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SPRING INTO ACTION AT 22 AREA DESTINATIONS By Lori McLaughlin
April has finally arrived. The weather’s warming and the urge to abandon the couch and be outside is stronger than ever. Here in the Lehigh Valley, we have so many recreation options to explore. Whether you enjoy biking, hiking, boating, wildlife, geology or just want to take in the view, there’s a wild, wonderful place not far away. We’ve gathered 22 to get you started. Photo by Kenneth P. Volpe
$12 F OR 12 IS SUE S s ub s cr ibe t oda y or v ie w t he en t ir e is sue online a t lehigh va lle y s t y le . c om
GO FOR
ththee View
GO FOR HAWK 8+ MILES MOUNTAIN SANCTUARY
BAKE OVEN 0.8 KNOB MILES
EASY TO CHALLENGING
MODERATE
This 2,600-acre wildlife sanctuary atop Hawk Mountain in northern Berks County is a family favorite. A mile-long hike up a rocky ridge to the North Lookout rewards visitors with a 200-degree panoramic view that stretches for 70 miles. April 1 marks the start of migration for the 155 species of raptors that pass by the outcropping each spring. Staff and volunteers are on hand through May 15 to count the birds and will gladly help visitors spot and identify hawks, ospreys and eagles.
The highest point in Lehigh County attracts hikers and nature lovers alike for its amazing Valley views. From a boulder-strewn ridge on the Blue Mountain, farmlands and forest spread out to the south as far as the eye can see. In the spring it’s not unusual to have migratory hawks sail by at eye level. To get there from the parking lot requires a short walk down a path filled with rocks. Take your time—they don’t call it Rocksylvania for nothing.
EVENT:
Take the family on a guided hike, make a birdhouse out of recycled materials and enjoy a “delicious earth cookie creation” at Hawk Mountain’s Earth Day Celebration on April 25. 1700 Hawk Mountain Rd., Kempton hawkmountain.org
Bake Oven Rd., Germansville alltrails.com
ththee Wildlife
TREXLER 18 NATURE MILES PRESERVE
EASY TO CHALLENGING General Harry Trexler would be pleased to know the game sanctuary he established long ago lives on, and the herds of bison and elk he sought to protect are still thriving at the nature preserve that bears his name. With the Lehigh Valley Zoo right in the middle of things, there’s no shortage of wildlife up in Schnecksville. Today, the nature preserve offers a network of trails for almost any activity or fitness level, through hemlock forests, hills, meadows—even a covered bridge. Don’t miss driving through the Jordan Creek in your car. Game Preserve Rd., Schnecksville lehighcounty.org
KEY Walk/Run Hike Bike Boat Paddleboard Fish Horseback Riding Swim Picnic Dog-friendly Handicap Accessible Cost
PEACE VALLEY PARK AND NATURE 14 MILES CENTER
EASY TO MODERATE A Bucks County hot spot for bird watching year round, Peace Valley Park is especially renowned in the birding world for the migrating waterfowl that fly in during the spring and fall. The birds are happy to share the park’s centerpiece, Lake Galena, with boaters, kayaks and paddleboards (rentals available). Landlubbers can enjoy several well-maintained trails throughout the 1,500-acre park, including a paved trail around the entire lake.
EVENT:
Get outdoors and support environmental education at Peace Valley Nature Center’s Wild Things Trail Fun Run on April 18. The course follows fields, forests and includes stream crossings. Read: mud. Register at peacevalleynaturecenter.org. 264 Creek Rd. New Britain Township buckscounty.org
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GO FOR GO FOR
ththee geology RINGING ROCKS PARK 0.8 BUSHKILL 2+ MILES FALLS MILES EASY TO MODERATE You may have heard about the musical boulder field known as Ringing Rocks, or maybe you went there as a kid. It’s worth a trip to this three-acre, glaciercreated phenomenon. Bring a hammer and be prepared to smack some big rocks silly. Good shoes and a good sense of balance are also helpful as the boulders may be slippery. Spoiler alert: not all the rocks ring, but the fun is in finding the ones that do. A quick walk down a side trail brings you to Bucks County’s largest waterfall. Ringing Rocks Rd., Upper Black Eddy buckscounty.org
EASY TO CHALLENGING Nestled high up in the Poconos, the “Niagara of Pennsylvania” boasts eight waterfalls. The largest is the Main Falls, where the Bushkill Creek does a dramatic drop over a 100-foot cliff into a deep pool before continuing downstream along a boulder-strewn gorge. Scenic trails and bridges crisscross the creek and offer views of the falls from varying angles. Hikes over natural pathways are as short as 15 minutes or as long as two-plus hours. Family-friendly activities at nearby Twin Lakes include mini golf, paddleboats and fishing. Bushkill Falls Rd., Bushkill visitbushkillfalls.com
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ththee Water
LEASER LAKE
4
MILES
EVENT: Join the Friends of Beltzville
MODERATE In far northwest Lehigh County lies a glittering gem of a lake. It’s not very big, but Leaser Lake is quiet and peaceful and perfect for a paddle around the shore or the island in the middle. Kayaks, canoes and paddleboards (rentals available) can access the lake from all three parking lots; launch ramps for small electric-motor boats are on the north and east side lots. With benches and picnic areas everywhere, there’s no excuse not to linger. Pick up deli sandwiches and drinks from nearby Wanamakers General Store. 8502 Pleasure Ct., New Tripoli lehighcounty.org
BELTZVILLE STATE PARK 15+ MILES
EASY TO CHALLENGING Beltzville State Park is a boater’s paradise. Just east of Lehighton, the park’s 949-acre lake welcomes most types of recreational boats, with no horsepower limit on motors. Kayaks, canoes and other non-motorized craft (rentals available) will find calmer water in the lake’s “no-wake” zones: Pine Run Cove and east of the Preachers Camp launch. Paddle down one of the long, winding arms to get up close to wildlife, perhaps wading birds, eagles or turtles sunning on a log.
on April 18 for their Earth Day 50th Anniversary Celebration. Hikes and other activities are planned throughout the day. 2950 Pohopoco Dr., Lehighton dcnr.pa.gov beltzvillestateparkfriends
NOCKAMIXON STATE PARK
13.5 MILES
EASY TO MODERATE Take a trip to Nockamixon on a sunny, breezy afternoon and the lake is filled with sailboats, catamarans and windsurfers. Most days, the 1,450-acre Lake Nockamixon buzzes with all forms of watersports, especially on weekends when the popular Bucks County park fills with visitors from our area and the Philly suburbs. The water is what brings them. Bring your own boat or rent one there; with six boat launches, anywhere you put in is a unique experience. And after a busy day on the water, ice cream from Owowcow in Ottsville is mandatory.
EVENT:
From May through October, the Nockamixon Sailing School offers two-day sailing classes at the basic and intermediate levels. Sign up at nockamixonsailingschool.com. PA Route 563, Bedminster and Haycock Townships | dcnr.pa.gov
YOUR “DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT” CHECKLIST ⃞ The right footwear. Sneakers
work well on paved paths but not on the Appalachian Trail. Sturdy boots with tread help when navigating rocky paths or scrambling up hills.
⃞ The right clothing. Check
the weather forecast for your destination and dress in layers. Spring weather is unpredictable. A light “shell” will protect you from wind, rain and snow.
⃞ Cell phone. For selfies and
emergency calls.
⃞ Water & snacks. ⃞ Sunscreen & a hat.
For sunny days.
⃞ Binoculars. ⃞ Backpack. For shed clothing
layers and everything else.
⃞ A secure place for your keys.
There’s nothing worse than losing keys in the middle of nowhere or dropping them in a lake.
⃞ And don’t forget to tell
someone where you’re going.
Photo by Kenneth P. Volpe
a bike ride
GO FOR JACOBSBURG ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION 19 MILES CENTER EASY TO MODERATE There’s something for every skill level of mountain biker at Jacobsburg. Beginner trails are gravel and flat, but there are a few climbs and technical stretches with roots and rocks to keep things interesting. Trails are a combination of singletrack and doubletrack over variable terrain. While not as crowded as other area parks, be prepared to share the trail with runners, people walking their dogs, and especially horses—keep an eye out for those road apples!
outfitter who will shuttle you to White Haven to start your ride.
EVENT:
Give your legs a different workout during the Jim Thorpe Area Running Festival May 16–17. Choose from a half marathon, 8-miler or full marathon. The full marathon course on Sunday follows the Lehigh Gorge rail trail. Runners and spectators alike are transported by scenic train from Jim Thorpe to the start in White Haven. Downtown Jim Thorpe dcnr.pa.gov | runsignup.com
SWITCHBACK RAILROAD18 MILES TRAIL EASY TO CHALLENGING
400 Belfast Rd., Nazareth dcnr.pa.gov
LEHIGH GORGE STATE PARK 26
MILES
EASY Wildlife, rocks and waterfalls await those who cycle the Lehigh Gorge near Jim Thorpe. An abandoned railroad bed along the Lehigh River is now a nice, wide, mostly paved path suitable for all fitness levels. Biking the entire 26-mile stretch from White Haven south to Jim Thorpe is a popular option—it’s a gentle downhill all the way. Use your own bike, or rent one from a local
Rail enthusiasts know that Pennsylvania’s first railroad was constructed in the 1800s to carry coal nine miles from Summit Hill downhill to the canal in Jim Thorpe. Bike enthusiasts know that same route today is a fun biking trail, offering an almost pedal-free ride down the hill but a lot more effort on the way back up. Enjoy some incredible views of the Lehigh Gorge and Jim Thorpe. To make things easy, rent a bike from an outfitter in Jim Thorpe who will shuttle you up top for a one-way breeze back into town. 625 Lentz Trail Rd., Jim Thorpe delawareandlehigh.org
PERFECT PICNIC SPOTS Sometimes, you just need to spread a blanket in a beautiful spot and eat lunch. Here are some Valley options for picnics:
Rose Garden in Allentown. Flowers are in peak bloom in June but the wide lawns and weeping willows with branches trailing into the creek are inviting any time of year. Lock Ridge Park in Alburtis. The castle-like remains of a coal-burning iron furnace make a nice picnic backdrop, as do the photogenic swaths of grape hyacinths that bloom in early spring. Monocacy Park in Bethlehem. Two picnic pavilions straddle the Monocacy Creek in this cute park, with plenty of happy ducks willing to share your leftovers. Weona Park in Pen Argyl. A ride on the authentic Dentzel carousel with original hand-carved and painted animals makes for a unique experience with kids.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR! TAIL ON THE TRAIL CHALLENGE St. Luke’s University Health Network and the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor have teamed up to present the Lehigh Valley with a 165-mile Tail on the Trail challenge. Individuals and teams of all fitness levels can sign up to log miles on local trails, participate in events and earn incentives. The program is free and begins May 1. tailonthetrail.org
STEP OUTDOORS LEHIGH VALLEY Admission is free to this family festival at SteelStacks on May 30 and 31, designed to introduce kids and their families to the outdoors. Activities include archery, biking, hiking, photography and more, with presentations featuring live animals. steelstacks.org
NATIONAL PARK WEEK Celebrate National Park Week from April 18 to 26. Special programs and events are available at national parks across the country and all park entrance fees are waived on Saturday, April 18.
Hugh Moore Park in Easton. There’s a lot of history here between the Lehigh River and Lehigh Canal, including the Josiah White II canal boat and National Canal Museum.
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the link
TAKE 5 FROM THE LINK Trail Network is an interconnected network of local multi-use trails offering year-round recreation. Over 125 miles of trails across 62 municipalities are available for running, walking, biking and more, with 100 more miles in the works. Below are five trails, spotlighted by our friends at THE LINK. Visit thelinktrails.com to find these or another trail near you.
1. LEHIGH PARKWAY PATH EASY TO MODERATE
6.5 MILES
There are options galore along the Lehigh Parkway Path in the Little Lehigh Parkway. With four bridges (one of them covered) crossing the Little Lehigh Creek, there are as many loops of pathway as you please. The trail’s versatility is one of the reasons it attracts such a diverse group of visitors, from seniors walking hand-in-hand to runners out to beat their personal record. There’s no denying the beauty of the surroundings, remarkably just minutes from downtown Allentown. Make time to visit the Lil’ Le-Hi Trout Nursery to see and feed the fish. Kids of all ages love it. Lehigh Parkway East, Allentown
2 . IRONTON RAIL-TRAIL EASY
9.2 MILES
There’s lots for history buffs to love as they stretch their legs on the Ironton Rail-Trail, an easy multi-use trail that follows the route of the Ironton Railroad in
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Coplay and Hokendauqua. There are more than two dozen sites and nineteenth-century ruins to explore that tie into the Lehigh Valley’s roots in the iron and cement industries, including the eerie, 90-foot-high Saylor Cement kilns and a refurbished red caboose. The well-maintained trail with historic markers is mostly paved and consists of a 5.3-mile loop and 3.9-mile spur west towards Ironton.
so many trees, the trail stays nice and shaded when the weather warms up.
Access: 3853 Chestnut St. Whitehall (main)
EASY
3. SAUCON RAIL TRAIL EASY
7.5 MILES
Before walkers, runners, dogs and bikes took over, the path of Saucon Rail Trail was an important railroad link between Bethlehem and Philadelphia. Today, the wide, mostly flat gravel path connects Bachman Street in Hellertown to East Station Avenue in Coopersburg. It never feels crowded and there’s much to see along the way: wildlife, rock formations, the meandering Saucon Creek and the backyards of some beautiful homes. With
Access: 8 points in Hellertown, Lower Saucon Township and Coopersburg
4. KARL STIRNER ARTS TRAIL 2.2 MILES
Sculptor and patriarch of the Easton arts community Karl Stirner is memorialized in the walking trail that bears his name. It’s a bit like an outdoor art museum, where 20-plus pieces of artwork coexist peacefully with walkers, bikers and pups. But that was the intention: art placed in nature to inspire the public’s imagination. The trail follows the Bushkill Creek, includes a dog park and is within short walking distance of Lafayette College and Downtown Easton. A new bridge connecting Simon Silk Mill to the trail makes access easier than ever. Access: Near 551 N. 13 th St. (west) and 3rd St. (east), Easton
5. D&L TRAIL EASY
+ 40 MILES
The entire 140-mile D&L Trail runs from Bristol to Mountaintop, with 40 of those miles within Northampton and Lehigh counties. Starting in Easton and heading north to Lehigh Gap, the trail follows the Lehigh River, jumping back and forth between canal towpath and old rail bed as it traverses Lehigh Valley history. A seven-mile gap exists from Allentown to Northampton, but plans are in place to close it with a 14-mile loop on both sides of the river— a canal path on the east side and rail bed on the west.
EVENT:
The D&L Heritage Half Marathon Run/Walk on November 1 is the biggest fundraiser for the D&L Trail and the only walker-friendly half in the region. Register at race. delawareandlehigh.org. Access: Wy-Hit-Tuk County Park, Easton (south) and near 88 Main St., Slatington (north)