hike.

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

Saturday December 7, 2019 - Annual BCHC Christmas Party - See Club Newsletter for Details, reservations required

Christmas party hike will be a shuttle to Antietam Lake for enjoyable time and good appetite!🌲

Saturday November 30, 2019 - Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area

5-6 moderate to difficult miles

We will be led on a nice wooded trail hike in the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. Weather permitting, we will start by hiking up a steep fire road to the Elders Run Trail. We will then follow Elders Run Trail to the 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 to stop for lunch after the hike.

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

Directions: From 272 South, take Rt. 897 North for 14 miles to Kleinfeltersville, then take the first left after the stop sign onto Hopeland Rode, then travel 2 miles to the Visitors Center.

GPS: 100 Museum Road, Stevens 

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

Saturday November 23, 2019 - Warwick County Park

Approx. 6 mod miles

We will be hiking on trails in and around Warwick County Park where in the 18th and 19th centuries, Warwick’s woodlands provided much of the raw timber used to make charcoal for the region’s iron furnaces and forges. Remains of the iron industry can still be seen at various charcoal hearths along old cart paths.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, at the parking lot next to the Park office

GPS: 191 County Park Road, Pottstown

NOTE: Inclement weather will cancel the hike. Call leaders if any questions. 

For more information and further directions, contact: 610-698-4293 or 484-797-4234

Saturday November 16, 2019 - Hibernia County Park

5 to 6 moderate miles

This hike will be in Hibernia County Park which consists of over 900 acres (we will only be hiking 5 to 6 miles!) of trails, woodlands, meadows, open fields, pavilions, camping and picnic areas.

1st Meeting place: 9:00 am, Livingood Park in Elverson 
2nd Meeting place: 9:39 am, Hibernia Park

GPS: Hibernia Park, 1 Park Road, Coatesville 

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

Monday November 11, 2019 - Veteran's Day Hike with the Veterans

6 easy milesThis is an annual tradition where the Veterans and others walk through towns along the 422 highway. We will start at the Wernersville Fire Co. for a brief memorial service. We will then walk to Robesonia for brief services at the school and memorial park. There will be a break and snacks, with restroom facilities, in Robesonia. We will then continue on to the park in Womelsdorf for the final service. A free lunch will be available along the way at Johnny & Hons Tavern and at the Womelsdorf VFW. There will be a bus or cars to take you back if you need to stop walking. A bus will also be at the end to take you back to Wernersville.

Meeting place: 9:00 am, Wernersville Fire Co.
NOTE: If you want your car at the end of the hike, go to the Womelsdorf VFW by 8:30 for the bus to take you to the Wernersville Fire Co.

Directions: From Rt. 422, make a right onto Stitzer Ave.

GPS: 111 Stitzer Avenue, Wernersville

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

Saturday November 9, 2019 - Nolde Forest

5 to 6 moderate miles

Hike with our leader in this late fall hike to see the leaves turn. Hopefully it will still be fall weather and winter has not arrived. Snow Cancels!!

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Sawmill parking lot

Directions: Off of Rt. 625, 2 miles south of Rt. 724 & Kenhorst Shopping Center GPS: 2910 New Holland Road

For more information and further directions, contact:  484-256-7619 (the leader with a map!) or “fmalley@ptd.net”

Saturday November 2, 2019 - Schuylkill Canal Park

Approx. 6 moderate miles

This hike will leave from Lock 60 in Mont Clare PA and ascend to a trail overlooking the Schuylkill River. We will stop at a small county-run farm to look at the animals, then return on a trail along the river. We can also explore Lock 60 and the Lock House. There is a steep ascent and descent and it may be wet and muddy, so be prepared. Lunch afterwards will be in Phoenixville. Heavy rain will cancel.

1st Meeting place: 9:00 am, Boscov’s East (east end of lot), Rt. 422 East, Exeter Twp

2nd Meeting place: 10:00 am, Lock 60 in Mont Clare

Directions: From Rt. 29 coming from either Phoenixville or Mont Clare, turn onto Towpath Road, a one lane road between the river and the canal, and proceed to the parking lot at the end. Towpath Road is at the Mont Clare end of the Rt. 29 bridge. 

For more information and further directions, contact: 717-376-5289

Saturday October 26, 2019 - Governor Dick Park to Dinosaur Rock

6-7 moderate miles 

Follow the leader as he hikes by the Clarence Schock Memorial Park in Mt. Gretna. 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 snacks. There are several places in the area to stop for lunch later.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Environmental Center parking area 
GPS: 3283 Pinch Road, Lebanon, PA

For more information and further directions, contact: 610-507-5600 or 610-589-5575

Saturday October 19, 2019 - Pisgah Plane in Jim Thorpe

4.5 difficult and strenuous miles

It’s time once again for our annual “insanity” hike. For the adventurous or just plain foolish we will hike up the 29 degree, 2300 foot Pisgah Plane, a remnant of the Switchback Gravity Railroad built in 1827. There will be more history about this during the hike. Despite the hill, the view from the top is worth the climb. We will have lunch in downtown Mauch Chunk midway through the hike, returning to the cars on the now abandoned “bus road.”

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

Directions: From Rt. 209 in downtown Jim Thorpe, turn left onto Broadway, then make the first right hand turn onto Hill Road, next to the Mauch Chunk Opera House (14 W. Broadway) and proceed to parking area at top of hill. 

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

Saturday October 12, 2019 - French Creek / Hopewell Furnace

6 mod to difficult miles 

Join our group as we hike through some of the well-marked trails of the park’s 7,916 acres. Lunch after is always an option afterwards.

Meeting place:  9:30 am, Shed Road parking lot off of Rt. 345 near Hopewell Furnace 

For more information and further directions, contact: 860-861-5681

Saturday October 5, 2019 - Wyomissing Park

Approx. 4-5 easy to moderate miles

Hike with our leader for an early autumn hike through the beautiful Wyomissing Park.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, parking lot directly across from the YR Club 
GPS: 1722 S. Parkside Drive, Wyomissing

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-670-2412 or 610-750-2748

Saturday September 28, 2019 - Nolde Forest Hike

5-6 difficult miles

Re-visit Nolde Forest with Mark on this early autumn hike.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Sawmill parking lot, off of Rt. 625, 2 miles south of Rt. 724 GPS: 2910 New Holland Road

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

Saturday September 21, 2019 - Leesport River Trail

5-6 easy to moderate miles

Check out the Leesport area and river rail-trail with Doug. No hills, but bug spray is recommended. Lunch later at the Leesport Diner.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Redner’s Market, Rt. 61N in Leesport, then carpool about a mile to the rail-trail along the river

GPS: 5471 Pottsville Pike, Leesport

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

Saturday September 14, 2019 - Appalachian Trail Loop Hike

5-6 moderate miles

We will start at the Hamburg Reservoir parking lot and access the AT going south toward Port Clinton. We will then make a U-turn for the return using another trail which comes out just below the parking lot. It may still be hot, so bring any necessary items, especially water. Lunch after is always an option.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Hamburg Reservoir parking area

Directions: From Reading take Rt. 61N approx. 17 miles from Route 222N, bear right onto South Fourth St in Hamburg, go approx. 1 mile then turn right onto State Street, travel 2.2 miles then turn left onto Reservoir Road for 1.1 miles to the parking lot

GPS: 402-450 Reservoir Road, Lenhartsville

For more information and further directions, contact: 717-376-5289

Saturday September 7, 2019 - NYC / Brooklyn Williamsburg "Hipster Hike" Bus Trip

See emailed club flyer for details about bus trip. Advanced registration and bus trip payment is required for this event.

Saturday August 31, 2019 - Union Canal Trail Hike

4-5 easy miles

Hike with leader along the well maintained trail between the Blue Marsh Park Office and the restored locks on the extended Union Canal Trail. This section has been sown with wildflower seeds and is usually ablaze with early blooming plants. We will make a short stop at the Blue Marsh Museum along the way. There are some hills, but few rocks. Lunch after is an option.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, at the Blue Marsh Museum by the park office off of Palisade Road (follow the sign from Palisade Road to the park office)

For more information or further directions, contact: 484-252-9493

Saturday August 24, 2019 - Historic River Trail Hike / Schuylkill River Hike

Approx. 6 mod miles

Follow Kay as we hike the Historic River Trail alongside the Schuylkill River. We will hike to the Betzwood Picnic Area and return via the Schuylkill River Trail. If it rains the trail may be muddy, so dress appropriately for conditions.

1st Meeting place:9:15 am, Clock Tower parking lot in Morgantown (approx. 23 mile drive through Phoenixville to the 2nd Meet location)
2nd Meeting place: 10:00 am, Schuylkill River Trail parking lot at Pawlings Road and Station Avenue. There is a traffic light at this intersection.

GPS: approx. 1369 Pawlings Road, Phoenixville

Note: There will be a short shuttle to the start of the hike

For more information and further directions, contact:  610-796-7602 with questions or if planning to meet at Pawlings Road

Saturday August 17, 2019 - Mt Gretna Outdoor Art Show

6+ moderate to difficult miles

For anyone who wants to check out this very popular art and craft show we will hike there via the Lebanon Valley Rail-Trail and beat the heavy traffic. Instead of meeting at the “Root Beer Barrel” trailhead as we did in prior years, the hike has been shortened by meeting at the Alden Way trailhead. From there we will hike about two flat easy miles to the art show, where you are free to explore the art and craft show in beautiful Mt. Gretna. Art show hours are 9am to 6pm; admission is $12 per person, 11 and younger free. You can hike the 2 miles back to your car whenever you please. The hike is rated moderate to difficult given the time of year and the extra miles you will be walking at the art show, in addition to the 4 miles to and from the Alden Way trailhead. 

Note: bring a flashlight to walk back to your car if you will be staying in Mt. Gretna past sunset.

Meeting place: 9:00 am, at the Alden Way trailhead

Directions: 222 South, take PA Turnpike (I-76) west to exit #266 Lebanon- Lancaster. Left onto 72 North/Lebanon Road for 2 miles, exit right for Rt. 117 North, then make a left turn onto Rt. 117 North and immediate right turn to Alden Way trailhead

GPS: 1141 Alden Way, Lebanon, PA

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

Saturday August 10, 2019 - Horseshoe Trail - Schuylkill River Trail

6.5 mod miles

This shuttle hike begins on the Horseshoe Trail as it leaves French Creek State Park. We will enter the Birdsboro watershed and hike to Kulptown, then take the connector trail with a great view of Amity Township which leads us to the Schuylkill River Trail and the hike’s end.

Meeting place: 9:45 am, Schuylkill River Trailhead on Rt. 724 in Monocacy, behind the Fork and Ale Restaurant where the Schuylkill Trail crosses Rt. 724

Directions: go east on Rt. 724, just east of Center Road take the first left
GPS: Approx. 1273 East Main Street, Birdsboro

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

Saturday August 3, 2019 - Furnace Hills / Rannels - Kettle Run Nature Preserve

5 to 6 moderate miles

This will be a shuttle hike along some nice wooded trails with one big hill to go up and one really big hill to go down on the Horseshoe Trail leading to Pumping Station Road. We could see the Blue Heron Rookery. Bring water and snacks. There are several places in the area for lunch later.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Furnace Hills Pumping Station Trailhead off of Rt. 322, then we will shuttle some cars to an upper Horseshoe Trail lot
GPS: 80 Pumping Station Road, Lititz, PA

For more information or further directions: 717-949-2056, leave message on answering message

Saturday July 27, 2019 - Appalachian Trail Hike

7-8 strenuous miles

Join us on an “in-and-out” hike to the Pinnacle. We will hike from Reservoir Road to the Appalachian Trail. Get ready for hills and rocks, but the upside is that most of the hike is shaded.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Hamburg Reservoir Parking Lot

Directions: From Reading take Rt. 61N approx. 17 miles from Route 222N, bear right onto South Fourth St in Hamburg, go approx. 1 mile then turn right onto State Street, travel 2.2 miles then turn left onto Reservoir Road for 1.1 miles to the parking lot

GPS: 402-450 Reservoir Road, Lenhartsville PA

For more information or further directions, contact: Glenn  610-301-4342, email: ggeistsr@aol.com

RSVP

Saturday July 20, 2019 - Hiking Club Picnic

BERKS COMMUNITY HIKING CLUB ANNUAL PICNIC
See your friends and enjoy a day of hiking, fun and food! Advance reservations required. See the flyer emailed to members.

Saturday July 13, 2019 - Ontelaunee Lake Hike

4-5 moderate miles

Walk with the hike leader to check out the area surrounding Lake Ontelaunee, a 1,082 acre reservoir in Berks County and owned by the City of Reading. The lake was created in 1926 by the damming of Maiden Creek to extend and improve the water supply to Reading.

Meeting place: 9:00 am, Redner’s Market, Rt. 61 North in Leesport 
GPS: 5471 Pottsville Pike, Leesport

For more information and further directions, contact: 610-507-5600

Saturday July 6, 2019 - Leaser Lake Hike

Approx. 5 moderate miles

Join our group as we hike around the perimeter of Leaser Lake, just over the northern Berks line in Lehigh County. We will hike through terrain varying from open fields to deep woods and marshy areas. This area is especially suited to spotting many different bird and wildflower species. Lunch at CJ Hummels afterwards.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, parking lot at end of Pleasure Court

Directions: Take Rt. 143 north out of Lenhartsville. Drive about 8 miles, make a left turn onto Pleasure Court, just before the large stone church in Jacksonville (about a mile past Wanamaker’s General Store)
GPS: Pleasure Court, Kempton, PA

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

Saturday June 29, 2019 - Train Ride and Philadelphia Penn's Landing Tour

Approx. 6 mi

Enjoy a train ride from the Norristown Elm St. Station into the “City of Brotherly Love” with an
enjoyable walking tour of Penn’s Landing and Head House Square. Our walk will take us from the
Market East Train Station to Penn’s Landing to check out the various activities that the seaport has
to offer. Plenty of places to see and things to do such as the Independence Seaport Museum, USS Olympia, a submarine, and other activities. Be aware that some admission fees may be required and other things to see are free. Eateries are at some spots along Penn’s Landing and the nearby Head House Square area. Dress in comfortable clothes and very comfortable shoes for walking on pavements. Bring sunscreen since we’ll be by the water. This trip is rain or shine, so bring rain gear if the weather forecast is drops!

Cost: Round trip off-peak non-discounted Saturday fare for SEPTA train ride is $14.00 (price subject to change) if obtained day of trip. Seniors have a 50% discount on the Regional Rail price if Senior ID is presented per the SEPTA website. Contact leader for discount information on advance ticket sales.

Meeting place: 7:00 am, Boscov’s East Parking lot (east end of lot), Bus. Rt. 422 East, Exeter Twp, where we will car-pool to the Norristown Elm St Station to take the train. We will meet around 4:30 pm to take the train back to Norristown unless another time is decided by the group on the day of the trip; last train leaves Market East at 6:30 pm. Any changes in train schedule will be communicated the morning of the trip. Driving directions to the train station, maps of Philadelphia and the schedule of train departures and arrivals will be provided on the day of the trip.

For more information and further directions, contact: 610-823-9023 or 610-909-5018

Saturday June 22, 2019 - Horseshoe Trail Hike

7 easy miles on road with rolling hills

Saddle up those boots and join us on the trail. Starting point will be the parking lot at Sand Beach Rd and Swatara Rd. Much of this section is a road hike, please wear good shoes and bring an orange piece of clothing. We will shuttle vehicles to the end at Manada Bottom Rd and I-81 overpass.

1st Meeting place at 8:00 am: Redner’s, 4870 Penn Ave., Sinking Spring. Leaving at 8:10 sharp.

2nd Meeting place at 9:30 am: Parking lot at Sand Beach Road & Swatara Road. 

Directions: West on 422 to Hershey, turn right on Park Ave, which turns into Sand Beach Rd. Stay on Sand Beach Rd for about 2 miles and it will cross Swatara Rd. Parking is on the left of side of Sand Beach Rd. All needed vehicles will be moved to the finish point before the hike starts.

For more information or further directions, contact:  610-909-5018 or 610-823-9023 Please leave a message.

Saturday June 15, 2019 - French Creek State Park at Hopewell Furnace

6 moderate to strenuous miles

Enjoy a summer hike with Kathy as she leads the hike on the Lenape Trail.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

Directions: East on 422 to 345 south to Birdsboro. Continue on 345 and turn right on Mark Bird Lane
GPS: 2 Mark Bird Lane, Elverson

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

Saturday June 8, 2019 - Antietam Lake Hike

5.5 moderate/strenuous miles

This hike, beginning at Antietam Lake, uses several trails to climb to Kuechler’s Roost. The return takes us through the old fruit farm, across a lower level of the mountain, past the third stone cellar of the hike to the Nature Center. While this is not a particularly long hike, there will be much hill climbing

Meeting place: 9:30 am, the large Angora Road parking lot, near Hill Road, in sight of Antietam Lake.

Note: There are 2 intersections of Hill Road and Angora Road. Only one is in sight of Antietam Lake

GPS: (not always reliable): 300 Angora Road, Reading 

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

Saturday June 1, 2019 - Pottsville Murals Historic Hike

4 easy miles

January 1st Gerry did the Polar Bear Dip hike without the dip. Now, June 1st Gerry will do a Pottsville hike without the beer! We will see the old Court House, County Prison, historical monuments and enjoy the various murals and shops. We will see and hear history along the way. The hike is along streets and sidewalks with some small hills and stops to view the sites.

1st Meeting place: 9:30 am, Redners Market, 5471 Pottsville Pike (Rte 61) Leesport
2nd Meetin place: 10:00 am, Pottsville Co. Courthouse

Directions: North on 61 to Pottsville, turn left into center of town, turn right on 2nd Street and go north to the courthouse, park in rear or in front of prison. GPS: 401 N 2nd Street, Pottsville

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

Saturday May 25, 2019 - Ephrata Rail Trail / Grater Park Ephrata

Approx. 5 easy miles

Follow mark as we check out the Thomas P Grater Community Park and the Ephrata Rail Trail. Within the park is the Eicher Arts Center and Museum and the Ephrata Performing Arts Center, along with the neighboring Ephrata Rail Trail.

1st Meeting place: 9:00 am, Ollie’s parking lot, 2251 Lancaster Avenue, Shillington
2nd Meeting place: 9:30 am, Thomas P Grater Community Park

Directions: South on 222 to 322 West to Ephrata. Before crossing Cocalico Creek, turn left onto Cocalico Street and follow to Cloister Avenue.
GPS: Cloister Avenue between S. Oak and Cocalico Streets, Ephrata 

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

Saturday May 18, 2019 - French Creek State Park

4-5 easy/moderate to miles

Enjoy an erupting carpet of May apples while following the Turkey Trail which circles through the forest to and from Fire Tower Road. Expect some rocks and hills. Boots and poles are recommended. Lunch later of course!
1st Meeting place 9:30 am, Gibraltar parking lot adjacent to Cedar Hill Flowers
GPS: 3326 Main Street, Birdsboro
2 Meeting place: 9:45 am, Fire Tower Road parking lot

Directions: South on 345 from Birdsboro. Turn right on Geigertown Road, then left on Fire Tower Road.

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

Saturday May 11, 2019 - Twin Lakes Hike at French Creek State Park

5- 6 moderate/strenuous miles

We’ll hike on several trails, view 2 lakes and use new boardwalks and steps over the marshy areas by Hopewell Lake on this loop hike. Lunch later is an option.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, French Creek State Park by Hopewell Lake – West Boat Launch playground parking area
Directions: Go south on 345 from Birdsboro to the east entrance of the park. Bear right onto Park Road to Hopewell Lake West boat ramp parking lot, then continue beyond the restroom facilities to the playground area
Note: Heavy downpour at 9:30 may cancel this hike

For more information or further directions, contact:  484-797-4234 or 610-698-4293

Saturday May 4, 2019 - Mt Gretna Hike

Approx. 5 easy miles

Leader will trek an easy 5 or so mile hike in the town of Mt. Gretna. Let’s see what is blooming in the old Chautauqua. We will walk around the old and newer parts of Mt. Gretna, including roads and sidewalks, over hills and valleys. There are several places in the area for lunch.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, main parking lot by Gretna Emporium off of Rt. 117 
Directions: West on PA Turnpike to exit 266. South on 72 (Lebanon Road). Right on Cider Press Road (at Mt. Hope Mennonite Church), then right on Pinch Road to 117. Left on 117 and left on Carnegie.
GPS: 40.247940, -76.471342. One Carnegie Ave., Mt. Gretna

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

Saturday April 27, 2019 - Roads of Eastern & Western Amity Townships

5 mostly flat miles

We will use country roads of eastern Exeter and western Amity townships to hike from Daniel Boone Homestead to Exeter Meeting House, then turn around and hike back to the homestead. We will have an opportunity to view the stone meeting house built by the Quakers in the 18th century, along with the fields and farm buildings in the area. Lunch is optional after the hike.

Meeting place: 10:15 am, Daniel Boone Homestead Visitor Center parking lot 

Directions: 422 East to Baumstown. After passing 345 intersection, take next left onto Daniel Boone Road. Proceed one mile and take left onto Old Daniel Boone Road, then follow signs to the Visitors Center.
GPS: 400 Daniel Boone Road, BirdsboroNote: Inclement weather cancels the hike


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

Saturday April 20, 2019 - Furnace Hills Horseshoe Trail Hike

5-6 moderate miles

Enjoy spring as we follow Mark on this Easter Saturday hike.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, trailhead off of Rt. 322, Pumping Station Road DIRECTIONS: Take Rt. 322 West through Ephrata, then two miles past the intersection of Rts. 322 and 501, parking lot is on the right

For more information or further directions, contact:  610-589-5575; Cell 610-507-5600

Saturday April 13, 2019 - Baptism Creek Natural Area

4-5 moderate miles

Walk with the hike leader to see the early spring wildflowers carpeting the forest floor. We will hike from Hopewell Furnace to the historic Bethsada Meeting House, then circle back through Baptism Creek Area and return to the parking lot. There will be hills and PA rocks! Lunch after is an option.

Meeting place and directions: East on 422 to 345 south to Birdsboro. Continue on 345 and turn right on Mark Bird Lane
GPS: 2 Mark Bird Lane, Elverson

For more information and further directions, contact: 484-252-9493

Saturday April 6, 2019 -Siver Mine Park

Approx. 5 moderate miles

Join our group as we traverse along the beautiful Pequea Creek in Silver Mine Park, Lancaster County. This park was once home to a trailer park and campground and contains an authentic silver mine. We will start our hike along a hike/bike trail and continue through fields, woods, around a pond, along with a geology hike through the area of the gold mine.


Meeting place: 9:00 am, Ollie’s parking lot, 2251 Lancaster Avenue, Shillington Please notify the leader in advance if meeting at Silver Mine Park. GPS: approx. 99 Silver Mine Road, Conestoga, PA. Park in the small lot alongside Silver Mine Road – not the main entrance.

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

Saturday March 30, 219 - Wyomissing Park Hike

4 to 5 easy to moderate miles

Join our leader to look for signs of spring as we meander along the Wyomissing Creek and walk through the woods near the Highlands in Wyomissing.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, park in the lot along the 1600-1700 block of Parkside Drive South, across from the YR Club, Wyomissing.

for more information and further directions, please contact:  610-670-2412

Saturday March 23, 2019 - Furnace Creek Hike

3 to 4 moderate miles

Look for signs of early spring flowers at the Furnace Creek area near Robesonia. This is a wooded area near the Robesonia Furnace Historic district. This will be a shuttle hike. Lunch later at Ozgoods.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Conrad Weiser Middle School, 347 Penn Avenue, Robesonia 

For more information or further directions, please contact: 610-589-5575; Cell – 610-507-5600

Saturday March 16, 2019 - Pine Swamp hike

4 to 5 moderate miles

Discover the Pine Swamp Natural Area located in French Creek State Park. The hike will be on back roads, the Horseshoe Trail and other park trails. We will circle back to our cars. Lunch after is an option.

Meeting place: 10:00 am

Directions: 422 East to 345 to Birdsboro. Continue on 345 to French Creek S.P. entrance. Bear right on Park Rd to parking lot across from the Park office 

For more information or further directions, please contact: 484-252-9493

Saturday March 9, 2019 - Middle Creek Hike

6-7 moderate to difficult miles

We will be lead a 6-7 mile hike in the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. The tour road will be followed, so the first few miles will be in the sun. The second half of the hike will be on shaded unpaved road.

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

Directions: From 272 South, take 897 North for 14 miles to Kleinfeltersville, then first left after stop sign onto Hopeland Rd, then 2 miles to Visitors Center 

GPS: 100 Museum Road, Stevens

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

Saturday March 2, 2019 - Schuylkill River Trail Hike

6.5 moderate miles

This shuttle hike begins on the Horseshoe Trail as it leaves French Creek State Park. We will enter the Birdsboro Watershed and hike to Kulptown. Then the connector trail with a great view of Amity Township takes us to the Schuylkill River Trail and the hike’s end.

Meeting place: 9:45 am, Schuylkill River Trailhead on Rt. 724 in Monocacy, behind the Fork and Ale where the Schuylkill River Trail crosses Rt. 724

Directions: Eastbound on Rt. 724, just east of Center Rd, take the first left 

GPS: approximately 1273 East Main Street, Birdsboro

PLEASE NOTE: Snow, ice or rain cancels the hike 

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

Saturday February 23, 2019 - Warwick Furnace Hike

4-5 moderate miles

This will be a road hike in a very charming valley in Chester County, near Warwick Park. See the newly uncovered stonework of the 17th century furnace. Some hills, but very little traffic on these roads.


Meeting place: 9:30 am, Warwick Park to carpool as parking on site is very limited 

Directions: Take I-176 South to Morgantown, proceed East on Route 23 approximately 9 miles to Warwick village. Turn right on County Park Road (between houses in the village). Proceed 1/4 mile to park entrance on the left. Go to office, turn left into lower parking lot.

GPS: 191 County Park Road, Pottstown 

For more information or further directions, please contact: 484-948-5084

Saturday February 16, 2019 - Middle Creek Hike

5-6 moderate to difficult miles

We will be lead on this 5 to 6 mile hike in the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. Weather permitting, we will start by hiking up a steep fire road to Elders Run Trail. Elders Run Trail will be followed to the 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. This is a nice wooded trail hike. There are several places in the area to stop for lunch after the hike.


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

Directions: From 272 South, take 897 North for 14 miles to Kleinfeltersville, then first left after stop sign onto Hopeland Rd, then 2 miles to Visitors Center 

GPS: 100 Museum Road, Stevens

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

Saturday February 9, 2019 - Skinner's Loop at Blue Marsh Lake

5-6 moderate miles

This year we will hike Skinners Loop and not what I previously thought was Skinners Loop! Since this is winter, be prepared for seasonal weather. If there is snow on the ground we may need to make alternate plans; however, we will have the same meeting place.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Old Church Rd parking lot where we will carpool to a closer lot. 
Directions: Left from 183 North (Bernville Rd) approx. 6 miles from 222. NOTE: Snow, rain or extreme cold cancels the hike

For more information or further directions, contact: 717-376-5289