Thursday Jan 20, 2011 - Phoebe Village / Wernersville

GERRY & WILLIE will lead a 5.5 mile hike around Phoebe/Berks Village and Hain’s Church. Learn some history while viewing buildings along route 422 in Wernersville. This hike was rained out on November 4th, hopefully the weather will allow us to go forward. We will hike on sidewalks, roads and a “tour” inside Phoebe. (Maybe some of us will want to move there when we are “much older”?) Later there will be an optional lunch stop.

MEET: 10:00 A. M. @ Phoebe/Berks Village on Route 422 in Wernersville. Enter driveway from Route 422 (across from the Red Plate Diner) and park in first lot on left before archway.

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

Thursday Jan 13, 2011 - Muhlenberg Township

THELMA & AL will lead a ~ 6 mile hike in Muhlenberg Township. Visit the site of the old Ritz Lock and Felix Dam on a path along the river. Continue through a residential area on streets and sidewalks and on to the new Jim Dietrich Park being developed by the Muhlenberg Parks Dept. We will explore this park which was formerly the Dietrich Farm and Orchard. Then, retrace some of our steps as we return to our starting point. A lunch stop is an option afterwards.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Felix Dam Parking Lot at Whitner & River Roads.

DIRECTIONS: Take the River Rd. exit off Rte. 12 (Warren St. By-Pass) and travel north on River Road 2.7 miles to Whitner Road, 4th stop sign. Cross Whitner Rd. and immediately turn left into Felix Dam Rec. Parking Area.

TELEPHONE: Thelma or Al 610-929-9694, Cell 610-406-1366

Thursday Jan 6, 2011 - French Creek

KATHY will lead a 6.5 mile hike in French Creek State Park. This hike will be on parts of four trails and will challenge us with a few hills and lots of rocks. The main trail is the Buzzard Trail, a loop trail with two tails, which we will hike in its entirety. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear orange, perhaps, and sturdy shoes. Afterwards there will be an optional lunch stop at the Exeter Restaurant.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Shed Road Parking Lot in French Creek State Park.

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

Thursday Dec 30, 2010 - St Peter's Village

CLYDE wants you to walk off your Holiday Feasting with a relaxing 5 mile walk in the State Game Land trails next to Saint Peter’s Village. This walk will be on parts of the Horse Shoe Trail and the proposed rail road trail from St. Peters west to Pa. Route 345. Also, traverse on several of the many trails not blazed or on maps. Option for lunch after our walk will be at the St. Peter’s Bakery.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ State Game Lands parking area, north end of Saint Peter’s Village. This will be a loop hike with no shuttle involved. There will be one creek to cross, providing the water is not running too high.

TELEPHONE: Clyde 610-913-0284 or day of event 610-413-6281 if question.

Thursday December 23, 2010 - Mt Gretna

RANDY will lead a 5 to 7 mile hike in the Mt. Gretna Area. Originally scheduled Sept. 30th and rained out by the remnants of tropical storm Nicole. Hike on the Lebanon Valley Rail to Trail and other trails in the area. Carry water and snacks, we’ll lunch at The Hide-Away Restaurant later for those wishing to dine.

DIRECTIONS: From South use Turnpike or Rte. 322 to Rte. 72 and go North to Rte. 117, at the end of ramp go left for 2+ miles, parking on the left. From East take Rte. 419 to Cornwall area and pick up Rte. 117.

1st MEET: 8:45 A.M. @ Shur-Fine parking lot off Rte. 422W in Sinking Spring.

2nd MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Mt. Gretna Theatre parking lot in Mt. Gretna.

TELEPHONE: Randy 610-273-9160 or ranvon1@yahoo.com with questions.

Thursday Dec 16, 2010 - Port Clinton Game Lands

CLYDE will lead a 5 mile walk in State Game Lands 106. This tract is located north of Port Clinton. After a steep uphill trek on a forest service road, we will close out this hike on a rocky woodland trail along a beautiful, scenic stream with one easy crossing. Be sure to WEAR ORANGE on this hike. Lunch is optional afterwards.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Redner’s Market off Rte. 61 north in Leesport. We will drive to State Game Land parking off route 895 and Hawk Mtn. Rd. This hike will be a loop hike with no shuttle required.

TELEPHONE: Clyde 610-913-0284 or day of event 610-413-6281 if you have questions.

Thursday Dec 9, 2010 - Nolde Forest

RUDY & ANNELIES will lead a hike of 5 to 6 miles in the Nolde Forest. Wear good hiking shoes and be prepared to hike on hilly woodland trails. After the hike you are invited to the leader’s home for some hot soup. RSVP please, if you plan to attend. Bring some fun ideas or skits for the upcoming BCHC Christmas party. Ideas are desperately needed.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Sawmill parking lot off of route 625.

TELEPHONE: 610-777-4223.

Thursday Dec 2, 2010 - French Creek State Park

CLYDE will lead a 5 mile hike in French Creek State Park. After a shuttle from our meeting point, this hike will start at the Shed Road parking area on an old trail. Then, onto a game trail before following the Lenape Trail to return to the Hopewell Furnace parking area meeting point. Be sure to WEAR ORANGE on this hike. There will be an option for lunch afterwards.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Hopewell Furnace National Park parking lot. No fee required if hiking, although you may want to display your Golden Age Pass, if you have one. There will be a quick shuttle to Shed Road parking area from here to our starting point.

TELEPHONE: Clyde 610-913-0284 or day of event 610-413-6281 if questions arise.

Thursday November 25, 2010 - Wyomissing Creek

KAY will lead a HAPPY THANKSGIVING HIKE in the Wyomissing Area. If you would like to take a leisurely hike today to work up an appetite for dinner, consider hiking maybe 5 to 6 miles to the Wyomissing High School and return. Be prepared to walk alleys, sidewalks, roads and through the pine trees. We will also traverse through Wyomissing Creek Park. Dress accordingly and you may want to wear orange due to traffic.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Shillington Shopping Center at Rite Aid Pharmacy off Lancaster Ave. (Bus. Rte. 222). Please park along side of the building where the Casino patrons park.

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

Thursday Nov 18, 2010 - Valley Forge National Park

KATHY & KAY will lead a 7 mile hike (yes, 7 miles) in Valley Forge National Park. We will begin our hike at the Betzwood Bridge parking area. This hike will take us through various areas of this National Park and end with a scenic walk along the Schuylkill River. The terrain consists of paved walkways and wooded areas. We will track the “Historic Trace” that Washington’s troops took. Dress appropriately for the weather and the trails. Of course, there will be an optional lunch stop after the hike at a local restaurant.

1st MEET: 9:00 A.M. @ Kenhorst Shopping Center, located at routes 724 and 625, near the Dollar Store parking lot.

2nd MEET: 9:15 A.M. @ Coventry Mall, Pottstown in front of Sears along Rte. 724.

TELEPHONE: Kathy 610-603-9461 or Kay 610-796-7602 with questions.

Thursday October 28, 2010 -West Side of Lake Ontelaunee

AL & BRENDA will co-lead a hike of ~7 miles in the beautiful west side of Lake Ontelaunee in Ontelaunee Township. Hike on woodland lanes and along the shore on Fisherman’s trails with very scenic views of the lake from this side, especially the view from the now defunct bridge closed to traffic. There will be some hills to negotiate, but nothing that the wanderers couldn’t handle. Wear an orange vest or hat, carry water and snacks, if desired. Lunch at Hoss’s restaurant is optional afterwards. Rain or snow cancels this event.

Meeting place: 9:30A.M. @ Redner’s Market parking lot off Route 61 N in Leesport. Carpool to our starting point.

For further information, contact: 610-929-9694 or 610-488-7176 if questions arise

Thursday October 21, 2010 - Details to Follow

GERRY & WILLIE will lead a hike on this date with details

forthcoming.

For further information, contact: 610-678-5245

Thursday October 14, 2010 - Montour Preserve

MARGARET will lead a 6 mile hike in the Montour Preserve. We will hike on easy trails around Lake Chillisquaque on PPL’s Environmental Preserve which is located near Washingtonville in Montour County. Its highlights include migrating birds, fall colors and a visitor’s center. Carry a lunch or snack to eat on the trail along with water. Optional dinner stop on the way home for those interested.

NOTE: Drive time is about 2 hours for a 70 mile trip one way.

Meeting place: 8:30 A.M. @ Blue Marsh Church Road parking lot off Route 183.

For further information, contact: 610-779-8393 if you have any questions.

Thursday October 7, 2010 - Brubaker Park, Lancaster County

CLYDE will lead a short 4 to 5 mile walk in the BRUBAKER PARK located along route 897 near Fivepointsville, Lancaster County. We will walk along a stream and through field paths, ending where we started after traversing a labyrinth maze. It is a small park but, quite popular with surrounding neighbors. For those hikers who might like a little longer walk, they may opt to do an exploratory walk in nearby TERRI HILL. Lunch after our walk is also an option.

Meeting place: 10:00 A.M. @ Weaver’s Store parking lot, near their sign. Store is

located along route 897 south of Fivepointsville and north of Terri Hill.

For information, contact: 610-913-0284 if you have questions concerning this event or 610-413-6281 the day of the event.

Thursday September 30, 2010 -Mt Gretna Area

RANDY will lead a 5 to 7 mile hike in Mt Gretna Area. Hike on the Lebanon Valley Rail to Trail and other trails in the area. Carry water and snacks, we’ll lunch at The Hide-Away Restaurant later.

Directions: From South use Turnpike or Rte. 322 to Rte. 72 and go North to Rte. 117,

at the end of ramp go left for 2+ miles, parking on the left. From East take

Rte. 419 to Cornwall area and pick up Rte. 117.

1st Meeting place: 8:45 A.M. @ Shur-Fine parking lot off Rte. 422W in Sinking Spg.

2nd Meeting place: 9:30 A.M. @ Mt. Gretna Theatre parking lot in Mt. Gretna.

For further information, contact: 610-273-9160 or ranvon1@yahoo.com

Thursday September 23, 2010 - Money Rocks Park

HERB will lead a hike of 5 -6 miles in Money Rocks Park near Narvon, Pa. This is a woodland circuitous hike on the Welsh Mountain with one medium ascent. Legend has it that early settlers buried their money and precious belongings here when they thought the British might invade the area during the Revolutionary War. There should be some fall wildflowers blooming that we can enjoy. Afterwards, for those interested, there could be a short stop in a traditional Amish/Mennonite flower garden for cold garden tea and cookies. Restaurant stop later is optional.

Meeting place: 9:30 A.M. @ Windmill Restaurant parking lot off Rtes. 23 & 10.

For information, contact: 610-286-6886.

Thursday September 16, 2010 - Oley to Lobachsville

LES will lead a 6 mile road hike from Oley to Lobachsville and return. Among the historic sites we will view on this hike are the Lesher, Peter, Pott and Hoch homesteads. The Abraham Levan homestead of the1750’s, the Hoch-Peter Mill and the Jacob Keim homestead from the 1750’s which now is owned by the Historic Preservation Trust of Berks County.

http://www.historicpreservationtrust.org/hist

Lunch is optional afterwards.

1st Meeting place: 9:30 A.M. @ King’s IGA, Route 73 & Friedensberg Road in Oley.

2nd Meeting place: 9:45 A.M. @ Oley Valley Youth League, Bertolet Mill & Mud Run Roads, (Enter from Bertolet Mill Road) in Oley.

For information, contact: 610-323-1703.

Thursday September 9, 2010 - Womelsdorf Hike

GERRY & WILLIE will lead a hike of 5.3 miles around the town of Womelsdorf, Pa. This is a loop hike on mainly roads and sidewalks. Along the way we will see Bethany, Town Park, Memorial Tree and the new ball fields. After hiking, if time permits and is optional, we will eat at Heidelberg Restaurant, or pack your lunch. Then at 1:00 P.M. we can go to the Womelsdorf Library for an “Old Time” movie free with coffee & cookies. What will be showing will be determined later, but last time we saw “Niagara” with Marilyn Monroe.

Meeting place: 9:30 A.M. @ Big Lot parking lot along Rte. 419 South of Rte. 422 West, next to Mc Donald’s.

For information, contact: 610-678-5245.

Thursday September 2, 2010 - Shiloh Hills Trail & Kline's Creek Park

KATHY & KAY will lead an ~ 5 mile hike on two separate trails in Spring Township, Berks County. Come along to explore the township’s newest park at Shiloh Hills Elementary School. The Shiloh Hills Trail is cindered and about 2.2 miles long. After this portion of trekking we will continue, all downhill, but out in the open, to another of Spring Township’s hidden gems. We will then hike in Kline’s Creek Park finishing our hiking there for this event. From our meeting point we will drive to our starting point and there is also a short shuttle between the two parks. Dress appropriately, proper weather gear, for whatever Mother Nature may have in store for us. Lunch after the hike is an option for anyone interested.

Meeting place: 10:00 A.M. @ Wyomissing Creek parking lot off Lancaster Ave. in

Shillington. (The lot is located near Bus. Rte. 222 & 724 behind WAWA.)

For information, contact: 610-603-9461 or 610-796-7602.

Thursday August 26, 2010 - Hiker's Choice, You will choose!

This Thursday, Aug. 26th, “YOU” will lead a hike of ~ 6 miles. “YOU” will be chosen by a unanimous decision of the attending group. Then, the chosen leader will determine the trails in the area to be hiked, not to exceed ~ 6 miles. Dress appropriately, wear sturdy shoes and carry water and snacks, if desired. An optional lunch location after hiking will be determined by the “majority rules system”.

Meeting place: 9:15 A.M. @ Antietam Lake parking lot.

For information, contact: 610-323-1703

Thursday August 19, 2010 - Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area

MARK will lead a hike of 4 to 6 miles in the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. The hike will be on various woodland trails. Wearing hiking boots, especially if we have had an abundance of rain prior to this hike is important, since we may end up meandering in mud at some locations. This is a great place to see wild fowl and flowers and Mark is quick in identifying them for us. A lunch stop afterwards is an option.

Meeting place: 9:30 A.M. @ Middle Creek Wildlife Management Visitor’s Center

For information, contact: 610-589-5575

Thursday August 12, 2010 - Reiffton, St. Lawrence, Crestwood, Neversink, and Beyond!

LES will lead a 7.5 mile hike in these various areas of Berks County: Reiffton, St. Lawrence, Crestwood and the Neversink Mountain. We will circumnavigate the Exeter School complex consisting of the high school, the junior high school and the Reiffton and Lausch elementary

centers. Also, circumnavigate the Antietam Creek which runs through the complex, as well.

Later, we will walk through Reiffton, passing an old trolley stop, the locations of the two farms that became Crestwood, the former Reiffton Dairy, the Reiffton Fire Company, the old Reiffton Store and continue up the Neversink Glen from Forest Hills Memorial Cemetery. Be prepared and carry water. Lunch stop is optional afterwards.

Meeting place: 9:15 A.M. @ Boscov’s parking lot off Bus. Rte. 422 in Exeter Twp.

For information, contact: 610-323-1703

Thursday August 5, 2010 - Pine Grove Furnace State Park

KATHY & KAY will lead a 7.5 + mile hike in an area known as Pine Grove Furnace State Park. We will begin with a hike on the Appalachian Trail to Pole Steeple for a beautiful view of Laurel Lake below. Then we will descend to Laurel Lake and continue trekking on the Mountain Creek Trail along the scenic Pine Creek. Plan to take a short break before proceeding to the newly opened Appalachian Trail Museum, so carry water and a lunch/snack to enjoy. We will hike an additional mile to the museum and back. The trail to the museum goes through the National Historic Area of the park. A highlight for the leaders during exploration was eating hand-dipped ice cream while walking back to the car. The entire excursion amounts to 8.5 miles and driving time is about two hours. An all day event, so plan accordingly. Of course, we will stop for dinner on the way home. Bad weather would cancel this event. Check with leaders if doubtful.

1st Meeting place: 9:00 A.M. @ Ollie’s parking lot jct. of 222 & 724 in Shillington.

2nd Meeting place: 11:00 A.M. @ Fuller Lake parking lot in Pine Grove Furnace State Park.

For information, contact: 610-603-9461 or 610-796-7602.

Thursday July 29, 2010 - The "Boulevards" of Wyomissing

KAY will lead a hike of 5 or 6 miles, depending on the weather, through the shaded streets and boulevards of Wyomissing, Pa. They named Wyomissing “The Tree City”, so there is no need to be concerned about the heat of summer. Besides, this will be a leisurely stroll at an easy pace. Carry water, none the less, and snacks if desired. Lunch afterwards is an option;

however, since we are a hiking club with an eating disorder.

Meeting place: 10:00 A.M. @ Wyomissing Creek parking lot off Lancaster Ave. in

Shillington (located behind WAWA near Business Route 222 & Route 724).

For information, contact: 610-796-7602

Thursday July 22, 2010 - Angelica Creek Trail and More!

RICHARD REIBER will lead a hike of 8.5 miles on several trails in the Berks County Parks. After a shuttle to Ken-Grill Swimming Pool and to the trailhead parking lot of the Angelica Creek Trail we will begin hiking. The trail will wind through Angelica Park and connect with the Thun Trail at Brentwood. We will follow the Thun Trail to a split off at Schuylkill Ave. on to the Union Canal Towpath Trail. We will view the Bushong Dam and the confluence of the Schuylkill River and the Tulpehocken Creek. Continue returning to Gring’s Mill parking lot after having hiked on mostly level trails. Dress appropriately; carry water, sun block and snacks if desired. Lunch is optional afterwards.

Meeting place: 9:30A.M. @ Gring’s Mill parking lot across from the Penn State Campus.

For information, contact: 610-926-3415

Thursday July 15, 2010 - Coventry Woods, Chester County

LES will lead a hike of 6.5 miles primarily in Coventry Woods, North Coventry Township in Chester County. From the 2nd meeting location, we will drive ~ 4 miles to the starting point of the hike. Coventry Woods is a township park which has grown through open space acquisitions in recent years. The hike will be mostly in shaded, wooded areas and some road walking. In the future, this park is expected to connect to trails in French Creek Park and with the Schuylkill River Trail. Lunch opt later.

First meeting place: 9:15 A.M. @ Boscov’s East Parking Lot off Rte.422 in Exeter.

Second meeting place: 9:30 A.M. @ Wawa along Rte.422 in Douglassville to join Les.

For information, contact: 610-323-1703

Thursday July 8, 2010 - Blue Marsh Lake

RICHARD will lead a 7 mile hike in the Blue Marsh Lake area of Berks County. The hike will be around Blue Marsh. Starting at the Church Road parking lot we will go up to Bernville-Robie Road. After crossing the bridge we will go down the other side returning to our starting point. Remember to carry water and sun block; snacks if desired. A lunch stop is optional afterwards.

Meeting place: 9:30 A.M. @ Blue Marsh Church Road parking lot just off Rte. 183.

For information, contact: 610-926-3415

Thursday July 1, 2010 - Mount Penn Hike

LES will lead a circuitous hike of about 6 miles from Egelman’s Park to the tower and other points of interest on Mount Penn. Wear sturdy hiking boots and carry water and snacks, if desired. A lunch stop afterwards is optional.

Meeting place: 9:30 A.M. @ Egelman’s Park located at Hill Road and Angora Road in Reading, Pa.

For information, contact: 610-323-1703

Thursday June 24, 2010 - Fort Zeller's Newmanstown

GERRY & WILLIE will lead the Fort Zeller’s – Newmanstown hike of 6 miles around and through Newmanstown, Pa. The hike will be on macadam roads and alleys going past historical Fort Zeller’s, a fish hatchery and Memorial Park. Dress for the weather; carry water and snacks, if desired. A lunch stop after the hike is an option.

First meeting place: 9:30A.M. @ Parking lot of Shurfine Market off Rte. 422 West in

Sinking Spring to carpool.

Second meeting place: 10:00 A.M. @ Parking lot on Sheridan Road across from Elias U.C.C. church in Newmanstown, Pa.

For information, contact: 610-678-5245

Thursday June 17, 2010 -West Side, East Side, All Around Readingtowne!

EDNA PARR & KAY WILLIAMS will lead a 6 mile hike on and in the “West side, East side, all around Readingtowne”. Come join “The Dynamic Duo” and see Edna’s house from every angle. There will be two separate in-and-out hikes. The first hike will be on the unfinished Neversink Trail located on the east side of the Schuylkill River. We will trek to Heritage Park to see Jackson’s landing, an old bridge abutment and foundations from “the glory days” of the canal. We will proceed to as far as we can and then turn around to return to the Reading Area Community College. Next we traverse over a bridge across the Schuylkill River to the west shore; hiking past the Bertolet Fishing Pier, walk a section of the West Reading Bike Trail, travel under a bypass tunnel and return to our starting point.

Meeting place: 10:00 A.M. @ the rear parking lot of the Goggleworks located at

Walnut & 2nd Sts. in Reading, Pa.

For further directions or information, contact: 610-373-8625 or 610-796-7602

Thursday June 10, 2010 - Middlecreek Wildlife Management Area

MARK BANKES will lead a hike of 4 to 6 miles in the Middlecreek Wildlife Management Area. The hike will be mostly on woodland trails, so wearing hiking boots is suggested, since we may be meandering in mud at some locations. This is a great place to see wild fowl and flowers and Mark is great at identifying them. A lunch stop after the hike is optional.

Meeting place: 9:30 A.M. @ Middle Creek Wildlife Management Visitor’s Center.

For further information or directions, contact: 610-589-5575

Thursday May 27 - Goggleworks and Cemetery Hike

Ellen Konecny, Kathy Hengen & Kay Williams will lead a 7.5 mile loop hike. Join “THE THREE HIKERTEERS” on a local excursion. From the Goggleworks in Reading, using the Schuylkill River and Wyomissing Trails, we will proceed to a 1700 era cemetery located in a residential area of West Reading, that we did not know existed, and thanks to Les Rohrbach we will be able to visit. Then, after a few blocks of street walking we will make our way to Angelica Park, meandering through the meadow and following the Angelica Creek Trail back to the Schuylkill River Trail to return to our starting point.

Lunch is optional, of course, but if the group agrees, we can walk up Penn St. to join the lunch crowd at The Peanut Bar.

Meeting place: 10:00 A.M. @ The Goggleworks (Walnut & 2nd Sts., Reading) rear

parking lot.

For further information or directions, contact: Ellen 610-775-2677, Kathy 610-603-9461, Kay 610-796-7602.

Thursday May 20, 2010 - Horseshoe Trail Maintenance

Mark Bankes will lead his delayed “April Fool’s Hike” which has become a trail maintenance excursion on the Horseshoe Trail section that the Berks Community Hiking Club maintains periodically. If you want to give back to the environment, join us and bring garden tools with you. Loppers, nippers, pruning saws, sickles or any other tools you may have, will be of help. The growth has been lush, so we will have our work “cut out” for us (no pun intended). Wear gloves and sturdy shoes; carry water, energy snacks and lots of good humor. Lunch afterwards is optional.

Meeting place: 10:00 A.M. @ Horseshoe Trailhead off Route 625 (New Holland Rd.)

just below Knauers, Pa.

For further information or directions, contact: 610-589-5575

Thursday May 13, 2010 - Nolde Forest

Rudy & Annelies Visser will lead a hike of 5 – 6 or maybe 7 miles in the lovely Nolde Forest. There are a couple of very steep hills, so wear sturdy shoes. We will visit the mansion and have lunch outside on the mansion grounds. The leaders will provide the sandwiches, but bring your own drinks. Peace and happy hiking to all, is the wish of the leaders.

Meeting place: 9:00 A.M. @ Sawmill Parking Lot of Nolde Forest off Route 625.

For further information or directions, contact: 610-777-4223

Thursday May 6, 2010 - Fair Hill Natural Resource Management Area

Ellen K., KATHY H. & KAY W. will lead a hike to Fair Hill Natural Resource Management Area, Elkton, MD. This horse farm was once owned by the DuPont family of Delaware. Today it contains over 100 miles of equestrian/bike/hike trails. Keep in mind that horses have the right of way. Our hike will be exactly 5.5 miles and will begin by crossing over a historic covered bridge and trek through a forest and

historic farm roads. There are a few short hills to negotiate for our “pleasure”. The Three Hikerteers hope you join them for lunch, since they have discovered another great eating place. They enjoyed the reasonably priced soup and salad bar, but if it is a meal you wish, the restaurant offers a varied menu. Great coffee too!

Meeting place: 9:00 A.M. @ the Dollar Store in Kenhorst Shopping Plaza, Junctions 625 and 724, to carpool.

Note: The drive is approximately 53 miles from the meeting point to the trailhead via a lovely drive through southern Pennsylvania. There is a parking fee of $4.00 per car.

Contacts: Ellen 610-775-2677, Kathy 610-603-9461 or Kay

610-796-7602.

Thursday April 29, 2010 - Lititz Springs Park

Jeanne Schopf will lead a ~5 mile hike in Lititz, Lancaster County.

The hike begins in Lititz Springs Park, located off Route 501 N (Broad St.),

beside the Wilbur Chocolate Factory. Traverse through the town to an overlook

and depending on the weather and wishes of the group our leader could extend

this hike even further. There are some nice places to eat lunch afterwards without

having to drive anywhere.

1st Meeting place: 9:00 A.M. @ Ollie’s parking lot in Shillington at Junction of

business route 222 and route 724 to carpool.

2nd Meeting place: 10:00 A.M. @ Lititz Springs Park parking lot. It’s the 1st lot you

come to after entering the park off Rte. 501N.

Driving directions: Take Rte. 222 South and exit at

Brownstown/Rothsville (Rte 772 West). This will take you into Lititz through

Rothsville. When you get to the center of Lititz turn right on Rte.501 and almost

immediately turn left into Lititz Springs Park.

Contact: 717-381-6988 (cell phone) or 717-626-0674 (home).

Thursday April 22, 2010 - French Creek State Park

Herb Van Horn will lead a ~5 mile hike in French Creek State Park.
This is a moderate woodland hike on trails with some rocky sections and a few
uphill climbs in the Baptism Creek area. Once a favorite picnic area of the past,
now just a forest, except for the old concession stand where visitors could
purchase food. Since the hike will begin at the Hopewell Furnace we will explore
some of the historic sites and view the wild flowers in bloom. Lunch after the hike
for the hungry ones is optional.
Meeting Place: 10:00 A.M. @ Hopewell Furnace parking lot beside the Visitor’s Ctr.
Contact: 610-286-688

Thursday April 15, 2010 - Boyd Big Tree Conservation Area, Dauphin County

ELLEN KONECNY, KATHY HENGEN & KAY WILLIAMS
(‘The Three Hikerteers”) will lead a ~ 6 mile trek in one of PA’s newest state
parks: the BOYD BIG TREE CONSERVATION AREA, Dauphin County.
Trails are mostly easy walking on old coach and gravel roads, except one
moderately steep, rocky climb. The hike leads through a mountain forest rich
with second growth oaks, hickories and beeches – home to deep forest birds,
including woodpeckers, evidenced by the many holes found in trees. Be on the
lookout for amphibians on this early spring day when we visit the spring-fed
pond. After the hike, hungry hikers can opt to partake in lunch at Esther’s
Restaurant in Fredericksburg.
Note: Distance to trailhead from our meeting place is approx. 60 miles.
If you want to drive direct, Big Boyd is located on Fishing Creek Valley Rd.,
Harrisburg. Using a GPS the coordinate would be the intersection of Fishing
Creek Valley Rd. & Frog Hollow Rd. Approach from the west off route
322/22 the entrance will be on the right immediately past Frog Hollow Rd.
From the east, the entrance will be on your left just before Frog Hollow Rd.
Meeting Place: 9:00 A.M. @ Boyer’s IGA Market in Womelsdorf at jct. of routes 419 &
422. (Park away and in rear of the market, off Route 419 side).
Contact: Ellen 610-775-2677, Kathy 610-603-9461, Kay 610-796-7602

Thursday April 8, 2010 - Upper Bern Township

Ann Reinhart will lead a ~5 mile hike in Upper Bern Township, Berks Cty.
Begin hiking from the Blue Mt. Family Restaurant in Shartlesville and hike along
the Northkill Creek to Green Acres Golf Course, then do an “about face” to return
to our starting point. Lunch is optional afterwards at the restaurant.
1st Meeting Place: 9:15 A.M. @ Redner’s Market in Leesport off Rte. 61N to carpool.
2nd Meeting Place: 10:00 A.M. @ Blue Mt. family Restaurant in Shartlesville (West end
of the lot).
Contact: 610-488-6378

Thursday April 1, 2010 - Maiden Creek

Al Napoletano will lead a hike of ~7 miles along the Maiden Creek in
Ontelaunee Township. The hike is woodland walking and also road walking.
This is an easy, scenic and relaxing outdoor venture. See the over flow of
Ontelaunee Lake, the Blue Falls and the Berkleigh Water Works (filtering
plant for Reading’s water supply). Lunch afterwards is optional.
Meeting Place: 10:00 A.M. @ the dam breast parking lot off Route 73.
Directions: Take Route 61 north to jct. 73, turn right, go to dam breast
parking lot on right side of road just before the bridge over the spillway.
Telephone: 610-929-9694

Thursday March 25 - Wernersville to Robesonia

Gerry & Willie Kramer will lead a 5.5-mile loop road walk from Wernersville to Robesonia, and up the South Mountain. We will be hiking parallel to Rt. 422 in Berks County on very long, high hills – one up and one down. Wear orange to alert motorists. Lunch after the hike is optional.

Meeting place: 10:00 A.M. @Wernersville State Hospital off Rt. 422 West. (Park in the 1st lot, close to the railroad on the left side.)

Contact: 610-678-5245

Thursday March 18 - Goggleworks to Gring's Mill

Ellen Konecny will lead a hike from the Goggleworks to Grings Mill,

in Berks County.

Details will be forthcoming.

Thursday March11, 2010 - Ridley Creek State Park

Kathy Hengen will lead a hike of 6.5 miles in Ridley Creek State Park, Delaware County. Hike on macadam and woodland trails. See an old farmhouse and barn foundations. There is a heated restroom and a mansion with gardens featuring champion black oak and pin oak trees. There will be a place to eat that Les will love and coffee that Al will enjoy. (Probably costs $2.50 a cup!)

NOTE: Distance to trailhead from our meeting point is 44 miles.

Meeting place: 9:30 A.M. @Kenhorst Shopping Center between Dairy Queen and the Dollar Store off Rts. 625 & 724.

Contact: 610-603-9461

Thursday March 4, 2010

KAY WILLIAMS will lead a previously snowed-out 5 mile hike (originally scheduled December 31st!) in the MONACACY HILL RECREATION AREA of Berks County. A few changes will be noticed for those who have not visited the "hill" lately! The township is the current authority and bright colored blazes have been placed on trees for easier trail hiking! Many of the trees now have identification tags and kiosks describing important historical facts have been placed at various points along the trail. There is one uphill climb to the summit but the reward it a GREAT view! From the summit, the Pagoda atop Mt. Penn and the surrounding countryside can be seen. Optional lunch afterwards for those who are famished!
Meeting place: 10:00am at Monacacy Hill Geiger Road parking lot.
Contact: 610-796-7602

Thursday February 25, 2010

AL NAPOLETANO will lead a hike of approx. 5 miles along the MAIDEN CREEK in Berks County's Ontelaunee Township. Mostly woodland walking with some road as well. We'll see the overflow of Ontelaunee Lake, Blue Falls, and Berkleigh Water Works. This is a scenic area and a relaxing outdoor venture. Post-hike lunch is optional for any hungry hikers!
Meeting place: 10:00am at the Dam Breast parking lot of Lake Ontelaunee off route 73.
Directions: Take route 61 North to junction 73, turn right, go to dam breast parking lot on right side of road just before the bridge of the spillway.
Contact: 610-929-9694

Thursday February 18, 2010

KAY WILLIAMS & EDNA PARR will repeat a non-shuttle hike of approx. 5 miles along the WYOMISSING CREEK TRAIL INTO MOHNTON. This hike traverses over trails, roads, and through area parks in a scenic section of Berks County. Optional lunch afterwards for the hungry ones!
Meeting place: 10:00am on the parking lot of Ollie's at Business routes 222 & 724 in Shillington.
Contact: 610-796-7602 or 610-373-8625

Thursday February 11, 2010

KATHY HENGEN will lead a 4.5 mile hike on country roads WEST of FLYING HILLS in Berks County. This is a new hiking area for some of us. Use caution since road shoulder is narrow and wear orange to alert motorists. Be aware of some of the hills, this is Pennsylvania, you know! Lunch anyone??
Meeting place: 10:00am at the Brentwood parking lot off route 10 to carpool to the Flying Hills starting point.
Contact: 610-603-9461

Thursday February 4, 2010

ELLEN KONECNY will lead an approx. 5 mile hike along THE WYOMISSING CREEK in Berks County. This is usually very scenic, pleasant, and easy walking. Lunch afterwards is optional for anyone interested in regaining calories!
Meeting place: 10:00am at the Wyomissing Creek parking lot off Lancaster Ave. in Shillington (Behind the WAWA near Bus Rtes 222 & 724).
Contact: 610-775-2677

Thursday January 28, 2010

Norm Williams will lead an approximately 5 mile hike in the Laureldale Borough & Muhlenberg Township that includes Temple Village in Berks County. Various terrain hiking on roads, streets, rail-to-trail and some woodland trail. Lunch is optional at an agreed upon restaurant after the hike.
Meeting place: 10:00am at the Muhlenberg Swimming Association. Parking on Darby Ave. off 5th Street Highway (Bus. Rte. 222) - not on the swimming pool lot.
Contact: 610-921-0473