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.

Monday, December 26, 2022

Saturday February 4, 2023 - Green Lane Park / Perkiomen Trail

4.5 miles

1st Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Weis Market in Oley to carpool

Directions: Weis parking lot at intersection of Rte 73 and Friedensburg Road, Oley GPS: 61 Kings Plaza, Oley

2nd Meeting place: 10:10 a.m. at Green Lane Park

GPS: 1960 Snyder Rd., Green Lane (parking lot near the office) [8GP7+3P]

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


Monday, December 19, 2022

Saturday January 28, 2023 - Clarence Schock Environmental Center

Approx. 5.5 moderate miles

It will be an in-and-out hike using Trail 5 and the Horse-Shoe Trail, moderate hills, minimum rocks. There are Job Johnnies at both the beginning and midway through the hike. There is no hunting in this park.
NOTE: Hike will be cancelled if snow or temperatures below 20 degrees occur.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at the Environmental Center

Directions: Rte 422 west to 501 south in Myerstown. Rte 419 south in Schaefferstown. Rte 72 south in Quentin and 117 north shortly afterwards (Note: you will be merging on Rte. 322/72 entering on the left and the exit is on the right very soon.) After 2.2 miles turn left on Pinch Road (across from the Pizzeria immediately after the pull-in parking section of Mt Gretna.), then 1 mile to Environmental Center entrance on the left.

GPS: 3283 Pinch Road, Lebanon [40 14 14.72N, -76 27 31.22W]

For more information or further directions, contact: 484-665-0196 or C: 610-603-6876 with questions


Monday, December 12, 2022

Saturday January 21, 2023 - Ephrata Rail-Trail

3-5 easy miles, in-and-out

Trail is usually snow-cleared and open all the way to Millway Road. Parking lot is usually clear too. Bring Yaktrax or ice cleats just in case? Lunch at Gus’s Restaurant, 3687 Rothsville Road, Ephrata. Call if weather looks iffy.

Meeting place: 10 AM. at Parkview Heights parking lot.

Directions: Take Rte 272 south to Ephrata. Turn left at Wendy’s, (traffic light) onto Parkview Hgts Rd. Go about two blocks (notice yellow rail-trail signs) and at stop sign, turn left into parking lot. 

GPS: Very close, use 1098 Steinmetz Road, Ephrata.

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


Monday, December 5, 2022

Saturday January 14, 2023 - Monocacy Hill Recreation Area

5 moderately difficult miles (with easy alternative)

Join our group as we hike once again through some of the well-marked trails of Monocacy Hill’s 428 acres. We will go down to the creek with the charming waterfall and up to the peak with beautiful views of the valley. We may also go by landmarks like the never-used railroad trestle and the homestead site of Sallie Shirey. Hiking boots and poles recommended as the climb is a bit rocky. For those who don’t wish to climb to the peak, an alternative path that meets up on the other side is a possibility. Lunch at Vincenzo’s afterwards, 1333 Old Swede Rd, Douglassville, 610-689-8000 (https://www.vincenzosristorante.org)

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. in Geiger Rd parking lot. Parking in lot is limited – you may need to park on the road leading to the lot or around the corner – but always on the side next to the recreation area. Do not park across the street where there are residents’ houses.

Directions: From 422 coming from Reading use the jughandle to turn left onto Limekiln Rd. Turn right onto Monocacy Hill Rd, right again onto Geiger Rd and right into the parking lot.

GPS: 42 Geiger Rd, Douglassville PA 19518 [40.280955, -75.754068] 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-468-5039


Monday, November 28, 2022

Saturday January 7, 2023 - Blue Marsh

An easy to moderate 4 mile loop 

We will hike the Dog Lake and Switchback Trails.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at Stilling Basin - lower lot near the basin

Directions From Route 183 north, turn left at the CVS onto W. Leesport Road. Turn right onto County Welfare Road. At stop sign, turn left onto Palisades Road, then right into the Stilling Basin and go to lower lot.

For more information or further directions, contact: cell phone 484-557-7854


Thursday, November 17, 2022

Saturday December 31, 2022 - The Locks and Bridges of Leesport

 4.5 easy to moderate miles

A new history hike around Leesport and vicinity. We will see locks 36, 37, and 38 , the now not-so-new river bridge over the Schuylkill river, the lock tender's house, and other local sights. The hike is on both trails and roads, with only one significant hill. Significant rain, snow or ice cancels this hike.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at the parking lot behind the Schuylkill Valley Community Library, 1310 Washington Rd. ( West ) Leesport Pa.

Directions: From Reading, take Rte 61 north to Leesport, make a left at Wall St. ( Turkey Hill on southwest corner ). Cross the river and make an immediate left at end of bridge onto S. Schuylkill Ave. At the “T,” turn left onto Main St. and make an immediate right onto Washington St. (soon changes name to Washington Rd.). Look for the library about a tenth of a mile on your right.

GPS: 1310 Washington Rd. (West) Leesport


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


Thursday, November 10, 2022

Saturday December 24, 2022 - Hamburg Reservoir / Ha-Ha Trail

6 - 6.5 moderate to strenuous miles

This hike takes the blue blaze trail toward the AT coming from Eckville but before reaching it we divert onto the Ha-Ha trail which runs 1.2 miles before connecting to the AT coming from Port Clinton. We then take the AT briefly before connecting to a lower trail that will return us to the parking lot. Wonder if it is called Ha-Ha because of the faint blazes that mark its path? There will be a steep climb and some trails likely in poor condition. Snowy or icy roads, or heavy rain cancels this hike.

Meeting place: Hamburg Reservoir Parking, 400 Reservoir Rd, Hamburg

Directions: From Rte 61, take 4th St into Hamburg. At State St (Old US 22), turn right. When you reach the Edenburg area, look for St Paul's Lutheran Church on the right. Half a block past the church, turn left onto Reservoir Rd and take it across Mountain Rd to the end. 

GPS: 400 Reservoir Road, Hamburg

For more information  and further directions, contact: 610-850-1855


Friday, November 4, 2022

Saturday December 17, 2022 - Annual BCHC Christmas Party and Hike

 See club flyer for details

Reservations for party due by December 3, 2022

Friday, October 28, 2022

Saturday December 10, 2022 - Hike Around Womelsdorf

 4 miles easy to moderate

We will hike through historic areas and into Conrad Weiser Park. We’ll be walking on streets, sidewalks and grass (snow?). There is only one hill near the beginning.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at parking lot off Rte 419

Directions: Take 422 west to Womelsdorf. Turn left at traffic light at Rte 419, then right into large parking lot between road and McDonald’s.

GPS: Approx. 3400 Conrad Weiser Parkway, Womelsdorf

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


Friday, October 21, 2022

Saturday December 3, 2022 - Monacacy Hill / Creek and Lower Loop Trails

 approximately 4 easy miles

The lot is small, but street parking is allowed. Rain cancels.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at Monocacy Hill parking lot

Directions: From 422 coming from Reading use the jughandle to turn left onto Limekiln Rd. Turn right onto Monocacy Hill Rd, right again onto Geiger Rd and right into the parking lot. 

GPS: 54 Geiger Road, Douglassville, PA 19518

For more information and further directions, contact: 732-539-3257 call or text anytime


Friday, October 14, 2022

Saturday November 26, 2022 - Woods Around Robesonia

 4+ moderate miles

We will carpool a short distance to the hike start. Possible lunch stop afterwards.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Conrad Weiser Middle School and carpool.

Directions: From Sinking Spring, head west on Rte 422 through Wernersville. Just before you get to Robesonia, turn right onto Conrad Weiser School Road, then left into parking lot. 

GPS: 347 Penn Avenue, Robesonia

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


Friday, October 7, 2022

Saturday November 19, 2022 - Roads of Amityville

 5 miles - easy to moderate

In the beginning, we will hike the paved paths of Amity Township Community Park, then branch into the scenic roads of Amityville and eventually make our way back to the Amity Township Community Park. Wear comfortable hiking shoes. Bring water. NOTE: Inclement weather cancels the hike.

Meeting place: 9:30am at the Amity Township Community Park parking lot.

Directions: From Reading take US-422 east to Amity Twp. (about 15 miles). Turn left onto the PA-662/Old Swede Rd. After 3 miles, make a slight left onto Weavertown Rd. After 3/10 mile you will pass the St Paul’s UCC. Make next right into the parking lot of Amity Community Park. 

GPS: 1891 Weavertown Road, Douglassville / Coordinates: 40.299812, -75.739017

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


Tuesday, October 4, 2022

Thursday November 17, 2022 - Warwick Park - National Take a Hike Day

 5-6 miles

We'll take the Horse Shoe Trail onto the Charcoal Trail and then back to the Horse Shoe Trail along French Creek. These forests provided much of the raw timber used to make charcoal for the region's iron furnaces. We'll go to PA's only surviving Fink Truss, a pedestrian footbridge built in 1870. There are 4 moderate hills. Lunch option is the Inn at St. Peter's Village.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at parking lot at Warwick County Park.

Directions: Take I-176 to Morgantown, exit 2. Turn left onto PA-10 N /PA 23 E for 9.3 mi. Turn right onto County Park Rd., turn left into Warwick County Park. 

GPS: 382 County Park Road, Pottstown

For more information and further directions, contact: 610-750-3115


Thursday, September 29, 2022

Saturday November 12, 2022 - Blue Marsh

 5.5 moderate miles

We will hike to boat launch and back, with a few extra trails on the way back.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Stilling Basin upper parking lot.

Directions: North on Rte 183, turn left at light (CVS) onto Leesport Rd. Turn right onto County Welfare Rd to Palisades. Turn left, then right to the Stilling Basin. 

GPS: Approx. 1280 Palisades Drive, Leesport

For more information or further directions, contact: 484-797-3357


Monday, September 19, 2022

Saturday November 5, 2022 - Wyomissing Trail Hike In and Out

 ???? easy miles

A mostly flat trail with some gentle hills, we will walk through the park along the Wyomissing Creek to the end at Turkey Hill in Shillington. We will return along a few different paths to the museum parking lot. There are many places for lunch in West Reading and the group can decide where they want to eat that day.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at Reading Museum parking lot
Directions: Heading west on Penn Avenue in West Reading, turn left on 5th Avenue. This becomes Museum Road. After crossing little bridge, turn right on Parkside Drive South, then right again into museum parking lot.

GPS: 500 Museum Road, Reading

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-451-0821


Monday, September 12, 2022

Saturday October 29, 2022 - Nolde Forest

 5 moderate miles

This hike will last about 2 hours with fairly constant ascending and descending. Please carry water. Rest facilities at Saw Mill parking may not be available. Pre-8:00 a.m. constant rain, cancels; otherwise we will make a start. For those interested in lunch following the hike we will go to:
Doc and Bubba's, 4312 New Holland Road, Mohnton

Meeting place: 8:30 a.m. at Saw Mill parking lot. We will start to hike at 9:00.

Directions: The lot is the first right hand turn, southbound on Route 625 AFTER passing the intersection of 625 (New Holland Road) and Church Road. 

GPS: 2910 New Holland Road, Reading

For more information and furthers directions, contact: 610-207-2308


Thursday, September 8, 2022

Saturday October 22, 2022 - Gring's Mill Recreation Area

 4-5 easy miles

We will hike on the flat, gravel Union Canal Towpath past the Red Bridge to Paper Mill Road and beyond and then return on the same path to Gring’s Mill. Lunch for those interested at Isaac’s Restaurant (94 Commerce Drive/Reading).

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at Gring’s Mill Recreation Area grass parking lot at top of hill.
Directions: Route 222 to Broadcasting Road exit. Go east on Broadcasting and turn right on Tulpehocken Rd. Gring’s Mill will be on your left. 

GPS: 2083 Tulpehocken Road, Reading

For more information and further directions, contact: 610-763-7900


Thursday, September 1, 2022

Saturday October 15, 2022 - It's a Wedding and a Hike!

 Short hike listed in invitation sent to club members. See details in invitation!

Tuesday, August 30, 2022

Saturday October 8, 2022 - Wyomissing Park

 5 easy miles

Different terrains, a “walk in the park.”
Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at parking lot close to Wawa on Lancaster Avenue

Directions: Drive west on Lancaster Ave. through Shillington. After passing WAWA at Museum Road, turn right into parking lot.

GPS: Approx. 2220 Lancaster Pike, Reading 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-698-6784


Friday, August 26, 2022

Saturday October 1, 2022 - Nolde Park

 6-7 Moderate Miles

Be prepared for mud if weather has been wet.

Meeting Place: 9:30 a.m. at Church Road parking lot.
Directions: South on Rte 625, right on Church Road, approx. 1⁄2 mile on left. 

For more information or further instructions, contact: 610-763-2808 or 484-824-2740


Sunday, August 21, 2022

Saturday September 24, 2022 - Lancaster County Backroads Hike

 4.5 miles

This will be a loop hike on the back roads which have some moderate hills. Steady rain cancels. Maybe lunch at Shady Maple.

1st Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. behind the Dairy Queen on Route 724 in Kenhorst. Carpool to St. John’s Center on Rte 625 south of Bowmansville, approx. 12 miles.

2nd Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at St John’s Center Lutheran Church 

GPS: 599 Reading Road, East Earl

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


Thursday, August 11, 2022

Saturday September 17, 2022 - Saucon Rail Trail

 6 Miles 

This is a level, fine gravel trail. Lunch at Braveheart Highland Pub afterwards for those interested.

1st Meeting place: 9:00a.m. behind McDonald’s left of Walmart, 5372 Allentown Pike, Temple


2nd Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at Water St. Park, Hellertown. We will meet at the Pavilion in the Park.

Directions: Head north on US-222 toward Allentown and get on I-78 East. Take exit 67 / Rte 412towards Hellertown. Turn left at the bottom of the ramp. Once on Main Street in Hellertown, look for Water St. and turn right, about one block. If you get to McDonald's, you went too far. 

GPS: 90 West Water Street, Hellertown

For more information or further directions, contact: 484-284-0946 (2nd leader  coordinating 1st meeting place phone: 610-468-5039)


Sunday, August 7, 2022

Saturday September 10, 2022 - Bartrum Trail

 4-5 moderate miles

Hike from Hamburg Park to Bartram Trail via Schuylkill River Trail and return. Please bring lunch, it is a beautiful park and there are pavilions for dining. Please call if weather looks iffy.

1st Meeting place: 9:40 a.m. (please be prompt) at Redner’s, Leesport


2nd Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at Hamburg Community Park, Park Road, Hamburg


Directions: From Rte 61 take slight right onto N 4th St. Continue to follow N 4th St past theintersection with old US 22. Turn left onto Island St. Island St becomes Park Road. 


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


Tuesday, August 2, 2022

Saturday September 3, 2022 - Blue Marsh / Dog Beach & Switchback Trail

 4+ Easy miles

NOTE: County Welfare Road is closed.
The hike will begin at the Stilling Basin off Palisades Road with a .35-mile switchback at the beginning. There will be some moderate hills.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at top lot at the Stilling Basin Blue Marsh. If you don’t want to do the .35-mile beginning switchback, go to the bottom lot at the dam and wait for us.

Directions: County Welfare Road is closed. Take 183 North. At the CVS, turn left onto Christina Drive. At stop sign continue straight onto Upper Van Reed Road. Bear right to Rebers Bridge Road. At stop sign turn left then right to continue on Rebers Bridge Road. Turn right onto Palisades Road. The Stilling Basin will be on your left.

GPS: 1280 Palisades Drive, Leesport

For more information or further directions, contact: 484-557-7854 

Saturday, July 23, 2022

Saturday August 27, 2022 - Antietam / Mt Penn Hike

5 moderate miles

A jaunt through the woods, postponed from early spring. In and around trails through old orchard and up the mountain. Very steep climb concludes trip to the top.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at Antietam Lake trailhead parking lot


Directions: Take Carsonia Avenue from Mt. Penn to Stony Creek Mills. At stop sign, bear slight leftonto Antietam Road. Halfway up hill, turn left onto Angora Rd and proceed to trailhead on left. 

GPS: 306AngoraRoad,Reading

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-505-9397 please text


Monday, July 18, 2022

Monday, July 11, 2022

Saturday August 13, 2022 - Ferndale Trail & Gravity Trail

 6 Strenuous miles

We will be utilizing the entire Ferndale Trail beginning at Antietam Lake and ending at Drenkle Field. Of course, this isn’t the end of the hike. We then head to the tower, and on to Rotary Park where we connect with the Gravity Trail to return to our starting point. Almost entirely shaded but with lots of hills.

Meeting place: 9:30 AM at Antietam Lake, the large lot on the bend at the lake


Directions: Take Carsonia Avenue from Mt. Penn to Stony Creek Mills. At stop sign, bear slight left onto Antietam Road. Halfway up hill before the dam, turn left onto Angora Rd and proceed to trailhead on left.

GPS: 306 Angora Road on Google, not Mapquest [40.356368, -75.873709 on Google and Mapquest]

For morew information or further directions, contact: 610-850-1855


Tuesday, June 28, 2022

Saturday July 30, 2022 - Enola Low Grade Trail - Quarryville Section

 4-5 Easy miles

The trail is over 26 miles long so we will not be doing it all this day. We'll walk west for a couple of miles, turn around and walk east for a couple of miles.

1st Meeting place: 8a.m.at Ollie’s Outlet, 2251 Lancaster Pike, Shillington, to carpool. Leave at 8:08 and drive 31 minutes to Intercourse Fire Company for breakfast.

Directions: South on US-222 to Rte 340E, past Bird-in-Hand and go through Intercourse. Turn onto Shirk Road, the Fire Company will be on the left.

GPS: 10 N. Hollander Road, Intercourse

After breakfast we will drive 23 min. to Bushong Road Trailhead.

Directions: South on US-222, through Lancaster, east on 372 to Trailhead. 

GPS: 112 Bushong Road, Quarryville

Foir more information or further information, contact: 610-562-8680 or 484-515-8001 or email Mercedes.Jurkiewicz@gmail.com


Monday, June 20, 2022

Saturday July 23, 2022 - Blue Marsh

 4-5 Moderate miles

We will have refreshing lake views while hiking some of the trails in this local recreational park. Rain cancels.

Meeting place: 9:00 a.m. at Blue Marsh Visitor’s Center

Directions: Head north on 183. Just before Plum Creek Farm Market, turn left on Palisades to Visitor’s Center on the right. 

GPS: 1268PalisadesDrive, Leesport 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-926-3452


Tuesday, June 14, 2022

Saturday July 16, 2022 - Nolde Park

6-7 Moderate / Strenuous miles 

Expect some hills as we meander through these woodland trails.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Sawmill parking lot off Rte 625

Directions: Rte 625 two miles south of Rte 724 and Kenhorst Shopping Center 

GPS: 2910 New Holland Road, Reading

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


Wednesday, June 8, 2022

Saturday July 9, 2022 - Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area

 5-6 miles

This hike will visit Valley View overlook with a hill to climb to get there. Lunch at The Kville after the hike

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Visitors Center


Directions: From 272 south, take Rte 897 north for 14 miles to Kleinfeltersville, then take the first left after the stop sign onto Hopeland Road, then travel 2 miles to the Visitors Center. 

GPS: 100 Museum Road, Stevens 17578

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


Wednesday, June 1, 2022

Saturday July 2, 2022 - Neversink Mountain

6 miles - strenuous, difficult

We will hike for half a mile thru streets of Mt Penn from Antietam Valley Shopping Center parking lot to the start of the East Ridge trail and continue hiking the Neversink trails for 5 miles, finally retracing our steps back to the parking lot for a 6-mile hike. Wear comfortable hiking shoes. Bring water.
Note: Inclement weather cancels the hike.

1st Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at the northwest corner of the Antietam Valley Shopping Center parking lot. DIRECTIONS: From Reading take US-422 east to Mt Penn exit. Turn left onto E Neversink Rd (signs for St Lawrence/Mt Penn). After 0.6 miles, turn left onto US-422 BUS W/Perkiomen Ave. After 1.3 mile, make a sharp right onto PA-562 E/St Lawrence Ave. After 0.2 mile make a right into the Antietam Valley Shopping Center parking lot. The NW corner is next to the bank.

GPS: 2962 St Lawrence Ave, Reading [40.32817077351543, -75.87895581601859]

2nd Meeting place: 9:40 am at intersection of Fairview Ave and S 27 St, Mt Penn. Street parking only. 

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


Saturday, May 21, 2022

Saturday June 25, 2022 - Blue Marsh

 6 Moderate miles

This loop hike at Blue Marsh passes the Old Dry Road Farm on our way to inspecting the buildings at the transplanted Hottenstein homestead. We then connect to the main trail for a mile before returning via Sterner Hill and Landis roads. Expect a good variety of terrain.

Meeting placde: 9:30 a.m. at Spring Creek trailhead on Brownsville Rd

Directions: Take State Hill Rd to its end at Brownsville Rd. Turn left onto Brownsville Rd and travel 2.9 miles. The parking lot is on the right at a bend in the road at the bottom of a hill. Normally there is a drop off turning into the parking lot, take it slowly.

GPS: Approx. 1143 Brownsville Road, Wernersville [40.369922, -76.080776] 

For more information or further directions: 610-850-1855


Saturday, May 14, 2022

Saturday June 18, 2022 - Union Canal Trail

 4 Easy miles

Join me as we hike over the former "mule bridge" leading to the Union Canal trail. Starting at the Berks Leisure Area parking lot we'll hike the trail and then cross over to Penn State Berks Campus to explore that trail. Watch for Great Blue Herons along Tulpehocken Creek and maybe a few other early signs of summer. This is a rerun of March 12 hike that rain and snow cancelled!

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Berks Leisure Area

DIRECTIONS: Berkshire Blvd past Fox Movie Theater, at the stop sign turn right onto Tulpehocken Road, then left into the parking lot, just after Country Meadows. 

GPS: 1901 Tulpehocken Road, Wyomissing

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


Sunday, May 8, 2022

Saturday June 11, 2022 - Robesonia Hike

 4 Easy miles

This hike will be mostly in the woods. Possible lunch stop afterwards. Call leader for more details.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Conrad Weiser Middle School and carpool to hike start.

Directions: From Sinking Spring, head west on Rte 422 through Wernersville. Just before you get to Robesonia, turn right onto C.W. School Road, and right again to parking lot. If you get to Ozgood’s, you went too far. 

GPS: 347 Penn Avenue, Robesonia 

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


Saturday, April 30, 2022

Saturday June 4, 2022 - Wyomissing Park

 4 Easy miles

The Wyomissing Park System is comprised of over 350 acres and is easily accessible. Mr. Ferdinand Thun purchased the land and structures on both sides of the Wyomissing Creek in 1929. We are going to walk along the stream through the pine forest and loop back to the Museum. This is a beautiful, easy walk.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Reading Museum
Directions: Heading south from Penn Avenue in West Reading, 5th Avenue becomes Museum Road. Turn right on Parkside Drive South, and right again into museum parking lot. 

GPS: 500 Museum Road, Reading

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-698-6784


Monday, April 25, 2022

Saturday May 28, 2022 - Monacacy Hill Recreation Area

 5 Moderately Difficult miles

Join our group as we hike through some of the well-marked trails of the Monocacy Hill’s 428 acres. We will be going down to the creek with the charming waterfall and up to the peak with the beautiful views of the valley. We may also go by landmarks like the never-used railroad trestle and the homestead of Sallie Shirey. Hiking boots and poles are recommended as the climb is a bit rocky. For those who don’t wish to climb to the peak, an alternative path that meets up on the other side is a possibility. 

Lunch at Vincenzo’s after hike https://www.vincenzosristorante.org/ 1333 Old Swede Rd, Douglassville 610-689-8000.

Meeting place: 9:30 AM in Geiger Rd parking lot. Parking in lot is limited – you may need to park on the road leading to the lot or around the corner – but always on the side next to the recreation area. Do not park across the street where there are residents’ houses.

Directions: From 422 coming from Reading use the jug-handle to turn left onto Limekiln Rd. Turn right onto Monocacy Hill Rd, right again onto Geiger Rd and right into the parking lot.

GPS: 54 Geiger Rd, Douglassville [40.280955, -75.754068] 

For more information and further directions, contact: 610-468-5039


Monday, April 18, 2022

Saturday May 21, 2022 - Union Canal Trail / Thun Trail

 4-5 Easy miles

We will follow the trail with a short detour near the end to my house for lunch. We will have food but you can bring your own. Rain will cancel the hike.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Berks Leisure Area

Directions: Berkshire Blvd. past Fox Theater. At stop sign turn RIGHT. Then LEFT into parking Lot.

GPS: 1901 Tulpehocken Rd. Wyomissing

For more information and further directions, contact: 484-557-7854


Monday, April 11, 2022

Saturday May 14, 2022 - Green Lane Park

 5 Moderate miles

We will hike the northern shore of the reservoir and maybe see some Virginia bluebells blooming. We will be hiking from the Red Trail parking lot on Knights Road. Parking is limited.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Weis Market parking lot in Oley to carpool. Share costs.

Directions: From Breezy Corners, go east on Rte 73. At Friedensburg Road traffic light, turn left, go past service station and turn left into shopping center parking lot. 

GPS: 61 King's Plaza, Oley

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


Monday, April 4, 2022

Saturday May 7, 2022 - Antietam / Mt Penn Hike

 5 Moderate miles

A jaunt through the woods in early Spring. In and around trails through old orchard and up the mountain. Very steep climb concludes trip to the top.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at Antietam Lake trailhead parking lot

Directions: Take Carsonia Avenue from Mt. Penn to Stony Creek Mills. At stop sign, bear slight left onto Antietam Road. Halfway up hill, turn left onto Angora Rd and proceed to trailhead on left. 

GPS: 306 Angora Road, Reading

For more information and further directions, contact: 610-505-9397 please text


Monday, March 28, 2022

Saturday April 30, 2022 - Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area

4 miles

Hike the Middle Creek and Elders Run Trails (loop) from the Laurel Drive parking lot. Easy walk along the scenic Middle Creek to Elders Run Trail on a former trolley bed. Elders Run Trail is a strenuous gravel uphill trail to the top of the ridge and then back down through the woods. We’ll pass the remains of the former Game Commission headquarters built in the 1930’s. Then it’s an easy trail through the forest back to the parking lot. Some areas are rocky and may be muddy. Hiking boots and poles recommended. Rain cancels.

Meeting place: 1:00 p.m. at Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area Laurel Drive Parking Lot. 

NOTE: This was originally a morning start until MCWM told us it’s turkey season and we can only hike at 1:00 or on Sunday. Orange shirt or vest recommended.

Directions: Take 222 to Denver then take Steinmetz Road/Mt Airy Road to Forest Hill Road. Turn right on Forest Hill Road, then left on Kleinfeltersville Road and another left onto Laurel Road. Parking lot is about 1⁄4 mile on the left.

GPS: 399 Laurel Road, Newmanstown


For more information or further directions, contact: 610-636-9815


Sunday, March 20, 2022

Saturday April 23, 2022 - Forbidden Drive in thew Wissahickon Valley

 5 Moderate miles

The hike will be a mix of trails along the creek and in the hills in the valley. We'll cross the last covered bridge inside a major city. [Trip costs 1-way: 53 mi, toll EZ $5.50, toll noEZ $11.60]

Meeting place: 9:00 a.m. – Carpool from Boscov’s East parking lot. Share costs.

Direwctions to Northwestern Stables: From Boscov’s/Exeter, go west on 422 to I-176 (Morgantown Expressway), then south to the PA turnpike, and east on I-76. At Valley Forge stay on turnpike (I-276). Take Exit 333/Norristown onto I-476 toward Chester. Keep right 4/10 mile and take Germantown Pike 3.7 miles. Turn right onto Northwestern Ave.

GPS: 120 W. Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia

For more information and further directions, contact: 610-223-4568 or 610-208-0201


Monday, March 14, 2022

Saturday April 16, 2022 - Lake Border Trail / North Loop

 7+ Moderate miles

We will start & end on Old Church Road. There will be hills and one real long hill. We will be on the mountain and come back by an easy trail along route 183. Rain may cancel the hike.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Old Church Road Parking Lot.

Directions: From Rte 222 north, take Rte 183 north (Bernville Road) for about 6 miles. Turn left onto Old Church Road. Parking will be on left after turn. 

GPS: Old Church Road, Robesonia

For more information and further directions, contact: 484-557-7854


Monday, March 7, 2022

Saturday April 9, 2022 - Kaercher Creek Dam and Vicinity

Approx 5 Moderate miles

We will hike some of the old trails in the now closed Kaercher Creek County Park. We will see some remnants of the graded but never finished Allentown and Auburn Railroad from 1875, as well as a nice blend of woods, town roads, cemetery, and fields. There are multiple options for lunch afterwards—group choice.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Kaercher Creek Boat Launch parking area

Directions: Take Rt. 61 N. to Hamburg. Bear right onto 4th Street. At third traffic light, turn right onto State Street (old Rte 22). Proceed about 1 mile and turn right onto driveway into the former park, across from the old Hamburg Center. Look for the white and red sign for the Hamburg Soccer Association.

GPS: 3501Old Rte22, Hamburg

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


Tuesday, March 1, 2022

Saturday April 2, 2022 - Antietam Lake

5 Moderate Miles

Spring into spring while enjoying Antietam Lake and the surrounding falls. Starting at the Angora Road Trailhead, we will take the lower muddy trail to view the scenic falls to the Seidel Road Trailhead. We will then check out the Stone Walled Creek area which was originally the Hinnershitz Farm, barn, grist mill, and basin. The return will be on the drier upper trail. Expect mud so waterproof boots and poles are recommended. Optional lunch after the hike. Rain cancels.

Meeting place: 9:00am at the Antietam Lake Trailhead parking lot. Park in the larger lot.

Directions: Take Carsonia Avenue from Mount Penn to Stony Creek. At end of Carsonia Avenue at stop sign take a slight left onto Antietam Road. Halfway up hill make the left onto Angora Road. Follow curved road and proceed to Antietam Lake Trailhead parking lot on left side.

GPS: 306 Angora Road (40.3564372, -758736809)

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

Monday, February 28, 2022

Saturday March 26, 2022 - Antietam Lake Hike

8 moderate to strenuous miles

The hike will begin at Antietam Lake parking area. We will go to the William Penn Tower via several trails including Wood Cutters, Rip-it, Towers, Red Dot and then hike further to the Pagoda. We will return via the Ferndale/Gravity trails and then the Green trail down to the parking area. I like to go on average 3 mph, so expect the hike to last about 2 hours 45 minutes (excluding a short break at the Pagoda). Rain cancels.

Meeting place: 8:45 a.m. Hike begins promptly at 9.


Directions: Take Carsonia Avenue from Mt. Penn to Stony Creek Mills. At stop sign, bear slight left 
onto Antietam Road. Halfway up hill, turn left onto Angora Rd. and proceed to trailhead on left. 

GPS: 306 Angora Road, Reading

For more information or further directions, contact: 215-205-3923

Saturday, February 19, 2022

Saturday March 19, 2022 - Trails of Birdsboro Waters Preserve

 5 moderate miles

We will make use of the newly built pedestrian bridge over the Hay Creek to hike trails of Birdsboro Waters Preserve – 1800-acres of woods set aside to preserve the quality of drinking water for Birdsboro residents. Note: Inclement weather cancels the hike.

Meeting place: 9:30a.m.attheparkinglotlocatedatthesouthernendoftheRusticParkofRobesonTownship (just south of Birdsboro).

Directions: From Reading take US-422 east to PA-345 (about 9 miles). Turn right onto PA-345 (to Birdsboro). Continue on PA-345 for about 1 mile. then continue on N. Furnace Street for about 1⁄3 mile. Continue on Haycreek Road for about 1 mile until the road ends at the new pedestrian bridge. Turn right into the parking lot.

GPS: 1314 Haycreek Road, Birdsboro [40.253789926843716, -75.81398086024939] 

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

Saturday, February 12, 2022

Saturday March 12, 2022 - Union Canal Trail

4 easy miles

Join the leader as we hike over the former "mule bridge" leading to the Union Canal trail. Starting at the Berks Leisure Area parking lot we'll hike the trail and then cross over to Penn State Berks Campus to explore that trail. Watch for Great Blue Herons along Tulpehocken Creek and maybe a few other early signs of spring. Rain or snow cancels.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Berks Leisure Area
Directions: Berkshire Blvd past Fox Movie Theater, at the stop sign turn right onto Tulpehocken Road, then left into the parking lot, just after Country Meadows. 

GPS: 1901 Tulpehocken Road, Wyomissing

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

Friday, February 4, 2022

Saturday March 5, 2022 - Neversink Mountain

 Approx 6.5 to 7 miles

In the last year we have done two hikes on Neversink beginning from Mineral Spring Park covering the east and west ends of the mountain. This hike will cover much of what those hikes missed. We will pass the Witch's Hat, walk through Klapperthal Glen and take much of the trail above the Schuylkill until we cross over the mountain to return. There will be several steep climbs and descents. Snowy or icy roads cancel.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. on S. 19th St. at the start of Mineral Spring Park, near the former East End Athletic Assn. in sight of the Lindberg Viaduct.

Directions: From Perkiomen Ave, take S. 19th St under the Lindberg Viaduct, and proceed about 1/10 mile.

GPS: S. 19th Street, Reading [40.332433,-75.897637] 


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

Monday, January 24, 2022

Saturday February 26, 2021 - Monocacy Hill

5 moderate miles

We will climb up the hill from the front and down the steps in the back (if weather is conducive) and do a few other trails (Creek Trail for sure). We can, if we have another willing leader, break into two groups, if some do not want to hike the hill for the winter view as far as the Pagoda. Active heavy snow, rain or Ice on the roads cancels this hike. Bring poles & spikes ifb needed. Lunch options (in order of my preference): Vincenzo’s Ristorante, Uncle Jacks, Italian Delight, Island Pizza.

Meeting place: 9:50 a.m. at Monocacy Hill Recreation Area main parking lot. Hike will start at 10. 

Directions: From 422 E, take roundabout for a left hand turn onto Limekiln Road, right turn onto Monocacy Hill Road, right turn onto Geiger Road parking lot.

GPS: 54 Geiger Road, Douglassville

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-385-6862 before, 484-797-4234 day of hike


Friday, January 14, 2022

Saturday February 19, 2022 - Wyomissing Park to Reading Museum

5+ easy miles

This will be a loop hike with creek, trails, meadow, pineforest. Lunch there after is a possibility. Excessive snow or ice may lead to postponement.

Meeting place: 10 a.m. at Wyomissing Quarry Soccer Fields parking lot

Directions: Drive west on Lancaster Avenue through Shillington. After passing WAWA at Museum Road, turn right into the soccer field parking lot. 

GPS: Approx. 2220 Lancaster Pike, Reading

For more information or further directions, contact: Cell:610-301-4342

Sunday, January 2, 2022

Saturday February 12, 2022 - Leesport Area Hike

5 moderate miles

We will hike back roads around Leesport, mostly sidewalks, some hills. We’ll probably go around the hunting preserve, will adjust hike to the weather. Steady rain or heavy snow cancels.

Meeting place: 10a.m.behind Schuylkill Valley Library at Leesport Playground.


Directions: Take Rte 61 north to Leesport. At Turkey HIll, turn left onto W. Wall St. Cross river, then take 1st left and follow library signs. It will be on the right. 

GPS: 1310 Washington Road, Leesport

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