The BERKS COUNTY WANDERERS are part of the Berks County Comunity Hiking Club. Their walks and hikes are held primarily on Thursday mornings. Further information about either hiking group is available from Al Napolentano at 610-929-9694 or avnapo@msn.com. Pets are not allowed on these hikes. To see photos from preveous hikes go to: http://wandererspics.blogspot.com

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Thursday Jan 10, 2019 - Honey Brook

HERB has mapped out a moderate 4-5 mile walk in the Honey Brook/ Lancaster County area. We will walk past Amish farms, old mills and historic homes. There are good views of the Welsh Mountains in the distance. A stop at a cheese factory and country store is planned. Lunch afterwards will be at Wimpy and Dee's as an option.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ the Dollar Store off Route 10 across from the Windmill Rest., Morgantown.

TELEPHONE: Leader Herb 484-252-9493c with questions.

Thursday, December 6, 2018

Thursday Jan 3, 2019 - Pottstown / Hill School

DONNA has arranged a 4-5 mile Hill School Performing Arts Center student/alumni led campus guided tour, plus guided walk to the fields & through the neighborhood. Heavy rain/snow or ice cancels this event. Lunch afterwards at Brookside Family Restaurant, Pottstown.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Hill School Performing Arts center parking lot by statue, 760 Beech Street, Pottstown

DIRECTIONS to 760 Beech St:
1. From Reading, eastbound on either Route 724 or Route 422, take Route 100 North
2. On Route 100, turn right at the first traffic light (King St). CAREFUL. There are 2 right turns here, the first is for Route 422 Business and Stowe. You want the second right turn for Route 663 North.
3. At the first traffic light (Manatawny St), turn left.
4. After 3 blocks, turn right onto Beech St. Again, CAREFUL, you do not see this turn until you are on it.
5. Take Beech St through town to 760 Beech.

TELEPHONE: Leader Donna Meloy 610-385-6862, Cell 484-797-4234 with questions.

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

Thursday Dec 27, 2018 - Shartlesville

ANN will lead a 5.5-6.5 mile road hike in Northern Berks County in the Shartlesville Area. We will be hiking along the Northkill on the road leading to the Golf Course. Lunch is optional at the Blue Mt. Family Restaurant afterwards. However; rain or snow cancels.

MEET: 11:30 A.M. @ Blue Mt. Family Restaurant in the west parking lot away from main entrance.

TELEPHONE: Leader Ann 610-488-6378 with questions.

Thursday Dec 20, 2018 - Blue Marsh

Les will lead a 5 to 6 mile hike downstream from the Stilling Basin dam. We will quickly diverge from the main Blue Marsh trail to a wooded trail high above the Tulpehocken Creek. On last summer's hike vegetation hid the creek. This hike should afford some scenic views. At the parking area where the trail ends we will explore the road leading to the parking area. Once we find the entry point, our steps will be retraced to the parking area, then we connect to the main trail to complete the hike.

MEET: 10 AM at the Stilling Basin parking lot off Palisades Rd, the lot at the dam NOT the one next to Palisades Rd.

TELEPHONE: Leader Les 610-323-1703 with questions

Tuesday, November 13, 2018

Thursday Dec 13, 2018 - Crow's Nest

HERB has scouted out and will lead a 4-5 mile hike at CROW'S NEST PRESERVE. We will walk on the Horse-Shoe Trail, Preserve Trails and some back roads. Some of the walk is on an old railroad bed and passes old quarries where cobblestones were mined for use on the streets of colonial Philly. There are some gentle hills and rocks. Lunch after is optional.

MEET1: 9:30 A.M. @ Hopewell Furnace Visitors Center off Route 345
MEET2: 10:00 A.M. @ Crow's Nest parking lot on Piersol Rd.

TELEPHONE: Leader Herb at 484-252-9493 c with questions.

Thursday Dec 6, 2018 - Exeter Township

GROVER will lead a WALK IN EXETER TOWNSHIP about 4 miles. We will start at the Exeter Library and walk on sidewalks and a little road walking. Lunch is an option afterwards.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Exeter Library.

DIRECTIONS: Traveling east turn right off Rte. 422. Take 47th St. (1st traffic into Exeter Rite aid). 2nd street to right. Then right; left; right. Into library entrance by big red barn. Follow blue Library signs.

TELEPHONE: Leader Grover (Dick) 860-861-5681 with questions

Thursday, November 1, 2018

Thursday Nov 29, 2018 - Perry Township

GERRY will lead a 5 mile road hike in PERRY TOWNSHIP. It will be HILLY. We will see the warehouse area where the leader lived and the farm her Grandparents owned. Towards the end of the hike we might walk the church’s labyrinth. The leader will also have photos of former buildings for those interested in history. Lunch is optional afterwards.

MEET: 9:45 A.M. @ Zion Lutheran Church, Zion Church Rd., midway between Shoemakersville and Hamburg off Rte. 61, top of hill traveling north. Lodge building is on northeast corner. Go .7 mile to church and park away from the church. Leader will call about using the church’s toilet facilities.

TELEPHONE: Leader Gerry 610-678-5245 with questions.

Thursday Nov 22, 2018 - Wyomissing

KAY says on Thanksgiving Day 2018 enjoy a hike along Wyomissing Creek and work up an appetite to enjoy turkey and filling. The hike will be approximately 5 miles and we will travel on trails, roads, and fields of the area. Also a visit to the Healing Garden at Reading Hospital; although nothing is expected to be blooming this time of year. Always dress appropriately for weather conditions. If it rains it's possible to get your feet wet.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Wyomissing Creek parking lot off Lancaster Avenue in Shillington. Located behind WAWA near Business Route 222 and Route 724.

TELEPHONE: Leader Kay 610-796-7602 with questions.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY 2018!

Wednesday, October 24, 2018

Thursday Nov 15, 2018 - Appalachian Trail

HERB has planned a 4-5 mile moderate fall hike on the AT in the Blue Mountains. There will also be a stop to visit the “Bloody Spring” where settlers died in an Indian raid. We will park in an AT parking lot, hike on the AT and return by a woods road. All hikers must have at least some florescent orange displayed. The hike leader will have extras for those without. We will follow all the required guidelines. There are some rocks and hills. Come out and experience the mountain in late fall. Lunch afterwards is an option.

MEET: 9:00 A.M. @ Old Church Road parking lot of Blue Marsh off of Route 183 near Bernville.

TELEPHONE: Leader Herb Van Horn 484-252-9493c with questions.

Thursday Nov 8, 2018 - Goldmine Road

GROVER will lead a hike on a trail beginning at the trail head along Goldmine Rd. in Dauphin County. Lunch is a possible option afterwards.

MEET: 9:00 A.M. @ the parking lot of Blue Marsh on Old Church Rd. off Rte. 183 for carpooling.

TELEPHONE: Leader Grover 860-861-5681 with questions.

Thursday Nov 1, 2018 - Oley

Les will lead a 5.5-6 mile OLEY road hike. In addition to scenic country views at harvest time, we will be passing the historic homesteads of the Kauffman’s, Abraham Bertolet, and Abraham Levan. There are no severe hills on this hike. Lunch is a possible option afterwards.

MEET: 9:45 A.M. @ Weis Market, Route 73 and Friedensberg Rd in OLEY. From here there will be a short shuttle to the starting point.

TELEPHONE: Leader Les 610-323-1703 with questions

Monday, October 15, 2018

Thursday Oct 25, 2018 - Hamburg

BEV will lead a 4 to 5 mile hike in HAMBURG, PA. We will be leaving the Hamburg Railroad Trailhead at Maple and 3rd Street at 10:00 A.M. The hike will be in the town of Hamburg and will include Jan’s Garden, Murals of Hamburg, cemetery, a tour of the inside of a century old church and more. We will see how the old stores had been closed, but the younger generation is investing in small businesses. The residences of Hamburg should be decorated for Autumn/Halloween. There is a moderate hill and the hike should be 4 to 5 miles.

MEET: 10:00 A.M., it’s also the leaving time, see above..
Directions: Take Rte. 61 North to Hamburg exit, turn left at the first street after the Dollar General Store, the parking lot is a block down in front of you.

TELEPHONE: Hike Leader Bev 610 603 6876c or 484 665-0196 with questions.

Sunday, September 30, 2018

Thursday Oct 18, 2018 - French Creek

HERB has mapped a 4-5 mile easy hike around the Pine Swamp Natural Area in the FCSP. We will walk on the little used Harmonyville Road, the Horse-Shoe Trail and park trails. The leaves may be in full color and falling. A nice view of Mt. Pleasure in fall colors should be visible. There are very few rocks and hills on this shuttle hike! Lunch after is optional.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ the parking lot across from the French Creek State Park Office on Park Rd.

TELEPHONE: Leader Herb 484-252-9493 c with questions.

Thursday Oct 11, 2018 - Pulpit Rock

ED will lead the PULPIT ROCK LOOP HIKE - 5 Moderate miles. A classic hike on our favorite local mountain. We will see hills, rocks, and a great overlook. Optional lunch afterwards at C. J. Hummel's in Lenhartsville.

MEET: 9:00 A.M. @ Hamburg Reservoir parking area at the end of Reservoir Rd. off Old Route 22 ( State Street in Hamburg ), about two miles east of Hamburg opposite St. Paul's Church.

DIRECTIONS: Rt. 61 north, exit to right onto 4th Street. At third traffic light turn right onto State St. ( Old Route 22 ). Proceed about two miles to Reservoir RD. on your left. Follow Reservoir RD. to parking area.

TELEPHONE: LEADER: Ed 610-921-3252 ecg8@Juno.com with questions.

Sunday, September 9, 2018

Thursday Oct 4, 2018 - New Hanover Township

LES will lead this 5 +mile shuttle hike exploring roads to the east of our New Hanover hike in August. A portion of this hike approaches Swamp Creek. We visit the location of the Goshenhoppen Folk Festival and the Henry Antes house built in 1736 by a prominent citizen of the era. Optionally, we will do another mile to visit the Bertolet Meeting House.

MEET #1: 9:40 A.M.: @ Weis Market on Route 73 in GILBERTSVILLE about a block east of Route 100.
MEET #2: 10:00 A.M. @ Bob Wayland Memorial Park, approximately 200 Fagleysville Rd, Perkiomenville

TELEPHONE: Leader Les 610-323-1703 with any questions.

Thursday Sep 27, 2018 - Schuylkill Haven

GERRY with WILLIE will lead a 5 to 6 mile hike in the Borough of Schuylkill Haven Area. Hiking around the parks, the Island, and along the Schuylkill River on trails and macadam.
Terrain consists of some level and some hills, only one gradual up and down. If you want to eliminate the hills and shorten the distance of the hike, follow Willie. We will see the school and football field where our “Star” athlete, Willie Kramer, played, some years ago. Optional lunch afterwards at the Manheim Diner.

MEET #1: 9:15 A.M. Leaders @ Old Church Rd. parking lot of Blue Marsh or
DIRECTIONS: From Blue Marsh travel Rte.183 to Rte. 443, go right at light into Schuylkill Haven. At light at Turkey Hill, turn right, and pass lake, go right and park near rest rooms.

OR

MEET #1 9:15 A.M. @ Redner’s Leesport Market parking lot, if you want to go on Rte. 61 N. Organize yourselves.
DIRECTIONS: From Redner’s Leesport travel Rte. 61 north, drive into Schuylkill Haven to the light in town, turn left onto Rte. 443 and follow thru down town to bridge. Cross over to Turkey Hill at light and turn right past lake and park up at rest rooms.

MEET #2: 10:00 A.M. @ Bubeck Park, Schuylkill Haven.

TELEPHONE: Leaders Gerry or Willie 610-678-5245 with any questions.

Thursday Sep 20, 2018 - Welsh Mountain Preserve

HERB expecting the weather to cool down has planned a 4-5 mile hike in the Welsh Mountain Preserve. Fall colors may be showing and the trails on the mountain should present some good views of the Weaverland Valley below. We will avoid the worst rock strewn trails and steepest paths. Perhaps we can find the cave where thieves hid stolen horses! Lunch afterwards is optional.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ the Dollar Store parking lot across from the Windmill Restaurant off Rte.10 in Morgantown.

TELEPHONE: Leader Herb 484-252-9493 c with questions.

Thursday Sep 13, 2018 - Douglass Township

LES will take you on a 5.5 mile, primarily road hike through Douglass Township, Berks County. The hike begins at Ironstone Park. Here you can view a high old time trestle bridge still used by the Colebrookdale Railroad. We begin along the Ironstone Creek and follow rural roads, occasionally reencountering the Ironstone Creek. Ultimately, as we approach Route 100, we depart the roadway and walk back a farm lane to the Fritz Burying Ground, a historic colonial era graveyard restored by Douglass Township in the 1990s. The return to the starting point repeats many of the same roads. This hike was done several years ago when the graveyard was covered in snow.

MEET #1: 9:30 A.M. @ Redner's in Douglassville, Routes 422W and 662 for a 6 mile ride to the starting location. Park away from Redner's toward the ACE hardware store.
MEET #2: 9:50 A.M. @ Ironstone Park, approximately 70 Grist Mill Rd, Boyertown, PA.

TELEPHONE: Leader Les 610-323-1703 with questions.

Tuesday, August 28, 2018

Thursday Sep 6, 2018 - Swatara State Park

BEVERLY has planned to lead an easy to moderate 4 mile hike at Swatara State Park in Lebanon County, starting at the Trout Run Trail Head Parking Lot off RT 72. There are moderate hills and few rocks. We will be hiking part of the AT and other trails to make it a loop. Remains of Union Canal locks and the AT bridge will be included. Lunch is optional afterwards at Esther’s in Fredericksburg.

1st MEET: 9:00 A.M. @ Old Church Road Parking Lot at Blue Marsh.
2nd MEET 9:45 A.M. @ the Trout Run Trail Head parking lot.

TELEPHONE: Hike Leader Bev 610 603 6876c with questions.

NOTE: The Park was closed after the rain event earlier this summer. If we receive multiple inches again, this hike will need to be canceled or changed.

Sunday, August 19, 2018

Thursday Aug 30, 2018 - New Hanover Township

LES will lead a relatively flat 5 mile road hike in New Hanover Township in Montgomery County. Among the sites will be historic New Hanover Lutheran Church, and in the distance, the equally historic Falkner Swamp Reformed Church.

MEET #1: 9:45 A.M. @ Weis Market on Route 73 in Gilbertsville about a block east of Route 100.
MEET #2: 10:00 A.M. @ Swamp Creek Park on Reifsnyder Rd. near Church Rd, Gilbertsville.

TELEPHONE: Leader Les 610-323-1703 with any questions.

Sunday, July 29, 2018

Thursday Aug 23, 2018 - Lancaster Junction Trail

KAY will lead a 5 mile hike on Lancaster Junction Trail. This trail was formerly part of Reading-Columbia Rail Line. It will be an easy, SHADY in and out walk alongside Chickies Creek. Lunch opt at Oregon Dairy after the hike.

1st MEET: 9:15 A.M. @ Ollie’s parking lot at intersection of Route 222 and route 724 in Shillington.

2nd MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Lancaster Junction Trail.
DIRECTIONS: Route 30 west to route 283 west. Travel route 283 for about 7 miles and take Salunga exit. Turn right onto Spooky Nook Road for 1/10th mile and take another right onto Champ Road. Follow this road for 1/2 mile. Trail begins on left where road ends. Rest rooms are available near entrance to the trail. GPS address use: 99 Champ Road, Manheim, PA.

TELEPHONE: Leader Kay 610-796-7602 with questions.

Thursday Aug 16, 2018 - Horseshoe Trail Cleanup

MARK will be taking us through a Horseshoe Trail Clean-Up. This occurs on the section of the trail that our club periodically maintains. This section spans from Knauers to Adamstown; however, we may not cover all of it this time. Bring the usual tools required, also work gloves, water and plenty of good humor. This is a good time to give back to the community with some trail maintenance. Lunch is an option later.

MEET: 9:30 a.m. @ Kenhorst Shopping Plaza, Rtes. 724 & 625, in the lot next to Dairy Queen.

TELEPHONE: Leader Mark 484-824-2740 with questions.

Thursday Aug 9, 2018 - Lancaster County Central Park

HERB has planned a 4-5 mile moderate hike in the Lancaster County Central Park. We will walk the trails in the “Garden of the 5 Senses”, do the loop trail in the Kiwanis Park and end up visiting Indian Rock and walk along the Conestoga River.

MEET1: 9:30 A.M. at the south end of the Walmart Shopping Center in Ephrata off of Rt. 322
MEET2: 10:00 A.M. at the Lancaster Co. Park Office.

TELEPHONE: Leader Herb 484-252-9493 c. with questions

Thursday Aug 2, 2018 - Coventry Woods

Expecting a hot summer day, Les will lead a hike approaching 5 miles in Coventry Woods. This will be a shaded walk with a bit of roads. There will be hills as we climb to the ridge and descend the back side.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Fernbrook (main) lot at Coventry Woods

DIRECTIONS #1: 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 this intersection. 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.

DIRECTIONS #2: From Route 23, take St Peter's Rd. through St Peter's Village and continue for about 4 more miles on St Peter's Rd. When you see Fernbrook Lane to the left, turn right into Coventry Woods. NOTE: Route 23 is expected to be closed eastbound from 401 to 345. Detour via 401 and 345.

TELEPHONE: Leader Les 610-323-1703 with any questions.

Sunday, July 1, 2018

Thursday, Jul 26, 2018 - Leesport Locks and Bridges

ED will lead the LEESPORT LOCKS AND BRIDGES HIKE - Approx. 5 easy to moderate miles. A new history hike in and around Leesport. We will see canal locks 36, 37, and 38. Also, see the new bridge over the river under construction, the lock tenders house, and other local sights. The hike is on both trails and area roads, with only one significant hill.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Leesport Library
DIRECTIONS: We will park behind the Leesport library on Washington St. This is in west Leesport and must be accessed (due to bridge construction) via Cross Keys Rd. to Grange Rd. (follow the Wall St. Detour signs). Turn right on Grange Rd. which becomes Main St. in west Leesport. Where Grange bends to the left at the railroad, go straight, staying on Main St. Turn right on Washington St ( last street before the river ), and look for the library about one tenth of a mile on the right, next to the Leesport pool.

TELEPHONE: Leader Ed 610-921-3252 with any questions.

Thursday Jul 19, 2018 - Blue Marsh

LES will lead a 5.75 mile shuttle hike at Blue Marsh from Spring Creek to the Stilling Basin. Included is a shaded walk above the Tulpehocken Creek and a visit to the Old Dry Road Farm.

MEET: 9:00 AM @ the Stilling Basin parking lot off Palisades Rd, the lot at the dam, not the one next to Palisades Road.

TELEPHONE: Leader Les 610-323-1703, cell 610-850-1855 with questions.

Sunday, May 27, 2018

Thursday Jul 12, 2018 - Warwick Park

MARY will lead a 4-5 mile hike on the Horseshoe Trail in Warwick County Park. Bring water and a snack. Lunch afterwards is optional.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Warwick County Park Visitor Center.

TELEPHONE: Leader Mary at 508-612-3582 with questions.

Thursday Jul 5, 2018 - Pulpit Rock

GROVER (DICK) will lead an ~6 mile hike to Pulpit Rock via the Appalachian Trail. Thus, some difficulty is expected. Carry water and a snack. Lunch afterwards is optional.

MEET:9:30 A.M. @ the Hamburg Reservoir Parking Lot off of Old Rte. 22.

TELEPHONE: Leader Grover at 860-861-5681 with questions.

Thursday Jun 28, 2018 - Trail Magic

ELLEN and HERB are organizing a “Trail-Magic” event on the Appalachian Trail north of Reading. This will be a picnic for all hikers on the trail that day including the Wanderers. Les will be leading a 4-5 mile in and out hike on the AT for all interested hikers. This event will be held rain or shine.

MEET:9:00 A.M. @ Redner's Leesport Market parking lot off Rte. 61 to carpool. It is about a 40 minute drive to the trail crossing.

TELEPHONE: Call Ellen 610-301-7271c to coordinate food and drinks. Cold drinks, fresh fruit and home baked goods are favorites! Hot dogs, hamburgers and buns will be provided. Call Herb with other questions at 484-252-9493 c.

Thursday Jun 21, 2018 - Leaser Lake

BEVERLY has planned to lead an easy to moderate 4-5 mile hike at Leaser Lake in Jacksonville, Lehigh County; starting at the North Parking Lot. There will be some moderate hills and some rocks. Bridges are now open over the dam and stream. Recommend water and hat since some of the trail is through meadowland. Lunch is optional afterwards at C.J. Hummel's in Lenhartsville.

MEET: 9:00 A.M. @ Redner's IN HAMBURG for those not familiar with the location or 9:30 AM at the North Parking Lot; turn left after Jacksonville.

TELEPHONE: Hike Leader Bev 610 603 6876c with questions.

Thursday Jun 14, 2018 - Nolde Forest

MARK will lead a difficult 5 to 6 mile hike in the Nolde Forest. We will start at the Sawmill parking lot and hike on various trails within the forest. There will be hills, so be prepared. Carry water and a snack, if desired. Lunch is an option afterwards.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Sawmill parking lot of Nolde Forest, just off Route 625.

TELEPHONE: Leader Mark 484-824-2740 with any questions.

Thursday Jun 7, 2018 - Hopewell

GROVER (DICK) will lead a 4-5 mile hike at Hopewell Furnace. There will be a few small hills. Carry water and a snack. Lunch afterwards is an option. Only snow, sleet or hail will cancel this hike!!!!

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ the Hopewell Visitor Center.

TELEPHONE: Leader Grover at 860-861-5681 with questions.

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

Thursday May 31, 2018 - Hamburg Reservoir Springs

ED will lead THE SPRINGS OF SPRING HIKE - approx. 5 miles. This will be a moderate to difficult hike due to stream crossings and steep descents on the Blue Mountain. We will visit the Stephanie and Cold Springs via the old Windsor Furnace - Eckville public road and the Appalachian Trail. Wet feet are a possibility! Rain may shorten, but not cancel this hike. Lunch opt to follow at C.J. Hummel's in Lenhartsville.

MEET : 9:00 A.M. @ Hamburg reservoir parking area at end of Reservoir Rd., off of Rte. 22 east of Hamburg.

TELEPHONE: Leader Ed 610-921-3252 with questions.

Thursday May 24, 2018 - Mt Gretna

MIKE will lead an easy 5 or so mile hike in the Town of Mt. Gretna. A walk around Mt. Gretna. Let's see what is blooming in the old Chautauqua. We will walk around both the old and the newer parts of Mt. Gretna, all roads and sidewalks, over hills and valleys. As an option later, there are several places in the area to stop for lunch.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ the main parking lot by the Gretna Emporium off of Route 117 (Mt. Gretna Road) My GPS shows 40.247940, -76.471342

TELEPHONE: Leader Mike 717-949-2056 with any questions.

Sunday, April 15, 2018

Thursday May 17, 2018 - Horseshoe Trail Cleanup

MARK will be taking us through a Horseshoe Trail Clean Up. This occurs on the section of the trail that our club periodically maintains. This section spans from Knauers to Adamstown; however, we may not cover all of it at this time. Bring the usual tools required, also work gloves, water and plenty of good humor. This is a good time to give back to the community some trail maintenance. Lunch is an option afterwards.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Kenhorst Shopping Plaza, Rtes. 724 & 625, in the lot next to Dairy Queen.

TELEPHONE: Leader Mark 484-824-2740 with questions.

Thursday May 10, 2018 - Furnace Hills, Lebanon County

HERB has planned and will lead a 4-5 mile moderate round trip hike in the Furnace Hills woodlands. The walk is on the Horse-Shoe Trail and other marked trails in the area. We will walk along several streams flowing with spring rains and see many emerging wildflowers. We will climb to Eagle Rock and then descend into the valley below. Expect some rocks and moderate hills to negotiate. Lunch opt afterwards.

MEET 1: 9:00 A.M. at the west end of the Walmart parking lot in Ephrata off of route 322
MEET 2: 9:30 A.M. in the main parking lot at Furnace Hills near the Horse-Shoe Trail crossing on route 322.

TELEPHONE: Leader Herb Van Horn 484-252-9493c with questions.

Thursday May 3, 2018 - Wernersville

GERRY & WILLIE will lead a 5 1/2 to 6 mile hike in the Wernersville Area. Walk trails to see the Witness Tree, then roads through a mobile home park and countryside with many views. Expect hills on this hike. We could opt to eat at Red Plate Diner afterwards, if the group agrees and we finish in time.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Wernersville State Hospital parking lot.

DIRECTIONS: Travel west on Rte. 422, midway between Wernersville and Robesonia, to traffic light-Sportsman Rd. turn left and go to first road left into parking lot.

TELEPHONE: Leader Gerry or Willie 610-678-5245 with questions.

Thursday Apr 26, 2018 - Laurel Locks

LES will lead a 5 to 6 mile hike at the historic and scenic Laurel Locks Farm near Pottstown and on adjacent roads. This hike is generally flat.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Coventry Mall, next to Route 724. On Route 724 from Birdsboro, take the first left turn into the mall after passing Laurelwood Rd. (Coventry Ice Cream Parlor) and park to the left of this entrance.

TELEPHONE: Leader Les 610-323-1703, C. 610-850-1855 with questions.

Thursday Apr 19, 2018 - Hamburg

GERRY & WILLIE will lead a 5 to 6 mile hike in the Hamburg Area comprising of various trails and some roads. This is mostly level walking and fairly easy going. Dress accordingly for unpredictable weather. Lunch option afterwards.

1st MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Redner's Leesport Market off Rte. 61 in southwest corner of lot.
2nd MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Hamburg Park, 2nd & Island Sts., Hamburg.

TELEPHONE: Leader Gerry or Willie 610-678-5245 with questions.

Tuesday, April 10, 2018

Thursday Apr 12, 2018 - Crow's Nest

HERB has planned to lead an easy to moderate 4-5 mile hike at Crow's Nest Preserve. Come out and see the woods in early spring. We will walk through some of the wooded areas on trails and back roads. Hopefully we can take a rest stop at the center in the restored barn and hear a few words on the history of this area. Dress accordingly and be prepared for some muddy paths. If necessary we will walk more on the roads. There will be some moderate hills and some rocks. Lunch is optional afterwards.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. at the Hopewell Furnace Visitor Center off of Route 345 to carpool to a game land parking lot.

TELEPHONE: Hike Leader Herb 484-252-9493 c with questions.

Tuesday, March 13, 2018

Thursday Apr 5, 2018 - Welsh Mountain / Money Rocks

HERB has mapped and will lead a 4-5 mile circle walk at the Welsh Mt. Preserve/Money Rocks Park. See the mountain in it's leafless wonder. The walk will be on woodland trails through this historic area that was once the home of outlaws and bandits. We will avoid the worst hills and boulder strewn areas, but there will be some rocks and moderate hills to negotiate. Lunch afterwards is optional.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ the Dollar Store parking lot off Route 10, across from the Windmill Restaurant in Morgantown to car pool to the starting point.

TELEPHONE: Leader Herb Van Horn 484-252-9493 c. with questions.

Thursday Mar 29, 2018 - Birdsboro Watershed

LES would like you to join him to explore some trails in the Birdsboro Watershed. Many of these are a bit distant from our normal parking places. The new French Creek Hopewell Big Woods trail head that connects to the Schuylkill River Trail will be used to shorten the distance to these trails. Expect 5 to 6 miles of varying terrain including some scenic spots. Lunch option later.

MEET #1: 9:45A.M. @ the Schuylkill River trail head in Monocacy. On Route 724, just east of Center Rd, take the first left turn, at approximately 1273 East Main St (at the former Tim's Ugly Mug, now the Fork & Ale). We will shuttle to the start from here.
MEET # 2 10:00 A.M. @: French Creek Hopewell Big Woods trail head, 165 Center Rd, Birdsboro, PA

TELEPHONE: Leader Les 610-323-1703, cell 610-850-1855 with questions.

Monday, February 19, 2018

Thursday Mar 22, 2018 - Crow's Nest

HERB has planned to lead an easy to moderate 4-5 mile hike at Crow's Nest Preserve. Come out and see the woods in the winter. We will walk through some of the wooded areas on trails and back roads. Hopefully we can take a rest stop at the center in the restored barn and hear a few words on the history of this area. Dress warmly and be prepared for some muddy or snow covered paths. If the snow is deep we will walk more on the roads. There will be some moderate hills and some rocks. Lunch is optional afterwards.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. at the Hopewell Furnace Visitor Center off of Route 345 to carpool to a game land parking lot.

TELEPHONE: Hike Leader Herb 484-252-9493 with questions.

Thursday Mar 15, 2018 - Ontelaunee Lake

LES will lead a 5.5 to 6 mile hike in the vicinity of Ontelaunee Lake. This will be a relatively easy flat hike with numerous views of the lake. Lunch afterwards is optional at the Crossroads Restaurant, Rte. 61, Tuckerton.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Redner's Mkt. in Leesport for a short drive to the starting point.
GPS: 5479 Pottsville Pike (Route 61), Leesport, PA

TELEPHONE: Leader Les 610-323-1703, Cell 610-850-1855 with questions.

Thursday Mar 8, 2018 - Gamelands at Narvon

KAY will lead an in and out hike for 2 to 2 1/2 miles on game lands road to the Pennsylvania Turnpike and then hike back the same distance for a total of 4 to 5 miles. We will stop at “Ye Olden Tree” (named by Clyde). If time permits we may explore a few side trails. Please remember to wear orange in case of possible hunters.

WHERE: Game Lands 52. GPS address: 1005 Edwards Road, Narvon PA
DIRECTIONS: Take Route 625 and turn left onto Maple Grove Road. Continue following Maple Grove Road until it becomes Edwards Road. Large Game Lands parking lot on right side of Road. If you cross turnpike bridge you went too far.
MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Kenhorst Plaza, Rtes. 724 & 625, in the lot next to Dairy Queen.

TELEPHONE: Leader Kay 610-796-7602 with questions.

Friday, February 2, 2018

Thursday Mar 1, 2018 - Lenhartsville Roads

ED will lead the LENHARTSVILLE LOOP - approx. 5 easy miles. Our traditional January hike, this time in March, along the Maiden Creek and country roads, in the hills near Lenhartsville. This is an easy road hike with some nice views of the Maiden Creek and the hill country, southeast of town. We will pass the remains of the 19th century Maiden Creek Iron Furnace, as well. Optional lunch afterwards at C. .J. Hummel's restaurant in Lenhartsville.
NOTE: Snow or ice will cancel this hike.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. in the rear of the side parking lot of C. .J. Hummel's Restaurant, Rte. 143 in downtown Lenhartsville.
GPS: 28 Willow St., Lenhartsville 19543

TELEPHONE: Leader Ed 610-921-3252 with questions.

Thursday Feb 22, 2018 - Shoemakersville / Perry Township

GERRY & WILLIE? will lead the "Shoey" 5.6 mile country & town hike. We will do all roads in the countryside of Perry Township and then streets in the town of Shoemakersville. We will get to view the oldest house in town and eat at the restaurant where we will meet.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Perry Restaurant on Bellevue Rd. located between Rte. 61 and Main St.
DIRECTIONS: Travelling North on Rte. 61 Kuzan's is on right side of Rte. 61 and Perry Restaurant is on street to left before Tom Shaeffer Campers.

TELEPHONE: Leader Gerry & Willie? 610-678-5245 with questions.

Wednesday, January 24, 2018

Thursday Feb 15, 2018 - Mt Penn

LES will lead a hike of about 6 miles on Mt Penn. Beginning at the Fire Tower, the hike heads to the Pagoda, proceeds to Egelman Park, then through Mineral Spring Park, where we reverse our direction. After returning to Egelman Park, other trails will be taken to return to the Tower. Snowy or icy roads cancels this event.

MEET: 10:00 AM @ the Fire Tower on Skyline Drive. GPS: 40.347834, -75.902747

TELEPHONE: Leader Les 610-323-1703, Cell 610-850-1855 with questions.

Thursday Feb 8 , 2018 - Hopewell

KATHY says, Tsk, Tsk, heavens to Betsy, we only did 1/2 of Jody’s hike at French Creek State Park and Hopewell Park. Come and enjoy the second half of the hike from Hopewell to Hopewell ~ 5 miles. We’ll backtrack a little to the steps and take the Horseshoe trail to “Lover’s Lane”. Then, the road to Bethesda Church and the trail thru the woods. Returning via St. Peter’s Road and the Hopewell road back to the cars. Rain or snow cancels.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Hopewell Park Visitor's Center parking lot.

TELEPHONE: Leader, Kathy, 610-603-946
1 with questions.

Thursday Feb 1, 2018 - Wyomissing Creek

KAY has planned and will lead a 5 mile hike on Wyomissing Creek Trail to where it meets the Schuylkill River Trail. We will return thru Reading Museum grounds. Then trek upstream thru beautiful Wyomissing Parks to see the “controversial” new football field fence. Lunch is optional afterwards.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Old Mill Road parking lot. ( This is a NEW meeting place).
Directions from Shillington: Take Museum Road to first traffic light (about 1 mile) and turn left. Continue to parking on left.
Directions from Reading: Take Museum Road and after passing Kenhorst Boulevard, turn right at next traffic light. Continue to parking on left. GPS Directions: 948 Old Mill Road, Reading PA.

TELEPHONE: Leader Kay 610-796-7602 with questions.

Monday, January 1, 2018

Thursday Jan 25, 2018 - Birdsboro Watershed

Les will lead a 5.5 mile hike mostly in the Birdsboro Watershed. The hike begins with a road walk of close to 2 miles. The Horseshoe Trail will be used to enter the watershed. Local trails take us to the scenic reservoir surrounded by pines. We return via a closed section of the old Route 82. Snowy or icy roads cancel this event.

MEET: 10:00 AM @ the parking area on Hay Creek Rd (former Route 82), north of Geigertown, .8 mile north of where Mullen Hollow Rd intersects with Hay Creek Rd.
GPS: Go to 2 Elk Trail Lane, Birdsboro, then stay on Hay Creek Rd another .1 mile

DIRECTIONS: From the traffic light in Gibraltar at the Turkey Hill, travel east on Route 724, take the first right turn (about 1.2 miles), cross railroad tracks, turn left on Old River Rd, then almost immediately right onto Rock Hollow Rd. Drive 2.8 miles on Rock Hollow, cross Cocalico Rd, then drive another 1.1 miles to the first stop sign at Hay Creek Rd. Turn left and drive .7 miles to the parking area.

TELEPHONE: Leader Les 610-323-1703, Cell 610-850-1855 with questions.

Thursday Jan 18, 2018 - French Creek

KATHY will lead a hike at French Creek State Park following the Boone and Horseshoe Trails to Hopewell Village and then continue through the village to Rt. 345 where we will turn around and head back on the Horseshoe Trail. It is 4 miles moderate, a figure 8 hike, very nice.
Rain or snow cancels.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ the west boat launch of French Creek State Park, by the bathrooms.

TELEPHONE: Leader: Kathy 610-603-9461 with questions.