Saturday January 31, 2015 - Gring's Mill Hike

Approx. 6 easy miles

Enjoy easy walking along the Tulpehocken Creek to Gring’s Mill and back. We will access the trail at the Stilling Basin Parking lot, which is the newly extended Union Canal trail at Blue Marsh. Dress appropriately for the weather.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Stilling Basin Parking lot

Directions: take Rt. 183 North from Reading, turn left at Bern Church onto Palisades Road, and a right turn to Stilling Basin; parking is on the right. 

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

Saturday January 24, 2015 - French Creek State Park Turtle Trail

3.6 moderate to strenuous miles

This is a repeat “woodsy” hike to get you off of the couch. As per the State Park Brochure, the Turtle Trail circles “through the western portion of the park offering a variety of easy hiking mixed with several uphill sections.” Hiking boots and poles are recommended. Lunch follows of course!! Deep snow, ice or a storm will cancel.
1st Meeting place: 10:00 am, Gibralter Road parking lot off of the Thun Trail at intersection of Rt. 724 and Gibralter Road
2nd Meeting place: 10:20 am, Firetower Road Parking Lot

For further information or directions, contact: 610-775-2677; Cell – 610-301-7271  

Saturday January 17, 2015 - Thun Trail

5 easy miles

Kathy always leads the best hikes and although she never indicated on the write-up how far this hike would be...rest assured if pressed, she would tell you it will be 5 miles! This will be a shuttle hike.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Brentwood Parking lot, off Rt. 10/Morgantown Road between Trooper Thorns and the former Angelica Park

for further information and directions, contact: 610-603-9461 

Saturday January 10, 2015 - Lenhartsville Loop

Approx. 5 moderate miles

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 afterwards.

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

For further information or directions, contact: 610-921-3252 or 610-451-5380 day of the hike; any questions can also be emailed to Ed at: ecg8@juno.com 

Saturday January 3, 2015 - Adamstown and Stoudtburg Village Hike

4-5 easy miles

Start out the New Year with a loop-hike along the roads, sidewalks and trails in and around Adamstown. We will also be visiting Stoudtburg Village to enjoy the shops and market there before we return to our starting point. Hopefully the holiday decorations will still be there for us to enjoy!

Meeting place: 10:00 am, parking lot at the intersection of Rts. 222 and 272 in Adamstown; take Rt. 222 S. towards Lancaster, then exit right onto Rt. 272 and the parking lot is to your left

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

Saturday December 27, 2015 - 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 

Saturday December 20, 2014 - Muhlenberg TWP / Laureldale Boro/ Bernhart's Dam Hike

Approx. 4 to 6 miles, depending on the weather
Hike on various terrain including roads, sidewalks and trails with some hills. We will see Bernhart’s Dam Park, owned by the City of Reading, and the Rosedale Grove Campgrounds and walk on some of the Rails to Trails in the area. Wearing orange to alert motorists is optional and so is lunch afterwards.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Dominic Manzella Memorial parking lot, above Manorcare, just off Elizabeth Avenue in Laureldale
Directions: Traveling north on Bus Rte. 222 (5th Street Hwy) in Muhlenberg Twp., turn right onto Elizabeth Avenue and follow to a driveway just above the 2100 block, up the hill on the left side
WARNING: Obey speed limits in Laureldale – they ticket! 

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

Saturday December 13, 2014 - Holly Jolly Longwood Gardens!

Have Holly Jolly views of beautiful Christmas décor at Longwood Gardens. Enjoy the entrancing music and views. Hikers are free to traverse the outdoor and indoor grounds as well as the interesting walkways. Enjoy lunch in the delicious cafeteria, restaurant, or pack a lunch. We will depart from the grounds for home between 6 to 7 pm, dependent on the group’s decision.

NOTE: Please notify Leader by November 29 if you plan to attend since the tickets are purchased ahead of time. Group tickets at group rate MUST BE PURCHASED AHEAD OF TIME and notification of attending members must be given to Longwood Gardens. Numbers can be adjusted 10 days prior to this event. Additional people without pre-notification may not receive the group discount on the day of hike.
COST: Group Rate (must have at least 15 people) – Adults $20.00, Seniors (62 or older): $18.00

Meeting place: 7:30 am at Boscov's East (east end of lot), Business Route 422 East, Exeter Twp. This will be a carpool event – do not drive directly to Longwood or you may not be included with the discounted tickets

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

Saturday December 6, 2014 - Annual BCHC Christmas Party and Hike

ANNUAL BCHC CHRISTMAS PARTY AND HIKE - See club flyer for details

Saturday November 29, 2014 - Spring Township Country Road Hike

5 + miles

This will be a circle hike on back farmland roads. Some hills of course and lunch later!

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Cacoosing Meadows Park, Reedy Road lot, Sinking Spring

For further information and directions, contact: 610-777-4147

Saturday November 22.2014 - Historic Oley Hike

Approx. 7 miles

This all road loop hike over flat to moderate terrain has a visit to the site of historic Oley Furnace as its objective. Little remains of the furnace except a monument to the past. Enjoy the rural beauty of the Oley countryside, along with historic homes and mills on the way.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Weis Market, Rt. 73 and Friedensburg Road in Oley

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

Saturday November 15, 2014 - Nolde Forest

Approx. 5 hilly miles

The leads say this will be a lovely, but possibly a cold hike. There will be many hills, so wear good shoes and bring water.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Saw Mill parking lot off of Rt. 625, 2 miles south of Rt. 724

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

Saturday November 8, 2014 - Evansburg State Park

Approx. 5 miles

Follow the leader as she leads this hike at Evansburg State Park in the Collegeville area. The hike will loop around Skippack Creek on a wooded trail of 5~ miles. There is one tricky hill and 2 short road sections.

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

2nd Meeting place: 9:45 am, Evansburg State Park, main parking area (play field on May Hall Road)

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

Saturday November 1, 2014 - Horseshoe Trail Hike

Approx. 6 moderate miles

Westward Hoe! We will be continuing our westward trek along the Horseshoe. The trail turns more to the woods, but the roads still are there for us to walk along. The fall colors may still be around but the color of SAFETY ORANGE WILL BE NEEDED by all. The hike will start at Trailside Rd. just off Wollups Hill Rd. and end at the Middle Creek Visitors Center. The trail is moderate at some places, but is easy along most sections. Please bring water and snacks. After the hike, eats are at the Kleinfeltersville Inn, just north of our trails end.

1st Meeting place: 9:00 am, parking lot off of Rt. 222 and Rt. 272 west end of Adamstown – Be Early Please!
2nd Meetinf place: 9:30 am at the hike starting point Trailside Road

NOTE: This is a Shuttle Hike.

for further information and directions, contact:610-909-5018 or “cj1sp@allstate.com”

Saturday October 25, 2014 - Buzzard's Trail in French Creek State Park

 Approx. 8 moderate to strenuous miles

Hike this little known trail in French Creek State park, which is hilly and rocky. This is part of the “burned-out” area. We will see if we can find the “old battered trash can”. Lunch later at the Italian place in Birdsboro.

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

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

Saturday October 18, 2014 - Jim Thorpe Downtown History Hike

2-4 easy miles

Follow the leader as you enjoy the fall in the beauty of downtown Jim Thorpe. You will also learn about the history of the town as well, as we stop by the Visitors Center, take a tour of the Asa Packer mansion and the legendary jail with the mysterious handprint, the local museum, and the Episcopal church of St Mark and St. John.

Meeting place: 9:00 am, parking lot to the left of Walmart, behind McDonald’s, Bus Rt. 222, 5th Street Hwy Temple

For further information and directions, contact: 610-488-6911. Day of hike Cell:610-301-8876

Saturday October 11, 2014 - Hibernia Hike

5-6 moderate miles

Visit historic Hibernia Park amid the beauty of fall. We will walk around the lake and along the banks of the Brandywine Creek to view the falling leaves and the last of the fall wildflowers. Lunch after is an option.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Dollar Store parking lot across from the Windmill Restaurant off of Rt. 10 in Morgantown

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

Saturday October 4, 2014 - Hamburg Reservoir/ Port Clinton

6+ miles, moderate to strenuous

This hike along the Appalachian Trail is rated moderate to strenuous due to climbs, rocks
and steep descents. Starting with uphill to ridge-line following a forested path to 2nd short ascent with an outstanding view of Hamburg/Cabela’s complex and hopefully vibrant fall
colors. We will stop for lunch on the trail before descending down the switchback to Port Clinton.
Meeting place: 9:00 am, Port Clinton Playground – 1st left off of Rt. 61 when entering Port Clinton

For further information and directions, contact:  610-775-2677 or 610-301-7271 (cell)

Saturday September 27, 2014 - Muhlenberg Township Hike

Approx. 5-6 miles

Follow the leader starting at the Laurel Run Recreational Park, hiking on various terrains. We will be on woodland trails, grass fields, macadam paths, and some roads. Expect a few hills as well. Wear good hiking boots or shoes, carry water and dress for the weather. Lunch stop after the hike is an option.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, parking area at Laurel Run Recreational Park, across from the park lodge

Directions: Take Rt. 12 to exit at River Road and travel north on River Road for approx. 1 mile to the park entrance on the right side, just before the stop sign at Leiscz’s Bridge Road

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

Saturday September 20, 2014 - Appalachian Trail / Side Trails

Approx. 6 to 7 miles

Come on out for a moderate early fall hike on the Blue Mountains near Shartlesville. The leaves may be starting to color. This is a circle hike with some possible good views of the valley below. There will be some ups and downs and some rocks. Lunch after the hike is an option.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, parking lot on Church Road off of Rt. 183 near Bernville to carpool

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

Saturday September 13, 2014 - Monocacy Hill Hike

MONOCACY HILL HIKE – approx. 4-5 Strenuous, Difficult Terrain
Enjoy the early fall in this lovely preserve. I think we will climb the hill this time to enjoy the view. Then we will loop around on some of the other trails. Meet at the Geiger Road parking lot.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Monocacy Hill Road parking lot on Geiger Road 

For further information and directions, contact: 610-369-1123

Saturday September 6, 2014 - Schuylkill River Rail Trail

Approx. 5 easy miles

We will hike the Schuylkill River Trail from Pottstown to Douglasville. Dress appropriately for the weather as there are sunny as well as shady spots along the trail. We will shuttle cars to Douglasville, then drive to the start of the hike at the Pottstown Visitor Center, located at Riverfront Park in Pottstown.

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

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

Saturday August 30, 2014 - Landingville Loop Trail

Approx. 5 miles

Richard will lead the way on the Bartram trail section of the Schuylkill River Trail to Landingville. We will circle the marsh, then return to our starting point.

Meeting place: 9:30 am, Redner’s Market, Rte. 61, Leesport 

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

Saturday August 23, 2014 - Heritage Rail Trail County Park

Approx. 8 flat, easy miles

This is a lovely scenic rail/trail that 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 bicycles, and visit historic Hanover Junction. A steam locomotive now runs a regular route beside the trail according to “Rails to Trails” magazine. If anyone is interested, bring your bike for a short ride on the trail afterwards. Pack a lunch to enjoy during the hike because that terrific deli on the trail is now closed.

MEET: 8:30 am, Ollie’s parking lot, intersection of Business Rts. 222 and 724, Lancaster Avenue in Shillington

For further information and directions, contact: 610-823-9023

Saturday August 16, 2014 - Monocacy Hill Hike

Approx. 3-5 strenuous miles, difficult terrain

Some may remember Fran’s previous “Ice Hike” way back on 2/24/07...this time no snow shoes or crampons will be required, as we check out the various trails locked away in this marvelous wooded setting on a mountain overlooking 422 East. You will be surprised by the amazing vista all the way to Reading, once on top. Don’t slow down because at the end we will all head down the road for pizza.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Monocacy Hill Road parking lot on Geiger Road

For further information and directions, contact: 610-796-7302

Saturday August 9, 2014 - Pottsville Murals and Historical Hike

Approx. 6 hilly miles

We will hike around this city of “seven hills” and coal history. We will be learning history, walking on sidewalks and some roads. Yes – it is Hilly! NO – We are NOT going to the Brewery! At the end of this approximate 6 mile hike, and for those who choose, we will go to eat at Grammie’s Diner; or those who choose to leave may return to their cars.

1st meeting place: 9:00 am, Redners Rte 61, Leesport

2nd meeting place: 9:45 am, Market Street, Pottsville 

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

Saturday August 2, 2014 - Berks Community Hiking Club Picnic

See your friends and enjoy a day of hiking, fun, and food at the annual Berks Community Hiking Club picnic. Reservations needed by July 19. See the club flyer for details on events and hike.

Saturday July 26, 2014 - Birdsboro Watershed

7 miles

This hike traverses both sides of the scenic Hay Creek, and travels up hills on each side of the creek past both reservoirs in the Birdsboro watershed. Expect hills to reach each reservoir. Bring enough water for the conditions.

Meeting place: 9:00 am, parking area on Hay Creek Road (former Route 82), north of Geigertown, .8
miles north of where Mullen Hollow Rd ends at Hay Creek Road

DIRECTIONS: From the traffic light in Gibraltar at the Turkey Hill, travel east on Route 724 for 1.2 miles. Take the first right turn at the sign for Hillcrest Hall Bingo, cross the railroad tracks, turn left on Old River Road, then almost immediately make a right onto Rock Hollow Road. Drive 2.8 miles on Rock Hollow road, cross Cocalico Road, then drive another 1.1 miles to the first stop sign at Hay Creek road. Turn left and drive .7 miles to the parking area.

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

Saturday July 19, 2014 - Ladew Topiary Gardens, Maryland

Harvey Ladew created 15 thematic garden rooms on 22 acres with over 100 topiaries, including a re-creation of a fox hunt. At your leisure, enjoy a self-guided walk in the gardens with the option of a docent tour of a circa 1747 farmhouse. A lunch menu is available at the café. Tickets can be purchased at the gardens at the following prices:
House, Gardens and Nature Walk – Adults $13; Senior 62+ $11; Gardens and Nature Walk – Adults $10; Senior 62+ $8
Visit website: www.ladewgardens.com for more information

NOTE: RAIN CANCELS

Meeting place: 8:45 am, Ollie’s parking lot, intersection of Business Rts. 222 and 724, Lancaster Avenue in Shillington; 1 1⁄2 hour drive to Ladew 

For further information and directions, contact: 610-775-2677 or Cell – 610-301-7271

Saturday July 12, 2014 - Stonehenge Gardens / The Lehigh & New England Rail Trail Tamaqua

3+ miles

We will begin with a visit to Stonehedge Gardens, a free non-profit public garden near Tamaqua Pa, where we can wander through the gardens, gift-shop, and gallery. Then we will hike the rail-trail for about 3 miles into Tamaqua for lunch at the Tamaqua Diner. We will then retrace our steps back to the cars. It may be hot, so bring a hat, sunscreen, water, and money for lunch. More information about the gardens and trail can be found on the internet.

Meeting place: 10:00 am, Redner’s, Rte. 61 in Leesport – We will carpool with as few cars as possible due to the distance and limited parking. Directions to Stonehedge will be provided.

For further information or directions, contact: 610-488-9269; Cell 717-376-5289

Saturday July 5, 2014 - Tucquan Glen

Approx. 4 miles, moderate to difficult

Enjoy a cool hike along a beautiful stream in a rocky gorge and back, possibly on a different trail. Optional lunch later.

Meeting place: 9:00 am, Ollie’s parking lot, intersection of Business Rts. 222 and 724, Lancaster Avenue in Shillington – Shuttle to area off of River Road near Holtwood Dam

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

Saturday June 28, 2014 - Little Lehigh Park, Allentown

4-5 miles easy stroll on walkways

Enjoy a summer stroll along the scenic Little Lehigh. This will be a leisurely walk along the river on walkways. Some beautiful scenery to boot! We'll also have a nice snack afterwards and go to an Allentown eatery for lunch. Wear sturdy sneakers and bring water. Hiking boots are optional. We'll carpool to get to the park.

Meeting place: 9:00 am at the old Ollie's parking lot behind the Super Walmart and across from the Tractor Supply off Route 222 North.

For further directions or information, contact: 610-779-2599 or 610-823-9023 on day of hike

Saturday June 21, 2014 - Neversink Gravity Trail

Approx. 41⁄2 miles

Hike the 4 1/1 mile Gravity Trail, recently opened care of the Berks Conservancy. This trail begins at Neversink Mountain on South18th Street at the water tower, ending at the parking lot for Antietam Lake Trails just off Angora Road at Hill Road. Our group will meet at Antietam Lake parking area and shuttle the group to Neversink. There will be historic signs along the route explaining about the Gravity Railroad.

Meeting place: 9:00 am, Angora Road and Hill Road parking area of Antietam Lake; please call leader if weather is questionable...Orange suggested as is a lunch stop after the hike at Klingers on Carsonia Avenue

For further directions or information, contact: 610-913-0284 or DOH 610-413-6281