Saturday February 17, 2024 - Oren Holl Memorial Loop - In and Out version - part two!

4 or 6 miles.

This is a different hike than January 20 although both hikes start at the same place. It is not the Oren Holl loop; it is an in-and-out hike. Be aware this is a mountain biking trail. Wear orange to be safe.

Meeting place: 9:30 am at Holl’s Trailhead off Highland Road.

Directions: From State Hill Road turn left onto Brownsville Road. Turn right onto Highland Road at Spitlers Collision (approx. 1.7 miles). The road is not maintained and very rutty. The trailhead is on the right.

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

Saturday February 10, 2024 - Nolde Park

5-6 miles, moderate to difficult

We will start the hike on Church Road. Rain or snow cancels. 

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. Church Road parking lot

Directions: From the traffic light at Rt. 724 and 625 in Kenhorst, proceed South on Rt. 625, 7/10 mile, turn right onto Church Rd and proceed 3/10 mile. Parking lot is on the left.

For more information or further directions, please contact: 610-223-6952

Saturday February 3, 2024 - Port Clinton Fire Tower

6 difficult miles

This hike begins with lots of mountain to climb, the objective being the Port Clinton Fire Tower. The Appalachian Trail is used briefly but Game Land roads are mostly traveled. Footing should not be too bad. After finding the fire tower, we retrace our steps for the downhill return. Best to wear orange. Snow, rain, or deep snow on trails cancels.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at Game Lands parking lot on Swamp Pike Road.
Note: Pine Swamp Rd is a semi-circle. It intersects Hawk Mountain Rd twice. These directions access the parking area from Pine Swamp Rd's western most intersection with Hawk Mountain Rd.

Directions #1: From northbound Route 143, turn left on Hawk Mountain Rd (Sunoco station at inter- section). Continue on Hawk Mountain Rd past the first sign for Pine Swamp Rd to roughly the base of the mountain where Pine Swamp Rd will be seen to the left. There is a white house at this intersection. If you start climbing the mountain, you went too far.

Directions  #2: From northbound Route 61, turn right onto Route 895. In Drehersville, turn right onto Hawk Mountain Rd. Climb the mountain, pass the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, go down the other side. Pretty much at the base of the mountain with a white house on the right, turn right onto Pine Swamp Rd.

FINAL Directions: From the westernmost intersection of Hawk Mountain Rd and Pine Swamp Rd, go about 1/2 mile on Pine Swamp Rd. Turn right onto a gravel lane. Go 1/10 mile to the parking lot.

GPS: Approximately [40.626004, -75.952234] 

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

Saturday January 27, 2024 - NOTE: Change in Hike - WYOMISSING PARK!

? miles

We will take a pleasant hike through Wyomissing Park.

Meeting place: 9:30 am a.m. at Wyomissing Quarry Soccer Fields parking lot
Directions: Drive west on Lancaster Avenue through Shillington. Go past the WAWA at Museum Road and turn right into the soccer field parking lot.

GPS: approx. 2220 Lancaster Pike, Reading

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

Saturday January 20, 2024 - Oren Holl Memorial Loop

Approx. 4 miles, very hilly

Hills are quite moderate but, there are a lot. Very pleasant walk through the woods. Be aware this is a mountain biking trail. WEAR ORANGE TO BE SAFE.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Holl’s Trailhead off Highland Road.
Directions: From State Hill Road turn left onto Brownsville Road. Turn right onto Highland Road at Spitlers Collision (approx. 1.7 miles) The road is not maintained and very rutty. The trailhead is on the right.

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

Saturday January 13, 2024 - Six Penny Loop

6-7 miles, rated “vigorous” due to hills and distance

This is a “lollipop hike” taking Hopewell Big Woods Trail into French Creek State Park and the Six Penny loop. There are no restroom facilities at the parking lot. WEAR ORANGE as the hike starts in State Game Lands. Frozen precipitation actively falling at 9:30 or temps below freezing with icy roads cancels this hike. Bring lunch & a chair and/or a group can go out to lunch afterwards.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m.
Directions: From Birdsboro, take 724 going East, for 1.3 miles. Turn R onto Center Road, (just before Fork & Ale), travel 9/10 mile to parking lot on left, next to a municipal building. 

GPS: 165 Center Road, Douglassville, PA 19518 [40.247200, -75.792440]

Foir more information or further directions, please contact: 484-797-4234 or 570-706-8541

If you need to contact someone before the hike, keep in mind that many places where we hike have no cell reception. Voice mail is not received until well after the hike. Your best bet is to send a text message since texting uses a different technology and is more likely to get through.

Saturday January 6, 2024 - Nolde Forest

 Approximately 4 miles ....good pace (rain/snow cancels)

To start we will hike up the forest center to top from Sawmill Parking, continuing back down and up a couple times ... about 90 min. Hiking shoes/boots are best suited for Nolde.

Meeting place: Leaving Sawmill parking lot at 9:30a.m.

Directions: About 1 mile south from Philadelphia Avenue (RT 724) and New Holland Road (RT 625) traffic light, passing Church Road to Sawmill Parking entrance on the right. 

For more information or further directions, please contact: 610-207-2308

Saturday December 30, 2023 - Lake Ontelaunee Hike

Approx. 6 miles (3 miles out, 3 miles back)

We’ll walk along the shore of Lake Ontelaunee. Relatively easy, flat hike. Will be canceled in the event of extreme cold, rain, or heavy snow. Lunch optional afterward at Rico Casa, 600 Shoemaker Ave., Shoemakersville (on Rte 61 across the street from Sheetz).

Meeting place: 9:30 am at Parking Area Ontelaunee Trails

Directions: From Reading, take US-222 north to Moselem Springs, then go west on 662. Alternatively, take PA-61 north to Shoemakersville, then go east on 662. 

GPS: 1561-1599 Moselem Spring Rd, Hamburg 

GPS: 40.500823,-75.888170 

For more information or further directions, contact: 412-445-7319 or 412-445-7359

Saturday December 23, 2023 - The Maiden Creek & Country Roads

Join our "traditional" cool weather hike along the Maiden Creek and country roads in the hills near Lenhartsville. This is a moderate 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 afterward to be decided by the group. Extreme cold ( <20 degrees F ), ice or snow storm cancels.

Meeting place: 10:00 AM at the rear of the side parking lot of C.J. Hummels, Rt.143 Lenhartsville. 

GPS: 28 Willow St, RT.143 in downtown Lenhartsville.

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

Saturday December 16, 2023 - Nolde Forest

4-5 moderate miles

We will hike on mostly gradual hills, but with a few short steep ones as we traverse Nolde Forest. Rain, snow, or ice cancels. You can pack a lunch and eat at one of the picnic tables if the weather is warm and sunny or do lunch out on your own.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at the Sawmill Parking lot along Route 625.

Directions: From Route 724, turn south at the intersection of Route 625 (New Holland Road). Pass Church Road on the right. The Sawmill Parking Lot is a short distance past this on the right. 

For more information and further directions, contact: 610-763-8376

Saturday December 9, 2023 - Wyomissing Night-Lights!!!

3-4 easy miles
Something different! The Christmas festivities will continue as we stroll through Wyomissing to check out the beautiful decorations. Rain or snow cancels.

Meeting place: 5:00 pm at the Knitting Mills Parking Lot, Penn Avenue & Park Road

Directions: Heading west on Penn Avenue through West Reading, turn right at Wawa onto Park Road, go 1⁄2 block, then left on Court Lane and left again into parking lot. 

GPS: 900 block Penn Avenue, Wyomissing (entrance off Park Road) 

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

Saturday December 9, 2023 - Annual Christmas Party - See CLUB FLYER for details

 See CLUB FLYER for Christmas Party Details

12:30 pm Hike followed by Christmas Dinner 2:00pm - 4:00pm

See Wyomissing Christmas Night-Lights for after-party activity!!!

Saturday December 2, 2023 - Gring's Mill Recreation Area

6 easy miles

We will hike on the flat, gravel Union Canal Towpath beside the Tulpehocken Creek.

Meeting place: 9:30 am at Gring’s Mill Recreation Area parking lot.

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: 610-763-2808

Saturday November 25, 2023 - Blue Marsh Skinners Loop trail

Approx. 6-7 moderate miles

From the parking lot we will walk about 1/2 mile to Skinners Loop. We will see the remains of a few houses that were there. Mostly level with a few small hills. Bring a chair and your lunch for a picnic after the hike (there are some tables available).

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Old Church Road parking lot off 183
DIRECTIONS: From south Reading take 422W to 222N to Rte 183N. Travel approx. 5 miles to Old Church Rd and turn left. Parking lot on your left. 

GPS: Blue Marsh Old Church Rd parking lot

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

Saturday November 18, 2023 - Hibernia County Park

Approx. 6-7 miles

We will travel trails at historic Hibernia Park and enjoy the fall weather. The park consists of over 900 acres of trails, woodlands, and meadows. We will most likely walk around the lake and along the banks of the beautiful Brandywine Creek. There is also Hibernia Mansion, the 19th century ironmaster’s home, to visit while we are there. Play it safe—wear orange.

1st Meeting place: 9:15am at Livingood Park

GPS: 14 Parkside Drive, Elverson 40.15431 -75.83611 

2nd Meeting place: 10:00am at Hibernia County Park

GPS: 1 Park Road, Coatesville 40.02675 -75.84941 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-223-6952

Friday November 17 - NATIONAL TAKE-A-HIKE DAY - Antietam Lake / Angora Fruit Farm Hike

6-7 miles on moderately hilly trails

We will be walking some less traveled trails on Mount Penn starting at the previous Angora Fruit Farm that is now a park. We will visit the Pagoda and Tower. Bring water and snacks, and wear orange.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at park office at the Angora Fruit Farm at 502 Angora Rd.
GPS: 502 Angora Rd., Reading 40.35902 -75.88246

Directions: Please Note: Road detours from construction/road closures in Stony Creek.

UPDATES: Roads have been open, but keep below directions in case roads are closed again during construction.

If roads are open, from Perkiomen Ave. turn onto Carsonia Ave., follow Carsonia Avenue into Stony Creek, turn left onto Antietam Road. Make first left onto Angora Road, follow around Antietam Lake and stay on Angora Rd. past the lake. Angora Fruit Farm Park is at 502 Angora Rd. Look for a small sign on the left and turn left toward the park office / farm house.

If roads are closed again:

Using Perkiomen Avenue, from Exeter toward Reading:At Perkiomen Ave. traffic light at McDonald’s in Mt Penn, turn right onto Rte 562 (St Lawrence Ave). At the second traffic light turn left onto Bingaman St. This becomes Butter Lane, proceed about a mile and turn left onto Exeter Road. At stop sign, go straight onto Antietam Road. Make the first left onto Angora Rd at the Antietam Dam. Follow around Antietam Lake and stay on Angora Rd. past the lake. Angora Fruit Farm Park is at 502 Angora Rd. Look for a small sign on the left and turn left toward the park office / farm house.

Using Perkiomen Avenue, from Reading to Mount Penn (due to road closures):
At top of hill on Perkiomen Ave. turn left onto Carsonia Ave. At second light, make left onto Friedensburg Rd. Follow Friedensburg Rd. and make left onto Spook Lane. At top of Spook Lane, turn left and pass Egelman’s Park. Immediately at end of Egelman’s park, turn right onto Angora Rd. Follow Angora Rd for 1.9 miles until you reach 502 Angora Rd. on right side. Turn right and follow road to park office / farm house.

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-223-6952

Saturday November 11 - Hamburg Reservoir / Ha Ha Trail!

6 to 6.5 miles – Moderate to strenuous

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: 10:00 at 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 or further directions, contact: 610-850-1855

Saturday November 4 - Boone Trail at French Creek State Park

6 moderate miles

The trail is in the woods and is around the perimeter of both Hopewell and Scotts Run. Some hills and rocks.

Meeting place: 9:30 at French Creek Park Swimming Pool (near Hopewell Lake)

Directions: From Rt 345 enter the Park at Park Road; take the first left after the Hopewell Lake parking entrance (Park Ranger office -843 Park Road- will be on the corner) follow road about one mile to the parking lot.

GPS: 40.1991392809603, -75.7836946593701 

For more information and further directions, contact: 610-587-2180

Saturday October 28, 2023 - Blue Marsh Lake - Fox Trot Trail

About 4 moderate miles

Bring lunch with you and enjoy the lake after the hike. Heavy rain cancels, trail will be muddy.

Meeitn place: 10:00 am

Directions: Pass Stilling Basin, Blue Marsh Welcome Center, and boat ramp. Make a left turn to the beach area go all the way down close to the water and parking area. 

GPS: 1268 Palisades Drive, Bern Township 19533

LEADER: Nick Tzafaras – 484-507-6926

Saturday October 21, 2023 - Antietam Lake Hike

8 moderate/strenuous miles

The hike will begin at Antietam Lake (parking area), starting promptly at 9:00 a.m. We will go to the Wm. Penn Tower via several trails including Wood Cutters, Towers, Rip-it, Red Dot and then hike further to the Pagoda. Some road hiking may take place. We will return via the Ferndale/Gravity trails and then to the Green trail down back to the parking area. I like to go an average of 3 mph [get that exercise in  ]. So expect this to last ~ 3 hours (excluding a short break at the Pagoda). Rain cancels. Orange Blaze vest and/or hat is required due to archery activity up there. 

NOTE: Carsonia bridge is under construction so follow detours taking Exeter Road to Antietam Road and then to Angora.

Meeting place: 8:45 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 Rd but only one is in sight of the lake.

GPS: 230 Angora Road, Reading 

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

Saturday October 14, 2023 - Ephrata Rail Trail Hike

5 miles - no-hills

We will hike through scenic farmland to Warwick Township and back. Steady rain cancels. Optional lunch afterwards. There is a good map of the trail online at “Ephrata Rail Trail.”

1st Meeting place: 9:30a.m. at Ollie's parking lot in Shillington and drive approx. 20 miles to the trailhead. 2nd Meeting place: Meadow Valley Road Trailhead

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

Saturday October 7, 2023 - Nolde Forest

Approximately 4 miles ....good pace (Rain Cancels)

To start we will hike up the forest center to top from Sawmill Parking, continuing back down and up a couple times ... about 90 min. Hiking shoes/boots are best suited for Nolde. Sawmill restroom is open.

Meeting place: Sawmill parking lot @9:30

Directions: About 1 mile south from Philadelphia Avenue (RT 724) and New Holland Road (RT 625) traffic light, passing Church Road to Sawmill Parking entrance on the right. 

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

UPDATE! NEW DATE - Saturday September 30, 2023 - Lower Switchback Rail Trail / Jim Thorpe

NOTE: UPDATE - Hike Leaders have changed dates of listed hikes

9 moderate miles

We will once again visit the Switchback in JT, where history and nature come together on a trail that dates back to the early 1800s when trains hauled coal from the mines to the Lehigh Canal. Starting at Mauch Chunk Lake Park, we will take the lower trail into town, enjoy lunch, then return on the same trail. There will be a steep descent and ascent into town. Bring water and snacks, along with hiking boots for the rocky and muddy sections. Rain cancels.

1st Meeting place: 8:30 a.m. at Redner's Market, 5471 Pottsville Pike, Leesport (Rt. 61 North)
2nd Meeting placer: 10:00 a.m. at Mauch Chunk Lake Park

Directions: 61 north for approx. 13 miles, right onto 895 for 6.7 miles, left onto E. Railroad Ave in New Ringgold for another 6.7 miles, left onto W. Penn Pike for 2.2 miles, right onto Owl Creek Road (careful, hard to see this turn) for 8.1 miles to Mauch Chunk Lake Park Office 

GPS: 625 Lentz Trail, Jim Thorpe [40.843472, -75.805361]

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

UPDATE - NEW DATE - Saturday September 23, 2023 - Ephrata Rail Trail Hike

NOTE: UPDATE - Hike Leaders have changed dates of listed hikes

5 no-hills miles

We will hike through scenic farmland to Warwick Township and back. Steady rain cancels. Optional lunch afterwards. There is a good map of the trail online at “Ephrata Rail Trail.”

1st Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Ollie's parking lot in Shillington and drive approx. 20 miles to the trailhead.

2nd Meeting place: Meadow Valley Road Trailhead

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

Saturday September 16, 2023 - Trexler Nature Preserve (Lehigh County)

9 Strenuous Miles

We will hike the Border Loop. This trail has many elevation changes, some steep. Beautiful views. Should take just under 4 1/2 hours on the trail. Lunch options afterwards.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. on Orchard Road parking lot

Directions: Take I-78E to 22E to 309N toward Schnecksville. Go about 5 miles and turn left onto Old Packhouse Road. Go about 1 mile and turn right onto Orchard Rd. Parking lot on left.

GPS: 4935 Orchard Road, Schnecksville

For more information or further directions, contact: 484-284-0946

Saturday September 9, 2023 - Gring's Mill Recreation Area

4-5 easy miles

We will hike on the flat, gravel Union Canal Towpath beside the Tulpehocken Creek. Bring a packed lunch for after the hike.

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

Important UPDATE! - Saturday September 2, 2023 - Blue Marsh Hike

 5-6 Moderately Difficult Miles

We will use Sterner Hill Rd to connect two sections of the Blue Marsh Trail. We return via the Hottenstein buildings, Old Dry Road Farm, and Justa Road. Several long, steep hills on this hike.

Meeting place: 9:30 am at the Spring Creek trailhead

Please see UPDATED directions, original directions, were in error

Directions: At the end of State Hill Road (Ganley’s) turn LEFT on Brownsville Road and proceed 2.9 miles west.

GPS: 1175 Brownsville Road

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

Saturday August 26, 2023 - Monocacy Hill Recreation Area Hike

5 Moderately Difficult Mile (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/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 afterward, 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 – if parking on the road, park on the side next to the recreation area, NOT across the street at 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: 42 Geiger Rd, Douglassville PA 19518 [40.280955, -75.754068] 

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

Saturday August 19, 2023 - AnnuaL BCHC Picnic

 See emailed club flyer for details.

Reservations due by August 5th

Hike at 11:00 am

Picnic at 2:00 pm

Saturday August 12, 2023 - West Neversink Hike

4-5 Miles - Moderate to Difficult

North Neversink trail to West Woodland trail to South Neversink and loop back to start. Hills, rocks, straight paths, beautiful mountain, lots of history. No rain or oppressive heat.

Meeting place: 9:30 am at Gate #6 - at intersection of 10th & South Sts. in East Reading

Directions: 10th & South Streets, Reading, next to 10 & South playground. 

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

Saturday August 5, 2023 - Middle Creek Overlook Hike

Approximately 6 Miles - Moderate

This hike will visit two overlooks with several hills to climb to get there. Lunch after will be at the Kville Hotel in beautiful downtown Kleinfeltersville.

Meeting place: 10:00 am 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

Saturday July 29, 2023 - Berks Nature Center

Approximately 4 miles

We will walk one mile to Angelica Creek Park, meander the trails at the Berks Nature Center, then have a history tour of the Alvernia University grounds; hopefully with a guide. Retrace our steps to the parking area, so an in and out-ish hike. Leader will not go to lunch but will recommend a place to eat. Heavy rain or dangerously hot & humid weather cancels the hike.

Meeting place: 9:00 am at Brentwood Trailhead of the Schuylkill River Trail

DIRECTIONS: South on Rte 10/Morgantown Road, 8/10 mile from Lancaster Ave. Parking area on left. 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-451-0821 (text or call)

Saturday July 22, 2023 - Wyomissing Park

4 Easy to Moderate Miles

We will be traversing Wyomissing Park via the muyseum.

Meeting place: 9:30 am at Reading Museum parking lot

Directions: Heading west on Penn Avenue in West Reading, turn left on 5th Avenue/Museum Road. After crossing small 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: 610-698-6784

Saturday July 15, 2023 - Blue Marsh Trail & Fox Trot Trail

 Approximately 4.5 miles - Easy to Moderate

We will hike part of the Blue Marsh Trail (BMT) and part of the Fox Trot Trail (FTT). Mostly flat through woods and field.

Meeting place: 10:00 am Visitors Center off  of Palisades Dr.

Directions: From Reading go north on 183. Just before Plum Creek Farm Market, turn left onto Palisades. The Visitors Center will be on your right.

GPS: 1268 Palisades Dr., Leesport

Fore more information or further directions, contact: 484-256-7619

Saturday July 8, 2023 - Nolde Forest Perimeter

Approximately 5 miles

We will hike the perimeter of the park which has some difficult hills. Bring plenty of water. Rain or snow cancels it.

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

Directions: From the traffic light on Lancaster Ave. in Kenhorst, proceed approximately 0.8 miles on Route 625 South. Turn right on Church Road. Parking lot is approximately 0.2 miles on the left.

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

Saturday July 1, 2023 - French Creek State Park - Mill Creek Trail

6 moderate miles

Expect rocks and hills. This is a back-country-type loop hike. Once we cross Shed Road we will not cross another road. Bring plenty of water and wear proper footwear. We can discuss lunch options the day of the hike.

Meeting place: 9:30 am on Shed Road parking lot off Rte 345 French Creek State Park 

Directions: From Reading go east on Rte 422 to Rte 345, left turn onto Shed Road. 

GPS: 40.217733, -75.775517

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

Saturday June 24, 2023 - Blue Marsh

5 to 6 moderate to difficult miles

This will be a loop hike primarily on new bicycle trails. Explore new parts of Blue Marsh. Many hills, generally in woods and fields, only a bit near the lake.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at the State Hill boat ramp

Directions: From Reading take State Hill Road. At State Hill turn left onto Brownsville Road, proceed 1/2 mi and turn right at State Hill Boat Ramp. Drive to bottom of hill to car parking. 

GPS: 600 Brownsville Road, Sinking Spring [40.367703, -76.042996 on Google]

For more information or further directions, please contact: C:610-850-1855

Saturday June 17, 2023 - Bartram Trail, Hamburg

Approximately 4 easy miles 

This hike is a gravel path with no hills. Rain will cancel the hike.

Meeting place: 9:00 a.m.

Directions:: From Rt. 61 North to Hamburg, bear right before the traffic light unto South 4th street. Cross State Street and turn left on Island Street. Continue to the end, turn right and park. 

GPS: Hamburg Borough Swimming Pool

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

Saturday June 10, 2023 - Jacobsburg State Park (Northampton County)

Approximately 7 miles, easy to moderate 

Beautiful park. Worth the drive from Reading. Three hours on the trails. Lunch options afterwards.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center.
Directions: Take I-78E to 22E to 33N (approx. 7.5 miles on 33 towards Stroudsburg). Take the exit toward Belfast, then left on Belfast Rd. Environmental Center parking lots are on the left. We will meet at the upper lot in front of the Education Center building. 

GPS: 400 Belfast Road, Nazareth [40.784, -75.2936]

For more information or further directions, please contact: 484-284-0946

Saturday June 3, 2023 - Blue Marsh / Oren Holl Memorial Loop

Approx. 4 hilly miles

The hills are quite moderate but there are a lot. It’s a very pleasant walk through the woods. Be aware this is a mountain biking trail. WEAR ORANGE TO BE SAFE.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Holl’s Trailhead off Highland Road.

Directions: From Reading take State Hill Road. At State Hill turn left onto Brownsville Road. Go approx. 1.7 mi and turn right onto Highland Road at Spitler’s garage. (Road is very rutty.) Trailhead is on the right.

GPS: Blue Marsh Lake Holl’s Trailhead

For more information or further directions, please contact: C: 484-557-7854 with questions.

Saturday May 27, 2023 - Trails of Birdsboro Waters Preserve

5 moderate miles

We will 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: 9:30 a.m. at the parking lot located at the southern end of the Rustic Park of Robeson Township (just south of Birdsboro).

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

GPS: 1314 Hay Creek Rd, Birdsboro [40.253789926843716, -75.81398086024939] 

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

Saturday May 20, 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/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 afterward, 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 – if parking on the road, park on the side next to the recreation area, NOT across the street at 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, please contact: 610-468-5039

Saturday May 13, 2023 - Trexler Nature Preserve (Lehigh County)

9 1⁄2 strenuous miles

We will be hiking the Border Loop. This trail has many elevation changes, some steep. Beautiful views. Should take just under four hours on the trail. Lunch options afterwards.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m.

Directions: Take I-78E to 22E to 309N toward Schnecksville. Go about 5 miles and turn left onto OldPackhouse Rd. Go about 1 mile and turn right onto Orchard Rd. Parking lot on left. 

GPS: 4935 Orchard Road, Schnecksville

For more information or further directions, please contact: 484-284-0946

Saturday May 6, 2023 - Blue Marsh Skinners Loop Trail

Approx. 6-7 moderate miles

From the parking lot we will walk about 1/2 mile to Skinners Loop. We will see the remains of a few houses that were there. Mostly level with a few small hills. Bring a chair and your lunch for a picnic after the hike (there are some tables available).

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Old Church Road parking lot off 183

Directions: From south Reading take 422W to 222N to Rte 183N. Travel approx. 5 miles to Old Church Rd and turn left. Parking lot on your left. 

GPS: Blue Marsh Old Church Rd parking lot

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

Saturday April 29, 2023 - French Creek State Park

5 moderate miles

We will hike the Six Penny Trail. This is a loop hike in forested area with some hills. Steady rain cancels.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at French Creek State Park Campground Visitor lot (just beyond dump station & amphitheater, across the road from the playground).

Directions: From Reading, take 422E to Rte 345 through Birdsboro. Turn right onto Chestnut Street and continue 4.3 miles to French Creek State Park. Turn right onto Park Road for 9/10 mile and right onto Campground Road.

GPS: 410 Park Road, Elverson [40°12'55.0"N / 75°46'53.2"W]

For more information or further directions, please contact: tammyphillips312@gmail.com or phone 610-587-2180

Saturday April 22, 2023 - Earth Day 2023 - Hike & Celebration of Life Honoring Rudy Visser

After a short hospital stay, Rudy Visser, nearly 96, passed away on November 21, 2022. Annelies is inviting friends, fellow hikers and family to join her on a tribute hike and share in a Celebration of Life for Rudy.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at the BARN at Gring’s Mill for an easy hike along the Tully.

Directions: From Reading take 222N to Broadcasting Road exit. Go east on Broadcasting and turn right on Tulpehocken. Gring’s Mill will be on your left. Hikers are asked to save the macadam lot for non-hikers. Please park in the “Tennis Court/Bus” grassy area to the right. Walk down the hill to the stone barn. [Note: The Strollers are meeting at the same time to hike from the parking lot.]

GPS: 2083 Tulpehocken Road, Wyomissing 

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

The hike will end at noon back at the stone barn to celebrate Rudy’s life. Please see the attachment that was furnished by Annelies’ family. Hot food will be provided, salads and desserts are encouraged. Please bring your own beverage.

Saturday April 15, 2023 - Blue Marsh Lake Border Trail North

7+ moderately difficult loop

We will start on the low side along Rte 183. The first two miles are easy terrain and can be a shorter hike in- and-out for anyone not wanting to do 7 miles. This is followed by several long hills.

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

Directions: From Reading take Rte 183 North past Blue Marsh Italian Restaurant or Plum Creek Farm Market. Approx. 3.6 miles (5 min.) turn left onto Old Church Road. Parking lot is on left. 

GPS: Old Church Road, Bernville [40.407247 ,-76.07896]

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

Saturday April 8, 2023 - Kaercher Creek Dam and Vicinity

Approx. 4 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 route 61 to Hamburg. Bear right onto 4th Street. At third traffic light turn right onto State St.( 0ld Rte. 22 ). Proceed about one mile and turn right on the driveway into the former park, opposite the old Hamburg Center. Look for the white & red sign for Hamburg Soccer Assn. 

GPS: 3801 Old Rte.22, Hamburg

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

Saturday April 1, 2023 - Lebanon Valley Rail Trail

 easy - approximately 4 miles

We will begin our hike thru Canal Tunnel Park and visit the Old Union Canal Tunnel Historic Site. Then we will continue hiking the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail.

1st meeting place: 9:15 a.m. at Boyer’s IGA Market, 410 N. 3rd St, Womelsdorf to carpool.   Directions:  From Reading take Rte 422 West to Rte 419 and turn right. IGA will be on your  immediate left after making turn.

2nd meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at Union Canal Park, N. 25th St and Union Canal Drive, Lebanon    Directions: Rte 422W to Lebanon, turn right onto N. 12th St. Travel l/10 mile and turn left onto Lehman St. Continue to N. 25th St. and turn right for 2/10 mile. Look to left for parking lot. 

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

Saturday March 25, 2023 - Oley Valley Covered Bridges

5 easy miles

Sixth Day of Spring Hike 5 miles with an early dropout if needed. Easy flat roads. Be prepared for the wind of the valley. Wearing of the Orange is highly recommended.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Salem United Church of Christ, north end of lot by Church Road

Directions: From Jacksonwald take Oley Turnpike Road to 662. CAREFULLY go straight across 662 and continue to Covered Bridge Road. Turn left about 3/4mile to second church. 

GPS: 307 Covered Bridge Road, Oley, PA 19547 [40.362787,-75.745757] 

For more information or further directions, contact: 610-223-6952, leave voice mail for call back or 610-823-9023, leave voice mail for call back 

    

Saturday March 18, 2023 - Ironton Rail-Trail -

5.3 easy miles

A paved, loop hike with one moderate hill, through Coplay, Hokendauqua and Whitehall with some interesting cement industry and railroad artifacts along the way, including the Saylor Cement Kilns which are listed on the National Historic Register. Lunch afterwards possible.

Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at Chestnut & North Ruch Street Trailhead, Coplay (Approx. 50 min. from Temple) 

Directions: From Temple, take 222 north approx. 15 miles. Just after Rutter’s Svc Station (north of Kutztown), turn left onto Kunkel Rd. Go about 0.8 mile and turn right onto Siegfriedale Rd., follow to I-78/22 East (toward Allentown). Take right fork to stay on 22 East. Exit at PA 145 N/MacArthur Road and follow signs for Whitehall. Go about 3.5 miles to Coplay. Turn right on Center Street, left onto S. 6th, right onto Chestnut St. and continue to trailhead. [Note: To return to Reading, you take exit 45 from I-78.] 

GPS: Chestnut & North Ruch Street, Coplay 

For more information or further directions, contact: 484-284-0946

Maps here:

https://www.traillink.com/trail/ironton-rail-trail 

https://www.irontonrailtrail.org/map.html

Saturday March 11 - Lower Switchback Rail-Trail / Jim Thorpe

9 moderate miles

We will once again visit the Switchback in JT, where history and nature come together on a trail that dates back to the early 1800s when trains hauled coal from the mines to the Lehigh Canal. Starting at Mauch Chunk Lake Park, we will take the lower trail into town, enjoy lunch, then return on the same trail. There will be a steep descent and ascent into town. Bring water and snacks, along with hiking boots for the rocky and muddy sections. Rain cancels.

1st Meeting place: 8:30 a.m. at Redner's Market, 5471 Pottsville Pike, Leesport (Rt. 61 North)
2nd Meeting place: 10:00 a.m. at Mauch Chunk Lake Park

Directions: 61 north for approx. 13 miles, right onto 895 for 6.7 miles, left onto E. Railroad Ave in New Ringgold for another 6.7 miles, left onto W. Penn Pike for 2.2 miles, right onto Owl Creek Road (careful, hard to see this turn) for 8.1 miles to Mauch Chunk Lake Park Office 

GPS: 625 Lentz Trail, Jim Thorpe [40.843472, -75.805361]

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

Saturday March 4, 2023 - Gravity Trail To Egelman's

We’ll take the Gravity Trail to Kueschler’s Roost, continue to Egelman’s and then backtrack back. Not for unstable ankles; some rocky stretches. I will point out historical landmarks that I make up as I go. Cancelled for snow, cold rain. Warm rain, ok.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Antietam Lake Trailhead

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 Road and proceed to trailhead on left. 

GPS: 306 Angora Road

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

Saturday February 25, 2023 - Ontelaunee Township Road Hike

Approx. 4 miles

We'll hike on some back roads on a circle-with-hills hike. Many good views of the area. Bundle up as it may be windy at this time of year. Snow or steady rain cancels. Eating after for all who wish to go.

Meeting place: 9:30 a.m. at Redner’s to drive to hike starting point (1 mile away) 

Directions: North on Rte 61 to Leesport.

GPS: 5471 Pottsville Pike, Leesport

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

Saturday February 18, 2023 - Middle Creek Overlook Hike

Approx. 5 miles

This hike will visit two overlooks with several hills to climb to get there. Lunch at the K-Ville Hotel, 2647 Heidelberg Ave.

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

Direcvtions: 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

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

Saturday February 11, 2023 - Blue Marsh Lake

Approx. 5 moderate miles

A frosty hike along Blue Marsh Lake, varying hills. Lunch afterward, if interested, at Ganly’s Irish Pub, 500 Brownsville Road, Sinking Spring

Meeting place: 9:45 a.m. at State Hill Boat Launch parking lot

Directions: From intersection of 422/724 in Sinking Spring, travel 422 west approx 1.2 miles to Green Valley Road and turn right. Travel 2.5 miles to Brownsville Rd and turn right. Travel 0.5 mile to Boat Launch entrance on left. Travel approx. 0.75 mile to parking lot. 

GPS: 599 Brownsville Road, Wernersville [40.366057°, -76.03741°]

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