Thursday August 6, 2026 - TO BE DETERMINED

 To be determined

Saturday August 1, 2026 - NOLDE PARK

 5-6 moderate miles

There will be hills and woods!

MEET & TIME: 9:30 AM at 1000 Church Road Parking 

DIRECTIONS: Coming from Reading take Route 625, make a right at Church Road, parking is on your left after about a quarter mile (1000 Church Road). 

HIKE LEADER: Call 484-818-3813 for questions & further directions

Rain will cancel

Thursday July 30, 2026 - TO BE DETERMINED

 To be determined

Sunday July 26, 2026 - ICE CREAM BIKE/HIKE – STRUBEL- UWCHLAN RAIL TRAIL

Bike ride appoximately 14 miles. Walk is your choice of distance with group. Bike rides should take 60-80 minutes. If walking, walk for 30-40 minutes, turn around, and return.

1st MEET & TIME: CARPOOL - 12:10 PM Boscov’s East far parking lot – 4500 Perkiomen Ave., 19606 2nd MEET & TIME: 1:00 PM Struble trailhead - Shelmire & Dowlin Forge Rds., Downingtown, PA 19335

GPS: Struble trailhead - Shelmire & Dowlin Forge Rds. [40.039791, -75.706868]

ICE CREAM: Chester Springs at Milky Way Farms - 521 E. Uwchlan Ave. Chester Springs, PA 19425 

RIDE/HIKE LEADER: Call 610-334-2299 for quesIons & further direcIons.

Saturday July 25, 2026 - ONTELAUNEE TRAIL TO GRAFFITI BRIDGE

Approx. 6 miles, easy

A mostly flat & easy hike. In and out.

MEET & TIME: 9:30 AM Meet at Parking Area, Ontelaunee Lake Trails, 1599 Moselem Spring Rd, Hamburg, PA. Off SR 662.

GPS: [40.501280669643116, -75.88860515459703] 1599 Moselem Spring Rd., Hamburg

HIKE LEADER: Call 412-445-7319 for questions & further directions

Thursday July 23, 2026 - TO BE DETERMINED

 To be determined

Saturday July 18, 2026 - TRAILS OF BIRDSBORO WATERS PRESERVE HIKE & ANNUAL CLUB MEMBER PICNIC see meeting time correction

3.5 to 4 miles of moderate difficulty due to steep elevation changes

We will hike from the site of the picnic through most of the Rustic Park to get to the trails of the Birdsboro Waters Preserve – 1800-acres of woods set aside to preserve the quality of drinking water for Birdsboro residents. We will make use of the two newly built pedestrian bridges over the Hay Creek to make a loop through the trails of Preserve to get us back to Rustic Park in time for luncheon. Wear something orange, be mindful of bicyclists.

Member’s Picnic: Members please see Picnic Flyer sent for details & reservations

MEET & TIME: Correction: correct meeting time: 11:30 AM Rustic Park picnic site #2, Birdsboro

DIRECTIONS: From Reading take 176 to route 724. Turn right onto Furnace Street. Continue Straight onto Furnace St. then onto Haycreek Rd. The Park is at the end of the Road on the right. 

GPS: 1314 Haycreek Rd., Birdsboro (see directions)

HIKE LEADER: Call 484-467-8976 for questions & further directions about hike.

Thursday July 16, 2026 - TO BE DETERMINED

 Hike to be determined.

Wednesday July 15, 2026 - ICE CREAM BIKE/WALK - LEBANON VALLEY RAIL TRAIL

Bike ride appox. 13 mi. Walk your choice of distance with group. Bike rides should take 60-80 minutes. If walking, walk for 30-40 minutes, turn around, and return.

1st MEET & TIME: Call leader if you want to carpool - CARPOOL - 4:00 PM Barnes & Noble at 2751 Papermill Road, Broadcasting Square Shopping Center, Wyomissing.

2nd MEET & TIME: 5:00 PM Lebanon Valley Rail Trail 775 Norman Dr. Lebanon PA 17042

ICE CREAM: Patches Family Creamery 201 Fonderwhite Rd. Lebanon, PA 17042 

RIDE/HIKE LEADER: Call 610-334-2299 for questions & further directions

Saturday July 11, 2026 - ST. PETER’S VILLAGE TO CROW’S NEST - SEE CHANGES

Approx. 4 miles (HIKE CHANGE TO SHUTTLE HIKE)

We'll be starting at St. Peter's Village, hiking to Crow's Nest Visitor Center in the Hopewell Big Woods and back. We will meet in the parking lot north of Village Arcade (Village Arcade address is 3411 St. Peters Rd., Pottstown, PA 19465), which is a dirt parking lot just north of the town. The hike should take about 2 hours. There are two moderate hills, a creek crossing, lots of rocks to hike over and some natural springs running out of the hillsides, making for some wet/mushy trails part of the way. The hike has changed to a shuttle ending at Crow's Nest. We can have a car or two parked at the Visitor's Center and carpool back to St. Peter'sVillage. Lunch can follow at the bakery in St. Peter's Village or you can pack a lunch and enjoy the scenery outside on the picnic tables.

MEET & TIME: 9:00 AM at the large parking lot that’s north of Village - north of Village Arcade address of 3411 St. Peters Rd. Parking lot is dirt. Hike will end at Crow's Nest & we will carpool back to start.

DIRECTIONS: From Route 422 towards Pottstown, Take exit for Route 176. Take the exit for Morgantown and at the light turn left on Route 23. Continue and then turn left onto St. Peters Road. There is a sign for the Village.

GPS: Approximate location of parking lot entrance that is north of Arcade [40.18017, -75.73134] 

HIKE LEADER: Call 484-557-7854 for questions & further directions

Thursday July 9, 2026 - MUHLENBERG RAIL TRAIL

4 miles easy

Leader will take us on a 4 mile hike on the Muhlenberg Rail Trail. We will traverse the entire trail, then return. This is a flat, easy hike. Lunch with Al N. afterwards.

MEET & TIME: 10 AM at the trailhead on Mt Laurel Rd 

GPS:[40.411110, -75.918058]

DIRECTIONS: From the intersection of Routes 222 and 61, take Route 61 south toward Reading. Turn left onto Tuckerton Rd. Cross Bus 222 (5th St Highway), then turn right on 8th Ave. Go 1 block, turn left onto Mt Laurel Rd. Go straight at the traffic light at Kutztown Rd, then about 2 blocks. Turn right into the trailhead..

HIKE LEADER: Contact  610-850-1855 for questions & further information

Saturday July 4, 2026 - WELSH MOUNTAIN NATURE PRESERVE - SEE UPDATE on Meeting Place

 Please see UPDATED meeting place

Saturday July 4, 2026 – WELSH MOUNTAIN NATURE PRESERVE

5-6 miles easy to moderate. 

Multiple loops, and visit adjacent Money Rocks County Park. Will be a mostly SHADED hike.

Bring plenty of cool water and wear appropriate clothes for warm weather.

1st MEET & TIME: 9:00 AM in parking lot at Ollie’s at 2251 Lancaster Pike, Reading 19607. Arrange carpools and leave.

2nd MEET & TIME: 9:45 AM UPDATED 2nd Meeting Place: 936 Narvon Rd, Narvon, PA 17555 at MONEY ROCKS PARKING LOT (Gault Rd is CLOSED)

DIRECTIONS:  Take 422E to 176E, Take exit 2 for PA10/PA23. Take a right to Follow PA 23 going West for 4.5 mi. Make a Left onto Pool Forge Rd, Left onto US-322E, Right onto Narvon Rd and go 1.2 mile, then Right into Money Rocks County Park to parking lot. (Park entrance is directly across from Alexander Drive)

UPDATED GPS for MONEY ROCKS PARKING LOT: [40.095362, -75.981934]

Lunch afterwards at Lapp Valley Creamery 4040 Old Philadelphia Pike, Gordonville PA. 17529

HIKE LEADER: Call 610-334-2299 for questions & further directions

Thursday July 2, 2026 - 2 Hikes for July 2 - Hike B - POTTSTOWN LOCOMOTIVE HIKE! - NOTE: HIKE CANCELLED DUE TO HEAT!

NOTE: HIKE CANCELLED DUE TO HEAT

A hike will be led to see Union Pacific’s famed Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive. It will journey to the East Coast for the first time in collaboration with Norfolk Southern, as part of a historic coast-to-coast tour as both railroads celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. This locomotive will be in Pottstown on Thursday, July 2. We will meet at a trailhead on the Schuylkill River Trail and walk into Pottstown to see the locomotive that is due in at 3:00 pm (For info on this train and its journey, see up.com (Union Pacific)

A good opportunity for railroad enthusiasts to see a piece of history! Bring your cameras.

MEET: NOTE AFTERNOON TIME: 1:30 PM Universal Trailhead Parking Lot, Stowe, PA 19464 (Grosstown Road)

GPS: 40.243974, -75.690381

HIKE LEADER: Call 484-948-5084 for questions or further directions

Thursday July 2, 2026 - 2 Hikes for July 2 - Hike A - UNION CANAL

6+ miles

A hike will will be led on the Union Canal Trail from the Berks Leisure Area to Reber's Bridge Rd and return. Hikers looking for a shorter hike can turn around at any time.

MEET: 9:30 Berks Leisure Area, 1901 Tulpehocken Rd GPS coordinates are 40.3555 N,-75.9632 W.

HIKE LEADER: Call 610-750-3115 for questions and further directions

Saturday June 27, 2026 - COVENTRY WOODS

5+ miles

This hike begins at the eastern end of Coventry Woods and takes place mostly outside the park, sometimes on wooded trails and other times on shaded roads. There will be hills.

MEET & TIME: 9:45 AM at the main entrance to Coventry Woods. We will drive several miles from here to the actual starting location of the hike.

DIRECTIONS: Take Rte. 724 east from Birdsboro. About three quarters of a mile past River Bridge Rd. (The road/bridge leading to Douglassville), turn right onto Unionville Rd. All Type Fence is located at the intersection of Rte. 724 & Unionville Rd. Follow Unionville Rd. 2.1 miles past Temple Church and Shenkel Church. Turn right at St. Peter’s Rd., then after about half a mile turn left into Coventry Woods (Fernbrook Lane is to the right). Parking is just over the crest of the hill.

GPS: [40.215773, -75.709315]

HIKE LEADER: contact 610-850-1855 for information & questions

Thursday June 25, 2026 - Thursday Wanderers - TRAIL ANGELS EVENT

 More details to follow for members at a later date

Sunday June 21, 2026 - ICE CREAM HIKE - WERNERSVILLE HIKE

4 easy Miles

We will hike the grounds of Phoebe Berks and Wernersville Borough. Ending with ice cream treats at The Cone in Wernersville. 

Heavy rain cancels hike

MEET & TIME: 4:00 PM at Phoebe in front parking lot at 4pm

DIRECTIONS: Take Route 422 west from Sinking Spring. As Wernersville is approached (Red Plate Diner on the left) turn right into Phoebe Berks. Bear left up the hill, then turn left before reaching the apartments into the parking area overlooking Route 422. Park in spaces away from the building.

GPS: Address: 1 Reading Drive, Wernersville 19565. Phoebe Berks parking lot overlooking Rte. 422 - approximate [40.32910, -76.07182]

HIKE LEADER: contact 484-818-3813 for information & questions

Saturday June 20 - 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.

MEET & TIME: 9:30 AM at Holl’s Trailhead off Highland Road. 

DIRECTIONS: From State Hill Road turn Left onto Brownsville Road. Continue for 1.7 miles until reaching Spitler’s Collision and turn RIGHT onto Highland Road. The road is not maintained and very rutty. The Trailhead is about 0.2 miles on Highland Road on RIGHT.

Heavy rain will cancel. 

GPS: [40.36574, -76.06190] approximate!

HIKE LEADER: contact 484-557-7854 for information & questions

Thursday June 18, 2026 - AUBURN SECTION OF SCHUYLKILL RIVER TRAIL

We will trek an easy in and out hike on the Auburn section of the Schuylkill river AKA Bartram Trail.  If we hike to the Berks County Line, the hike should be 5 to 6 miles.  Since this is an in and out, there's the opportunity to turn around at any time.  PLEASE LET THE LEADER KNOW.  There are very slight hills but not many of them.  The new bridge is beautiful, the river can be seen at times; but it's a rail to trail so some may find it boring.  (I don't).

2nd leader will be leading a shortened version of this hike.

MEET & TIME: 9:30 A.M. at The Auburn trailhead.  2033 Market St, Auburn.   No facilities

DIRECTIONS:  Rt 61 North at first traffic light in Deer Lake, turn right then left on Route 895.  Look for Dollar General on your right at 2 miles.  Driveway to trail head is on the right before the bridge..

HIKE LEADER: Call 610-603-6876 with questions or further directions

Saturday June 13, 2026 - WYOMISSING PARK

Approx. 4 miles – Easy to moderate

Enjoy a summer walk through Wyomissing Park along Museum grounds and beyond.

MEET & TIME: 9:30am at the 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

HIKE LEADER: contact 610-698-6784 for questions & further directions

Thursday June 11, 2026 - Thursday Wanderers - SCHUYLKILL RIVER TRAIL - TOWPATH PARK

3+ miles

Enjoy a nice summer 3+- walk with hike leader from Towpath Park to Frick’s Lock and return. There are both sunny and shady areas along the trail, so dress prepared for the weather. Rest rooms are found at each end of the hike. Please bring a lunch to enjoy in the shady grove at Towpath Park after the hike. For those who wish, option to walk further along the trail before turning around. Call if weather looks iffy.

1st MEET & TIME: 9:30 AM Boscov’s East to carpool

2nd MEET & TIME: 10:00 A.M. at Towpath Park, address is 1675 New Schuylkill Road, Pottstown, PA 19465.

DIRECTIONS: From route 422, take Kenilworth exit and make a left turn onto route 724 East.

Drive approximately .8 mile and look for the brown colored Towpath Park sign on the left. In the Park, we will meet at the 1st parking lot on the right.

HIKE LEADER: Contact  484-877-3340 for questions or further directions

Saturday June 6, 2026 - THERMAN MADEIRA AND JOHN BARTRAM TRAILS

4-6 miles, easy

We will start at the Kernsville Dam parking area and take the Therman Madeira Trail to the Hamburg playground and back.  If agreeable we can then do an In-Out hike on the John Bartram trail.  Weather conditions and snow on the ground will determine the length of this hike.  Wear warm clothes and plan to be flexible.  Lunch location will be determined on the day of the hike.  Snow and/or rain will cancel the hike.

MEET & TIME: 10:00 am - Kernsville Dam Parking lot at 25 Kernsville Dam Road, Hamburg PA 19526

DIRECTIONS: From Route 61 N, turn right at Jetson Drive, right at Industrial Drive, left at Kernsville Dam Road. You will see the parking area on your right.

GPS: [40.56237, -75.99474] approximate GPS, go into parking lot on right

HIKE LEADER: Suzanne Churgai 717-376-5289 for questions & further directions

Thursday June 4 - Thursday Wanderers - NEVERSINK MOUNTAIN LAUREL

4-5 difficult miles

Leader will take group for a hike up the Neversink glen when mountain laurel is likely to be in full bloom. We will try to hit sections of the mountain with much mountain laurel. Some steep hills.

1st MEET & TIME: 9:45 am Boscov’s East in the far front corner of the parking lot 

2nd MEET & TIME: 10:00 am at the Klapperthal Trailhead. Tight, limited parking here. 

HIKE LEADER: contact 610-850-1855 for information & questions

Wednesday June 3 , 2026 - MINIATURE GOLF OUTING AT SCHELL'S

Come join us for some fun rounds of miniature golf. Lowest score gets a free ice cream! We can enjoy ice cream or burgers at Schell’s afterwards

MEET & TIME: 6:30 PM, Schell’s Miniature Golf, 4625 North Fifth Street Highway, Temple 19560

GPS: [40.40435, -75.92753]

EVENT LEADERS: contact 610-223-6952 or 610-823-9023 for information & questions

Saturday May 30, 2026 - MIDDLECREEK OVERLOOK HIKE

Approx. 5 miles moderate

Leader will take the group on a approximate 5-mile hike at Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. This hike will visit three overlooks with several hills to climb to get there.    

MEET& TIME: 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

HIKE LEADER: contact 717-949-2056 for more information & questions

Thursday May 28, 2026 - Thursday Wanderers - OREN HOLL LOOP

4 miles

Hike leader will  take  us on the OREN HOLL MEMORIAL LOOP. This is an approx. 4 mile very hilly hike. 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. Heavy rain will cancel. 

MEET & TIME: 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 in on the RIGHT.

HIKE LEADER: Contact Cell: 484-557-7854 with questions or further directions

Saturday May 23, 2026 - TOM LOWE TRAIL - HIKE CANCELED TODAY

NOTE: HIKE TODAY CANCELED DUE TO RAINY CONDITIONS ALL DAY

Approx. 5 miles

Hike the Tom Lowe trail. This will take you to the ridge of the Blue Mountains so there is a hill to climb.

MEET & TIME: 9:30 AM – State Game Lands 110, Shartlesville Parking Area

DIRECTIONS: From Old Route 22 in Shartlesville, take Forge Dam Rd. toward the I78 interchange, continue past I78 on Forge Dam Rd and stay left on Forge Dam Rd at the 'Y' where Mountain Rd goes to the right.  Continue for 1.5 Miles to the parking area. Wear Orange

GPS: State Game Lands 110 Shartlesville Parking Area [40.537925, -76.12385]

HIKE LEADER: contact 610-944-5775 (W) or 484-880-8140 (C) for questions & further directions

Additional Note from leader: Wet areas, wear waterproof/resistant boots & bring poles in case needed.

Thursday May 21, 2026 - Thursday Wanderers - WILDWOOD PARK HARRISBURG

4.5 miles

1st LEAD HIKER will trek a moderate approximate 4.5 mile hike at Wildwood Park in Harrisburg, PA. The 3 mile loop has slight hills with blacktop and pathway mix surfaces. There are also broadwalks through the marsh/wetlands (1.25 miles). The park is surrounded by industry and major highways. This will not be a quiet walk in the woods but it's a very interesting place. We will see Art in the Wild while hiking. The works of art are composed of mostly natural materials to blend with Wildwood’s natural setting. The Olewine Nature Center will be the start/end of the hike. There are interesting exhibits and a wildlife observation deck. Optional lunch at the Front Street Diner

2nd Lead Hiker will lead a shortened version of this hike to be determined on the hike. Mapquest has the traveling time as an hour from Reading and 30 minutes from Fredericksburg.

1st MEET & TIME: 9:30 AM at the Fredericksburg Redners. 2975 US-22, Fredericksburg, PA 17026 DIRECTIONS: Rt 183 North to Interstate 78 West, exit Fredericksburg to Route 22. Redners is a mile or 2 on the right (next to Esthers)

2nd MEET & TIME at Visitor Center: 10 AM 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, PA 17110

DIRECTIONS: Interstate 78 to Interstate 81, Rt 22 East, R on Wildwood Park Dr which turns into Industrial Road, 1.2 miles Right on Wildwood Way

HIKE LEADER: contact 610 603-6876 for information & questions

Saturday May 16, 2026 - NEVERSINK HIKE - ST LAWRENCE TRAIL

Approx. 4-5 miles

Leader will start on the St. Lawrence Trail Park at 26th and Fairview hopefully passing blooming Mountain Laurel proceeding to the McIlvain Pavilion, commonly known as the “Witch’s Hat” and to the Rock Quarry Overlook. We will go from there to the Upper Glenn Trail down to Jacks Loop and back up. We will take the East Ridge Trail to get back to where we parked. There will be two steep long hills with one being rocky. Bring poles and wear hiking boots. Pack some snacks to eat at the “Witches Hat” on top! 

NOTE: Heavy or annoying steady light rain cancels since we will hike over rocks in part of the hike.

MEET & TIME: 9:30AM at 26th and Fairview – park on residential street parking. 

DIRECTIONS: From Reading travel east on Perkiomen Ave into Mount Penn and turn right onto 26th Street. Find an available parking spot.

From Exeter travel west on Perkiomen Avenue and go past intersection at McDonald’s in Mount Penn. Turn left onto 26th Street right after you pass the Car Wash.

GPS: 26th Street and Fairview Avenue, Mount Penn 19606

HIKE LEADER: contact 610-505-9397 for questions & further directions 

Thursday May 14 - Thursday Wanderers - ROARING CREEK

5 1⁄2 miles

First Leader will lead a hike of about 5.5 miles in the Roaring Creek Valley watershed. Three lakes adjoin an 8 mile trail that runs from Route 42 to Route 54. We begin from Route 42, then veer off onto a side trail that takes us to one end of the mile long middle lake. We return via the main trail. The main trail is a relatively flat walk on a wide trail at the base of two mountains, somewhat similar to Gold Mine Rd. The veer off will be on a wooded trail with ups and downs.

Second Leader will lead a shortened 4 mile version of this hike taking the main trail in and out. Bring lunch. We will eat someplace along the trail Inclement weather will cause this hike to be deferred, and a hike at Blue Marsh will be substituted.

1st MEET & TIME: 8:30 AM at Church Road off Route 183. From here there will be a drive of about 1 hour 15 minutes to reach the starting point.

2nd MEET & TIME: 10 AM Route 42 trailhead.

DIRECTIONS: Take Route 61 north through Pottsville, Frackville, and Ashland. When reaching the bottom of the hill in Centralia, continue straight onto Route 42. Pass through Aristes and pass the Weiser State Forest Office. Toward the bottom of a long steep drive to the valley floor, the trailhead is to the left a block or two before the bottom of the mountain.

GPS: 40.837126, -76.355437

HIKE LEADERS: 1st Leader 610-850-1855 or 2nd Leader 484-877-3340 for more information or questions

Saturday May 9, 2026 - GRING’S MILL RECREATION AREA

Approx. 4 to 5 miles

We will hike the Union Canal Trail. We can go as far as we want and then turn around.

MEET & TIME: 9:30 AM at the Gring’s Mill parking lot.

DIRECTIONS: From Route 183 north, use the right lane to merge onto US-222 S via the ramp to Lancaster. Take Broadcasting Rd exit. Turn left onto Broadcasting Rd. Turn right onto Tulpehocken Rd the parking lot will be on your left.From Route 222 take the Papermill Rd exit. Turn right onto Berkshire Rd, at the T turn left onto Tulpehocken Rd. Parking lot is on the right.

Heavy rain would cancel the hike. We can do lunch at Ganly’s if anyone is interested?

GPS: 2083 Tulpehocken Road, Wyomissing, 19610 [40.3615668, -75.9717171]

HIKE LEADER: contact 610-587-9260 for information or questions

Thursday May 7, 2026 - Thursday Wanderers - LANDINGVILLE

4 miles

Our Leader will hike the Landingville Marsh Trail, a flat loop trail alongside the Schuylkill River that includes part of the John Bartram Trail and the foundation for the oldest transportation tunnel in the country. We will then use a little traveled road to the village of Landingville and return via the John Bartram trail. Hike will be around 4 miles; however, we can take the Marsh Trail to add some distance. There were facilities in the village in the past; I don’t know if they’re currently open.

1st MEET & TIME: 9:30 Hamburg Walmart at the South East section, off of Route 61 north of Hamburg. Turn left at traffic light at the Wawa after Interstate 78.

2nd MEET & TIME: Trailhead at 10:00

DIRECTIONS (TO TRAILHEAD): North on 61, West on 895 towards Auburn. Right on Hickory Dr (at the Dollar General), bear left at first Y, left left unto Tunnel Road (3rd left), Trail head on the right.

HIKE LEADER: contact: 610 603-6876 for further directions & questions

Saturday May 2, 2026 - THE LOCKS AND BRIDGES OF LEESPORT

 4 to 5 easy to moderate miles

A history hike around Leesport and vicinity. We will see canal locks 36, 37, and 38, the "new" bridge replacing the original Althouse covered bridge (1820's and 1850's), the lock tender's house which should be open to the public, and the remains of the Leesport Furnace. The hike is on both trails and roads. Rain cancels this hike. Hikers' choice for lunch afterwards. 

MEET & TIME: 9:30 AM at the parking lot behind Schuylkill Valley Library

DIRECTIONS: From Reading take route 61 north to Leesport, make a left onto Wall Street (Turkey Hill is on the 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 Street then make an immediate right onto Washington Street (soon changes name to Washington Road). Look for the library about 1/10 of a mile on your right. 

GPS: 1310 Washington Road

HIKE LEADERS: Contact 610-921-3252 or 610-451-5380 on the morning of the hike for questions or information

Thursday April 30, 2026 - HOPEWELL LAKE & HISTORIC SITE

3 to 4 miles

Leader #1 will lead a fairly easy hike from Hopewell Lake Boat Launch to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site and return.

Leader #2 will lead a longer version of this hike with the aim of starting with and ending with those doing the shorter hike.

MEET & TIME: 10:00 A.M. at Hopewell Lake Boat Launch, 1200 Park Road, Elverson PA

DIRECTIONS: From Route 724/Main St. in Birdsboro, turn right onto Route 345/S Chestnut St., travel 4.3 miles and turn right onto Park Road. Drive another 1.6 miles and look for the boat launch road and turn left.

HIKE LEADERS: Contact LEADER #1 484-877-3340 or LEADER #2 610-850-1855 for more information or further directions

NOTE:

It has been pointed out that Route 724 is closed for months beginning this week while a bridge is being reconstructed. This possibly affects those of you headed to Hopewell tomorrow from Shillington and Route 422 from Reading if you exit at Route 176.

The work around could simply be to use the road past the former Naomi Hotel and the Beidler House. Otherwise, taking the Route 422 bypass till it ends, then turning at West 47th St (just before Exeter Restaurant) to reach Route 724 is probably the alternative.

The group can compare notes after we get to the hike.

Saturday April 25, 2026 - TRAIN RIDE TO PHILLY -HISTORIC HIKE WITH POSSIBLE ITALIAN MARKET VISIT

5+ miles

Enjoy a train ride from the Norristown Transit Center into the “City of Brotherly Love” with an enjoyable walking tour of Historic Areas of Philadelphia and an optional side walk to parts of the Italian Market in South Philly. Dress in comfortable clothes and very comfortable shoes for walking on pavements. This trip is rain or shine, so bring rain gear if the weather forecast is drops! There may be things you may want to purchase in the Italian Market & bring something portable to carry them in. (collapsible bags that fit in your purse work great) We’ll eat lunch somewhere in Center City, possibly EMei on Arch Street.

COSTS: $11.00 each way on SEPTA Regional Rail from Norristown Saturday fare for SEPTA train ride; pay for ride on train (price subject to change) if obtained day of trip. You can use contactless payment with a credit card. If you have a SEPTA Key Card, it is 8.00 each way. You need a SEPTA Senior Card for free fare on SEPTA. Parking in Regional Rail Outside Parking Lot at Station should be free on Saturday unless SEPTA changes their policy. High rise parking lot charges fee.

MEET & TIME: 7:00 AM, Boscov’s East Parking lot (east end of lot), Bus. Rt. 422 East, Exeter Twp, where we will car-pool to the Norristown Transit Center to take the train. We will meet around 4:30 -5 pm to take the train back to Norristown unless another time is decided by the group on the day of the trip.  

DIRECTIONS: Driving directions to the train station, maps of Philadelphia and the schedule of train departures and arrivals will be provided on the day of the trip at Boscov's meeting spot. 

GPS: Boscov’s East 4500 Perkiomen Ave, Reading [40.30877, -75.86749]                                       Norristown Transit Center Parking Lot [40.11254, -75.34446]

LEADER: Contact 610-823-9023 for questions & further directions

Thursday April 23, 2026 - Thursday Wanderers - BLUE MARSH at CHURCH RD

6 miles in-out

Leader will hike a 6mile in-out from Church Rd to Mt Pleasant.The trail has several open fields and several hills. It will take us to a bridge on Route 183 

MEET& TIME: 9:30 AM. at Church Rd trailhead

DIRECTIONS: Take Route 183 North. Pass the Blue Marsh Restaurant. In about 2.5 miles -Turn Left onto Old Church Road. The parking lot is on the left.

HIKE LEADER: Contact 484-557-7854 for questions & information

Saturday April 18, 2025 - POTSVILLE"S FAMOUS YUENGLING TOUR & HIKE

4-mile town hike, easy

Join leader for a free tour of the Yuengling Brewery followed by a hike in Pottsville. We will pass by the famous Yuengling Mansion. The brewery also has a nice gift shop for those doing memento shopping. We will also go to the tasting room to sample some of the beers! (may be a small cost) This hike is always a relaxing change of scenery. Dress appropriately for the weather – layered. We will have lunch afterwards traveling back to Berks, possibly at Carmello’s Italian Delight in Orwigsburg .

1st MEET & TIME: 10:00 AM - Redner’s Warehouse Market Leesport, Rt. 61N.  Leesport (Recommended Meet up)                                                                                                                   

Leesport Redner’s GPS: [40.44374, -75.95128] (5471 Pottsville Pike, Leesport)

2nd MEET & TIME: 10:45 AM - Pottsville’s Yuengling Brewery - 5TH & Mahantongo Sts., Pottsville Meet near gift shop entrance so we go in together for the tour.

Yuengling GPS: [40.68309, -76.19780] (GPS address of Yuengling Gift Shop at 420 Mahantongo St.) 

DIRECTIONS: RECOMMEND TO FOLLOW DIRECTIONS FROM REDNER’s TO YUENGLING’S:    From Redner’s Warehouse Market Leesport, Follow 61 North for 26.6 miles

In Pottsville from 61 North: Take a Left onto E. Union St., then take a Right on S. Centre St., make a Left on Mahantongo St., make a Right onto 5th St., go past brewery’s gift shop building and make a Right into the free brewery tour parking lot that is on 5th St. just past W. Norwegian St.

HIKE LEADER: Contact 610-223-6952 for questions & further directions

Thursday April 16, 2026 - Thursday Wanderers - Hamburg Reservoir to Appalachian Trail

6+ difficult miles

Leader will take hikers on a 6+ mile hike from the Hamburg Reservoir parking lot, up the blue trail, west on the AT, then on the Upper Firebreak trail. When the Upper Firebreak trail returns to the Pinnacle Trail, the hike retraces the start of the hike. The first 2 miles are uphill as is a portion of the Upper Firebreak trail. Consider this a difficult hike.

MEET & TIME: 9:30 at the Hamburg reservoir

DIRECTIONS: From Route 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 Rd, Hamburg

HIKE LEADER: Contact 610-850-1855 for more information or further directions

Saturday April 11, 2026 - BLUE MARSH FROM CHURCH ROAD TO MT PLEASANT

6 miles in & out

The trail has several open fields and several hills.  It will take us to a bridge on Route 183.

MEET & TIME: 9:30 AM at Blue Marsh Lake Old Church Road Trailhead 

DIRECTIONS: Take Route 183 North. Pass the Blue Marsh Restaurant. In about 2.5 miles -Turn Left onto Old Church Road. The parking lot is on the left.

GPS:   Blue Marsh Lake Old Church Road Trailhead

NOTE: Heavy snow or rain will cancel this hike.  Wear orange during hunting season.

HIKE LEADER: Contact 484-557-7854 with questions & further directions

Thursday April 9, 2026 - Thursday Wanderers - BLUE MARSH at STILLING BASIN

4-6 miles In and Out 

Leader will hike the trail from the Stilling Basin towards the Red Bridge. This is an easy 4-6 mile in-out. WEAR ORANGE TO BE SAFE Heavy snow or rain will cancel

MEET: 9:30 AM. at Stilling Basin -Upper lot near the basin 

GPS: 40.37765,-76.02582

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

HIKE LEADER: Contact 484-557-7854 for questions & further information

Saturday April 4, 2026 - MUHLENBERG RAIL TRAIL

 Approx. 4 easy miles 

We will start at the southern terminus of the trail for this out and back hike. Lunch afterwards at Pizza Como. 

MEET & TIME: 10:00 AM Trailhead parking lot across from 3137 Montrose Ave. 

DIRECTIONS: From 5th Street Highway/Business 222 in Muhlenberg turn onto Elizabeth Ave, after crossing Kutztown Rd., continue following Elizabeth Ave until it intersects with Montrose Ave. Turn right and go approximately 0.3 mile. Parking is on the right. 

HIKE LEADERS: Contact (610) 334-2299 for questions & further directions. 

Thursday April 2, 2026 - Thursday Wanderers - ONTELAUNEE LAKE

 Leader #1 will lead a 4-5 mile road hike near Ontelaunee Lake. This hike begins at Kindt's Corner, takes the road to the graffiti bridge, crosses it, and continues on the road till we turn around and retrace our steps. We will have many views of the lake. This is a flat hike on roads, no need for poles.

Leader #2 will lead a shortened version of this hike with the aim of starting with and ending with those doing the longer hike.

MEET: 10 AM Kindt's Corner GPS: [40.461733, -75.932224]

DIRECTIONS: Taking Route 61 north, pass Route 73, turn right at the Sheetz onto Ashley Way. Go to the Stop sign at Ontelaunee Drive, turn left. Take the first right onto Kindt's Corner Rd. Continue about 2/3 mile to the parking area on the right. Shoemakersville Rd is to the left.

HIKE LEADER: Contact Leader #1 610-850-1855 or Leader #2 484-877-3340 for questions

Saturday March 28, 2026 - MT PENN PRESERVE (ANTIETAM LAKE)

– 4-5 miles, moderate

A meandering hike starting at Angora trailhead and using a variety of trails to reach the FireTower, then a variety to head back. Some hills are rocky but most of the hike will be spent walking through the woods. It won't be one straight climb.

MEET & TIME: 9:30am – Angora Trailhead at bend across from lake at Antietam Lake Park 

Address: 230 Angora Road, Reading, 19606

DIRECTIONS: Take Carsonia Avenue from Mt. Penn to Stony Creek Mills. At stop sign at end of Carsonia Ave. bear a slight left onto Antietam Road. Halfway up the hill take a left onto Angora Road which follows around the lake. Go 0.3 miles and take a left onto trailhead parking lot at the bend in the road. (at 230 Angora Rd.)

GPS: 230 Angora Road [40.35632, -75.87400 APPROXIMATE)

CONTACT HIKE LEADER AT: 610-505-9397 for questions & further directions

Thursday March 26, 2026 - Thursday Wanderers - MEMORIAL LAKE STATE PARK

4-5 Miles  

Leader take us on a 4-to-5-mile hike around Memorial Lake State Park. We will do most of the trails and a little used road to circle the lake. The trail may be muddy at spots.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. at Middle Road at Memorial Lake State Park. NOTE: Snow or Ice or super high winds will cancel this hike.

DIRECTIONS TO PARK: Take I78 to South I81, exit 85, north on PA 934 to left on Asher Miner Road (at restaurant/gas station), first left on Boundary Road. There will be a sign for Middle Road on the left.

HIKE LEADER: contact 610-603 -6876 with any questions or information.

Saturday March 21, 2026 - MIDDLE CREEK

– 5-6 miles, moderate

Join Mark for a scenic walk at Middle Creek in the lovely March weather. Rain or snow cancels.

MEET & TIME: 9:30am – 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, travel 2 miles to the Visitors Center.

GPS: 100 Museum Road, Stevens 17578

CONTACT HIKE LEADER AT: 484-818-3813 for questions & further directions

Thursday March 19, 2026 - Thursday Wanderers - HIBERNIA COUNTY PARK

Approx. 6-7 miles

We will travel trails at historic Hibernia Park in the blustery March 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, ironmaster’s home from the 19th Century, to visit while we are there. Play it safe—wear orange. 

1st MEET: 9:15am at Livingood Park

GPS: 14 Parkside Drive, Elverson 40.15431 -75.83611 

2nd MEET: 10:00am at Hibernia County Park

GPS: 1 Park Road, Coatesville 40.02675 -75.84941 

DIRECTIONS:                                                                                                                                                  From Livingood Park: From Livingood Park head towards PA-82/ S Chestnut St by making a right onto S Chestnut St. and go for 2.4 miles. Continue to follow PA-82 by turning right and going 4.9 miles. Turn right onto Hibernia Rd and go 2.1 miles. Turn right onto Cedar Knoll Rd. and go 0.5 miles. Turn left onto Park Rd. and go 0.4 miles. Turn right to stay on Park Rd, look for parking at 1 Park Rd.

NOTE: Snow, ice, or heavy rain cancels hike.

HIKE LEADER: Contact 610-223-6952 for any questions

Sunday March 15, 2026 - BCHC SUNDAY AFTERNOON MOVIE

See BCHC club flyer for details on place and time of movie showing. Join us for a fun time!

Bring something to share!

Contact 610-823-9023 or 610-223-6952 for any questions.

Saturday March 14, 2026 - WARWICK COUNTY PARK

– 4-5 miles, moderate

There will be a few hills on this hike through hardwood forests, meadows, and the French Creek. These woodlands provided timber used to make charcoal for the region's iron furnaces and forges in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Inn at St. Peter's Village is a nearby choice for lunch. Wear Orange

MEET & TIME: 9:30 am – at the parking lot of Warwick County Park

DIRECTIONS: Address: 191 County Park Rd., Pottstown, PA 19465 - Take I-176 South to Morgantown, proceed East on Route 23 approximately 9 miles to Warwick village. Turn right on County Park Road (between houses in the village). Proceed 1/4 mile to park entrance on the left. 

GPS: 40.16825, -75.71844

CONTACT HIKE LEADER AT:  610-750-3115 for questions & further directions

Saturday March 7, 2026 - MIIDLE CREEK OVERLOOK HIKE

– 5 miles, moderate

Mike will lead about a 5 mile hike at Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. This hike will visit two overlooks with several hills to climb to get there. Maybe the Snow Geese will be here. Lunch at the Kville Hotel.

MEET & TIME: 10:00 am – 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

CONTACT HIKE LEADER AT:  717-949-2056 for questions & further directions

Saturday February 28 - BLUE MARSH: STARTING AT THE STILLING BASIN

– 4-mile loop, easy to moderate

We’ll hike the Dog Lake and Switchback Trails for some winter exercise.

MEET & TIME: 9:30 am – at the Stilling Basin Upper Lot that’s 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 make a right into the Stilling Basin entrance. Wear Orange

GPS: Approximate address: 1200 Palisades Drive (NOTE: 1280 Palisades Drive is the Main Visitor Entrance, not the Stilling Basin) Leesport 19533 [40.378334, -76.03182, approximate]

CONTACT HIKE LEADER AT: 484-557-7854 for questions & further directions

Saturday February 21, 2026 - HIKE UPDATE - MUHLENBERG RAIL TRAIL replacement hike - Pinnacle Hike is cancelled

Previously listed hike is cancelled by leader. See replacement hike below for Saturday:

– 4 miles, plowed and paved

We will lead a 4-mile hike on the Muhlenberg Rail Trail. This is a flat walk from one end to the other, then retrace our steps. Hikers can turn around early if they like. The rail to trail has been plowed by the township and should be walkable. Bring ice walkers just in case but we will probably not need them.

MEET & TIME: 10:00 am – at the trailhead on Mt Laurel Rd, about 1110 Mt Laurel Rd, Temple. 

DIRECTIONS: From Route 61 and the Laureldale Cemetery, take Tuckerton Rd towards North 5th St (Route 222). Continue on Tuckerton Rd across Route 222. After a couple of blocks, turn right onto either 7th Ave or 8th Ave. Go one block then turn left onto Mt Laurel Rd. Cross Kutztown Rd, proceed 1-2 blocks, and the trailhead is on the right.

Going north on Kutztown Road from Reading: Take Kutztown Road going north, make a right onto Mount Laurel Road (Tlacuani mexican restaurant is on the far-right corner of the intersection), proceed 1-2 blocks, and the trailhead is on the right.

 GPS: 40.411149, -75.918062 (this is approximate)

CONTACT LEADER: 610-223-6952 or 610-823-9023 for questions & further directions

Saturday February 14, 2026 - WYOMISSING PARK

 – 5-miles, easy 

Take a relaxing & pleasant walk around Wyomissing Park with Nan. Lunch afterwards at Morning Fuel.

MEET & TIME: 9:30 am – at the Soccer Field Parking lot behind the WaWa on Lancaster Ave.

Directions: From Business Route 222 and 724 in Shillington, travel west on Route 222. After about 1/2 mile, pass the Wawa, take the first right turn, then right again into the soccer field parking area.

GPS: 40.306236, -75.977247

CONTACT HIKE LEADER AT: 610-927-7525 for questions & further directions

Saturday February 7 - FRENCH CREEK / SCOTT'S RUN - CANCELLATION UPDATE

HIKE TODAY IS CANCELLED DUE TO TEMPERATURE & WIND CONDITIONS

 – 5.5 miles, moderate to strenuous

This hike begins at Scott's Run Lake and includes sections of the Horseshoe, Boone, Kalmia, 6 Penny, and Lenape trails. We will be hiking French Creek north of Scott's Run Lake and have several hill climbs. Rain, snow, or bad roads cancel this hike. Wear Orange

MEET & TIME: 10:00am at Scott’s Run Lake

DIRECTIONS: Take Route 345 south from Birdsboro. After passing Shed Rd to the left, take the next right turn onto Park Rd. From Park Rd take the second right turn onto Scott's Run Rd. The first left turn takes you to the Scott's Run Lake parking area.

GPS: 40.209358, -75.795860

CONTACT HIKE LEADER AT: 610-850-1855 for questions & further directions