Thursday December 31, 2015 - Leesport

YOU will lead a hike of not more than 5 miles. YOU will be chosen by the attending group. YOU may suggest where to lunch after the hike, but the group will decide. By a majority of show of hands the decision will be made, as to where to lunch.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Redner’s Market parking lot off Rte. 61 in Leesport.

TELEPHONE: Al 610-929-9694 with questions.

The Maiden Creek below Ontelaunee Lake dam.

Thursday Dec 24, 2015 - Neversink

LES will lead a hike of 5.5 to 6 miles on the Neversink Mountain Preserve. This is as easy as Neversink gets. The hike begins at the Forest Hills Cemetery and takes the slow rail incline around the mountain. After a stop at the Witches Hat, we return using the Promenade and Upper Glen Trails. With leaves off the trees we'll have great views of the Schuylkill, Reading, and the hills in the distance.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ the pond in Forest Hills Memorial Park.

TELEPHONE: Les 610-323-1703 with questions.

Thursday Dec 17, 2015 - Monocacy Hill

MARGARET will lead a 5 mile hike at Monocacy Hill Recreation Area. This is a pleasant wooded area with nice trails and affords a good view from the top of the hill. Wear good hiking shoes and carry water and a snack, if desired. Lunch is optional later.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. at Boscov's East parking lot in the northeast corner away from store.

TELEPHONE: Margaret 610-779-8393 with any questions.

Thursday Dec 10, 2015 - French Creek

HERB has planned a 5-6 mile moderate late fall hike through the Baptism Creek Natural Area and French Creek S P. We will walk on woodland trails, the Horse Shoe Trail and country roads. We will traverse a local lover's lane, pass an historic cemetery, where those interested in old tombstones may check them out and end up back at our cars. Lunch afterwards is an option.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. At the Shed Road parking lot off of Route 345.

TELEPHONE: Herb at 610-286-6886 with questions.

Thursday Dec 3, 2015 - Antietam Lake

Les will lead the 5.5 mile zigzag hike from Antietam Lake. The Red Blaze and the Yellow Blaze trails lead from the Antietam Lake parking lot to Kuechler's Roost, roughly paralleling each other. A number of cross trails connect them. How many? What color blazes do they have? At this time of year, the terrain between these blazes will be visible. We will take each of the cross trails as we climb the hill above Antietam. There will be a side trip past the 'Man Cave.' After reaching Kuechler's Roost, the return is via the former Angora Fruit Farm. Lunch will be optional afterwards.

MEET: 10 AM @ Antietam Lake parking lot.

TELEPHONE: Les 610-323-1703 with questions.

Thursday Nov 26, 2015 - Wyomissing Creek

KAY wants us to enjoy a hike along Wyomissing Creek and work up an appetite to further enjoy that turkey and filling. The hike will be approximately 5 miles and travels on trails, roads, and fields of the area. Always dress appropriately for weather conditions. If it rains, there’s a possibility to get our feet wet.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Wyomissing Creek parking lot off Lancaster Ave in Shillington. (The location is behind WAWA near bus. rte. 222 and rte. 724).

TELEPHONE: Kay 610-796-7602 with questions.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY 2015!!

Thursday Nov 19, 2015 - Pinnacle

MARGARET will lead a hike to the Pinnacle of 6 - 7 miles. This hike will omit Pulpit Rock and shortens the distance to the Pinnacle by ascending the Red Trail. November will give us leaves off views of the best Appalachian Trail lookout in Berks County. If there is inclement weather, we will circle the Hamburg reservoir on various trails. Wear sturdy shoes, carry water and a snack, if desired. Lunch stop after the hike is optional

MEET: 9:30 A.M.@ Hamburg Reservoir parking lot.

TELEPHONE: Margaret 610-779-8393 if any questions.

Thursday Nov 12, 2015 - Appalachian Trail to Shubert's Gap

ELLEN & HERB have mapped out a 6-7 mile moderate hike on the Appalachian Trail. We will hike to Shubert's Gap where springs of water cascade into a pond on the mountain. Expect some rocks and hills. Many local hikers consider this one of their favorite areas on the AT! Water and snack are advised.

MEET: 9:30AM at the game land parking lot off of Route 183 on the right before you reach the top of the mountain. Lunch afterwards is an option.

TELEPHONE: Ellen 610-775-2677 or Herb 610-286 6886 with any questions.

Thursday Nov 5, 2015 - Leesport

GERRY & WILLIE will lead a ~6 mile hike in the Leesport area and on new sections of the Schuylkill River Trail. We will hike along dirt roads, macadam paths and some sidewalks. We will check out the two new sections of the SRT and walk around Leesport. Lunch afterwards is an option.

MEET: 9:45 A.M. @ Redner’s Market parking lot in Leesport off Rte. 61.

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

Thursday Oct 29, 2015 - Wildwood Park, Harrisburg

FELICIA (Al’s daughter) wants us to take a trip west to the state capital and enjoy the wetlands, lake and sanctuary at Wildwood Park. This 3.5 mile circle hike around the lake is divided between easy and moderate difficulty. There is an additional .25 mile difficult add on where we can challenge ourselves, if we desire.

This hike includes some boardwalk areas leading into the wetland and bird blinds. The last mile and a half of the hike is a flat towpath trail (1 mile) followed by a half mile boardwalk. Wildwood Park is located just off I 81 near the Farm Show Complex and Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC). The address is 100 Wildwood Way, Harrisburg, Pa. 17110.

1st MEET: 8:45 A.M. @ Church Rd. parking lot of Blue Marsh off Rte. 183 to carpool to Harrisburg.

2nd MEET: 10:30 A.M. @ Benjimin Olewine lll Nature Center parking lot. We can use the facilities there before venturing out onto the trail. Following this hike we will head east toward Hershey for a prepared lunch at the home of Al's daughter, Felicia. Please RSVP to fpaymer@msn.com by October 22nd if you are planning to attend this hike so I can get an accurate count for seating and meal planning. Felicia's home is in Hummelstown Pa. 17036.

TELEPHONE: Felicia cell 717-576-6881 or Al cell 610-406-1366 if questions.

Thursday October 22, 2015 - Tuscarora State Park

MARGARET will lead a hike of 5 miles in Tuscarora State Park. This Schuylkill County park offers beautiful views of Tuscarora Lake with rhododendron thickets and colorful foliage. Dress accordingly and carry water and snacks, if desired. Lunch is an option after the hike for those wishing to participate.

MEET: 9:00 A.M. @ Redner’s Market off route 61 in Leesport.

TELEPHONE: Margaret 610-779-8393 with questions.

Thursday October 15, 2015 - Roaring Creek

LES will lead a hike of up to 8 miles at Roaring Creek Valley. This is a watershed north of Centralia along Route 42. Three lakes adjoin an 8 mile trail that runs from Route 42 to Route 54. We will attempt to walk half way, and then retrace our steps to the starting point. A subsequent hike may be planned from the opposite direction. This is a relatively flat walk on a wide trail at the base of two mountains, somewhat similar to Gold Mine Rd. For those looking for a shorter walk, it is easy to turn around at any time. Inclement weather will cause this hike to be deferred, and a hike at Blue Marsh will be substituted.

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

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

Thursday October 8, 2015 - Womelsdorf

GERRY & WILLIE will lead a 5 mile hike on the roads in the Womelsdorf area, not hilly. We will see the Union Canal and perhaps remains of a lock, the old Reed Homestead, the Church and the Cemetery. Dress for a lovely fall day??? An optional lunch stop afterwards somewhere.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ McDonald’s large parking lot off Rte. 419. Traveling west on Rte. 422 turn left at the light of Jct.419.

TELEPHONE: Gerry or Willie if you have questions.

Thursday October 1, 2015 - Blue Marsh

BRENDA will lead a 5-6 mile hike around Skinner's Loop at Blue Marsh Lake. Hike on trails in this area. Lunch somewhere afterwards, as usual.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ the parking lot on Church Rd. off Rte. 183 N. Rain cancels this hike -
if weather is questionable, call hike leader.

TELEPHONE: Brenda at 610-488-7176.

Thursday Sept 24, 2015 - Warwick County Park

JOHN & HERB invite you to walk a 5-6 mile loop at Warwick County Park. We will walk through the wildflower meadows, along French Creek and circle back to the starting place. Please plan to bring an extra pair of shoes. We may need to wade across the creek at the end of the hike! It will be fun. Lunch after the hike is an option.

MEET: 9:00 A.M. @ Clock Tower parking lot off Route 23 in Morgantown to car pool to the starting point.

TELEPHONE: John at 610-322-9670 or Herb at 610-286-6886 with questions.

Thursday Sept 17, 2015 - 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’s Park, and reaches a turnaround point at Mineral Spring Park. After returning to Egelman’s Park, other trails will be taken to return to the Tower. This last portion of the hike will depend on how far we have already gone and the weather conditions. There is a lunch option after the hike.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. at the Fire Tower on Skyline Drive.

TELEPHONE: Les 610-323-1703 with questions.

Thursday Sept 10, 2015 - Schuylkill Haven

GERRY & WILLIE will lead a ~ 6 mile hike in Schuylkill Haven. We will hike around the town along trails, roads and sidewalks. Views include the island, parks, the river and Willie’s football field at the school. There will be hills but, sneakers should be fine to wear on this hike. Lunch is optional somewhere.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Blue Marsh Church Rd. parking area off Rte. 183.

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

Thursday Sept 3, 2015 - French Creek

GROVER (DICK) will lead a 4 to 5 mile hike in the Hopewell Furnace National Park. This hike is mostly on various woodland trails in French Creek State Park and the historic area of Hopewell Furnace. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear good hiking shoes. Optional lunch stop afterwards somewhere.


MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Hopewell Furnace National Park Visitor’s Center off Rte. 345.

TELEPHONE: Grover’s Cell 860-861-5681 with questions.

Thursday August 27, 2015 - Money Rocks

HERB has planned a 5-6 mile hike in the Welsh Mountain Preserve near Narvon. There are some new trails and a new parking lot has been built. Expect some rocks and hills. We will visit at the nearby Community Center Park which is a hidden jewel on the mountain. We will stop at the September Cheese Farm to watch cheese in the making. Lunch will be optional afterwards.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ the parking lot off Route 10 across from the Windmill Restaurant.

TELEPHONE: Herb at 610-286-6886 for any further details.

Thursday August 13, 2015 - Leesport Area

“YOU” will lead a hike, not to exceed 5 miles, somewhere in the vicinity. “YOU” will be chosen by the attending group’s unanimous decision. Then, the chosen leader will determine the trails in the area to be hiked. Dress appropriately, wear sturdy shoes, and carry water, sun screen and insect repellant. An optional lunch stop, after the hike, will be determined by those wishing to dine.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Redner’s Leesport Market parking lot off Route 61.

TELEPHONE: Al 610-929-9694 or cell 610-406-1366 day of event, if necessary.

Thursday August 6, 2015 - Wyomissing Creek

KAY wants you to take a hike along Wyomissing Creek into Mohnton and back. This approximate 5 miles is on trails, roads and parks of the area. Part of this hike may become an extension of the Wyomissing Creek Trail eventually If it rains the previous day, it could be a little muddy so dress for the occasion. Also, you may want to carry water, sunscreen and insect repellant. Lunch is optional after the hike for those interested in dining.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Ollie’s parking lot in Shillington off Bus. Rte. 222 at the Jct. of Bus. Rte. 222 & 724.

TELEPHONE: Kay 610-796-7602 with questions.

Thursday July 30, 2015 - Robesonia

GERRY & WILLIE will lead the Robesonia Reservoir Hike. We will hike thru Robesonia Borough viewing some Historical Areas and then ascend to the reservoir. Yes, up a hill. Sidewalks, roads and gravel walkways will take us to the reservoir and return. I guess about 5+ miles round trip. Lunch after wards is optional.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Conrad Weiser Middle School in west end parking lot near house and up closest to rte. 422. We will start our hike from here.

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

Thursday July 23, 2015 - Birdsboro Watershed

LES will lead a hike of about 6.25 miles through the lower end of the Birdsboro Watershed. We begin on the Geigertown side of the Watershed on Hay Creek Rd and walk away from the watershed on roads for about 1 3/4 miles until reaching the Horseshoe Trail. The Horseshoe Trail takes us into the watershed. Local trails are used to arrive at the reservoir, from which we head back to the starting point.

MEET: 9:30 AM @ parking area on Hay Creek Rd (former Route 82), north of Geigertown, .8 mile north of where Mullen Hollow Rd ends at Hay Creek Rd.

DIRECTIONS: From the traffic light in Gibralter at the Turkey Hill, travel east on Route 724 1.2 miles. Take the first right turn at the sign for Hillcrest Hall Bingo, 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: Les 610-323-1703 with any questions.

Thursday July 16, 2015 - Six Penny

HERB has planned a 5-6 mile hike in the Six Penny area of French Creek State Park. We will head into the cooler, deep woods and visit this abandoned park that once was a swimming area filled with picnic tables, and pavilions. Everything is now gone but the memories of those who once visited here! There will be some hills and rocks, but we are hikers. Lunch after is optional

MEET: 9:00 A.M. @ the parking lot of Scott's Run Lake.

TELEPHONE: Herb at 610-286-6886 with any questions.

Thursday July 9, 2015 - Shillington Park

ANNELIES & RUDY will lead a hike in Shillington Park. We are hoping to make it a 4 or maybe 5 mile hike within the park and surroundings. We will try again, not to get lost, There are hills, of course, so wear good shoes, carry enough water, insect repellant, hats, etc. etc,

MEET: 9:.00 A.M. @ the parking lot of the Kenhorst pool in Shillington off Route 724. Make a left where there are tennis courts.

TELEPHONE: Annelies or Rudy at 610-777-4223 with questions.

Thursday July 2, 2015 - Mt Gretna

MIKE will lead a 6 to 7 mile hike in The Clarence Schock Memorial Park at Governor Dick in Mt. Gretna, Lebanon, Pa. Bring water and personal snacks. There will be hills and stones to contend with; however; this is a nice wooded trail hike. There are several places in the area for a lunch stop later.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Boyer's Market, Rtes. 422 and 419 in Womelsdorf where we can carpool to Governor Dick Park Headquarters on Pinch Road.

TELEPHONE: Mike at 717-949-2056 with questions.

Thursday June 25, 2015 - Trail Magic

ELLEN & HERB have planned to do a “Trail-Magic” event on the AT north of Reading. It will be a picnic for the Through Hikers and the Wanderers. Also, a 5-6 mile AT hike is an option for the Wanderers. The event will be held rain or shine. Contact Herb for location information.

TELEPHONE: Ellen at 610-775-2677 to coordinate the food and drinks for the picnic. Call Herb 610-286-6886 with other questions.

Thursday June 18, 2015 - Reading

KAY will lead a hike from the Reading Public Museum via the new 3rd and Spruce Trail to 5th and Penn Streets. Come to see the Farmer’s Market and Mike Faust, of WEEU Feedback fame, broadcasting live radio from this location. There will also be a rest stop at the Goggleworks. Total distance is 5 miles.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ The Reading Public Museum parking area.

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

Thursday June 11, 2015 - Horseshoe Trail Cleanup

MARK is coordinating a Horseshoe Trail Clean-up. This event occurs on the section of the trail that BCHC periodically maintains, being from Knauers to Adamstown. Trail maintenance is an opportunity to give back to the community and is greatly appreciated. So, come with a smile and a sense of humor and don’t forget to bring the usual tools and work gloves. Carry water and a snack, if desired, but a lunch stop afterwards is a good possibility.

MEET: 9:00 A.M. @ Kenhorst Shopping Plaza, Rtes. 724 & 625 in the lot in front of Dairy Queen.

TELEPHONE: Mark’s cell 484-824-2740 if any questions.

Thursday June 4, 2015 - Laurel Locks

LES will lead a 6 to 6.5 mile hike through and around the historic and scenic Laurel Locks Farm near Pottstown. This hike is fairly flat, but has some hills.

MEET: 9:30 Coventry Mall, close to Route 724, opposite the entrance to Boscov's.

TELEPHONE: Les 610-323-1703 with questions.

Thursday May 28, 2015 - Monocacy Hill

KAY wants you to join the group for a nice spring hike on Monocacy Hill. There should be plenty of spring flowers in bloom this time of year. Be aware that there is one uphill climb to the summit; however, the reward is a great view. Also take note there may be some wet spots if it rains before the hike date. Distance should be in 5 mile range.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Monocacy Hill, Geiger Road parking lot.

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

Thursday May 21, 2015 - Kenilworth Park / Towpath Park

LES will lead a 5 mile hike from Kenilworth Park in North Coventry Township, Chester County, to and through Towpath Park in East Coventry Township and return. This will be a nice walk along the Schuylkill River, but also some road walking, uneven fields, and muddy spots. This hike is relatively flat.

MEET: 9:45 A.M. @ Coventry Mall, close to Route 724, opposite the entrance to Boscov's.

TELEPHONE: Les 610-323-1703 with questions.

Thursday May 14, 2015 - Exeter Scenic River Trail

KAY will lead a hike on the Exeter Scenic River Trail. We will start at Gibraltar Road and hike to Forest Hills Cemetery. Then a pleasant walk thru Forest Hills and road walk back to the trail (about ~6 miles). Expect to see many wildflowers in bloom this time of year. Dress for wet conditions, especially if it rains before the hike, and wear orange for road walking.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ the parking lot along Gibraltar Road in Exeter Township.

DIRECTIONS: Coming from Shillington on route 724, turn left onto Gibraltar Road at traffic light by Turkey Hill. Lot will be on left after crossing the Schuylkill River. Coming from route 422, turn onto W 47th Street and continue as it becomes Gibraltar Road. Parking will be on right immediately after you drive under the railroad.

TELEPHONE: Kay at 610-796-7602 if you have questions.

Thursday May 7, 2015 - Hopewell Furnace

GROVER will lead a hike in the Hopewell Furnace National Park. This 5 to 6 mile hike is mostly on various woodland trails in French Creek State Park and the Historic area of Hopewell Furnace. It should be pleasant hiking this early in May. Optional lunch stop afterwards somewhere.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Hopewell Furnace National Park Visitor’s Center off Rte. 345.

TELEPHONE: Grover’s Cell 860-861-5681 with any questions.

Thursday April 30, 2015 - Swatara Creek

HERB invites you to enjoy a hike along the Swatara Creek Rail Trail near Pine Grove. This is a 7 mile walk that completes the second part of the trail. The trail is mostly level with no rocks. We will likely see some spring wildflowers. After crossing the new iron bridge the trail returns to the starting point off Swopes Valley Road. Lunch afterwards is optional.

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

TELEPHONE: Herb 610-286-6886 with any questions.

Thursday April 23, 2015 - Windsor Castle Roads

GERRY, with Willie will lead the Windsor Castle road hike. This 5 mile loop starts at the Zion Church. We will see a huge view at the bottom of a huge hill, of the village of Windsor Castle, not in England! We will hear some childhood stories; memories from the leader. There will be more hills and views of the countryside; and a “photo-op” at the school house. We will end at the gravesite of the leader. Lunch afterwards is an option.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Redner’s Mkt. parking lot off Rte. 61 in Leesport to carpool.

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

Thursday April 16, 2015 - Mt Gretna

MICHAEL will lead a 5 mile hike in The Clarence Schock Memorial Park at Governor Dick, Mt. Gretna, Lebanon, Pa. Bring water and personal snacks. There will be hills and stones to contend with. This is a nice woodland trail hike. There are several places in the area to stop for an optional lunch after the hike.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Boyer's Market, Jct. 422 & 419, in Womelsdorf and carpool to Governor Dick parking on Route 117

TELEPHONE: Mike at 717-949-2056 with questions.

Thursday April 9, 2015 - Shartlesville

ANN tries again. She will lead a ~ 5 mile hike in the Shartlesville Area. This mostly road hike will be along the Northkill Creek at the base of the Blue Mountains. Enjoy the walk and an optional late lunch at the Blue Mountain Family Restaurant later. Please call leader if weather is questionable.

MEET: 11:30 A.M. @ Blue Mt. Family Restaurant, west end of the Parking lot.

TELEPHONE: Ann at 610-488-6378 with any questions

Thursday April 2, 2015 - Leesport Vicinity

“YOU” will lead a hike, not to exceed 6 miles, somewhere in the vicinity. “YOU” will be chosen by the attending group’s unanimous decision. Then, the chosen leader will determine the trails in the area and the approximate miles to be hiked. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes and carry water. An optional lunch location after hiking will be determined by the “majority rules system”.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Redner’s Market parking lot off Route 61 in Leesport.

TELEPHONE: Al at 610-929-9694 with questions.

Thursday March 26, 2015 - Shoemakersville

GERRY & WILLIE will lead a 6 mile road walk in the countryside of Shoemakersville and Perry Township. There are rolling hills and pleasant views. The farmer allows walkers to cross the field for FREE, but the bull CHARGES, so we will stick to road walking!! Dress for the weather; carry water and snack, if desired. There will be an optional lunch stop after the hike.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Kuzan’s Hardware Store along Route 61, located past the Jct. of 61 & 662 on the right side travelling north. Park on far left of store in rear parking lot.

TELEPHONE: Gerry or Willie 610-678-5245, if questionable.

Thursday March 19, 2015 - Struble Lake Area

JOHN & HERB have planned a 5-6 mile road hike in the Strubble Lake/St. Mary's area south of Elverson. We will visit Strubble Lake and make a brief stop at a working fish hatchery. We will walk by the restored Laungoma Mansion. This historic area has many old stone houses, barns and mills. It was once a part of the iron industry that once thrived here. This is a moderate walk with some hills and no rocks! Lunch afterwards is an option.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Livingood Park on Route 82 south near Elverson.

TELEPHONE: John 610-322-9670 or Herb 610-286-6886 with questions

Thursday March 12, 2015 - Blue Marsh

MARGARET will lead a 4 – 5 mile hike in the Blue Marsh area. We will hike the Skinner’s Loop Trail with views of the scenic lake and could possibly get to view the Eagle’s Nest, as well. Dress for the weather and wear good hiking shoes, carry water, as usual and enjoy the day. A lunch stop after the hike is an option.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Church Road parking area of Blue Marsh off Route 183.

TELEPHONE: Margaret at 610-779-8393 with questions.

Thursday March 5, 2015 - Shartlesville Roads

ANN will lead a ~ 5 mile hike in the Shartlesville Area. This mostly road hike will be along the Northkill Creek at the base of the Blue Mountains. Enjoy the walk and an optional late lunch at the Blue Mountain Family Restaurant later.

MEET: 11:30 A.M. @ Blue Mt. Family Restaurant west end of the Parking lot.

TELEPHONE: Ann at 610-488-6378 with any questions.

Thursday February 26, 2015 - Mohnton & Green Hills Nature Preserve

KAY & KATHY will lead a two part 5.8 mile hike.
FIRST PART: Enjoy hiking thru lovely back roads with a few small hills and farm lands of MOHNTON for a distance of 4.2 miles (clocked by car).
SECOND PART: Enjoy a beautiful 1.6 mile walk thru woods and corn fields of Green Hills Nature Preserve. Green Hills is one of the newest Preserves of The National Land Trust (www.natlands.org). Dress appropriately for conditions and consider blaze orange for road walking and hunting.

MEET: 9:30 A.M. @ Rear of Dairy Queen in Kenhorst Shopping Plaza, Jct. 625 & 724 to car pool to site.

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

Thursday February 19, 2015 - Birdsboro Watershed

JODY will lead a 4-5 mile hike in the Birdsboro Watershed, beginning at the parking lot on Hay Creek Road that is across from the old White Bear Inn. We will walk on a woods trail along the northwest side of the creek to the old quarry and the climbing wall which soars above it. We will not be climbing the wall itself but walking on a level trail on a wide ledge next to the rock face. If there has been precipitation followed by freezing and then milder temperatures, we should see magnificent stalactites of ice. We will then walk down to the quarry lake via a wide paved road to view the lake and wall from the bottom. If the trail is icy, we will walk along the road to get to the quarry. This hike is mainly on flat ground.

MEET at 10:00 A.M. at the White Bear Inn parking lot. Parking is limited so please carpool.

TELEPHONE: Jody at 610-286-8913 with any questions.

Thursday February 12, 2015 - Crow's Nest

JOHN and HERB have mapped a 5-6 mile winter hike in the other part of Crow's Nest Nature Preserve. We will walk on the Horse Shoe Trail and side trails passing stone quarries, historic homesteads and old rail beds. A stop at the visitors centre to warm up is planned. Expect some up and downs and rocks. If the weather is questionable call John or Herb. Lunch afterwards is an option.

MEET: 9:30 AM @ the Hopewell Visitors Centre off of Route 345. We will be shuttling to a game land parking lot.

TELEPHONE: John at 610-322-9670 or Herb at 610-286-6886 with questions.

Thursday February 5, 2015 - Shoemakersville

GERRY & WILLIE will lead a 6 mile road walk in the countryside of Shoemakersville and Perry Township. There are rolling hills and pleasant views. The farmer allows walkers to cross the field for FREE, but the bull CHARGES, so we will stick to road walking!! Dress for the weather; carry water and snack, if desired. There will be an optional lunch stop after the hike.

MEET: 10:00 A.M. @ Kuzan’s Hardware Store along Route 61, located past the Jct. of 61 & 662 on the right side travelling north. Park on far left of store in rear parking lot.

TELEPHONE: Gerry or Willie 610-678-5245, if questionable.

Thursday January 29,2015 - Douglass Township

This hike, primarily on roads through Douglass Township, Berks County, begins in Ironstone Park. Here you can view an old time trestle bridge still used by the Colebrookdale Railroad. The hike begins along the Ironstone Creek and follows 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. The return to the starting point mostly repeats the same roads. If roads are unsuited for walking, a fallback hike on the Schuylkill River Trail is likely. Lunch is optional afterwards.

MEET: 9:30 AM @ Redner's in Douglassville, Routes 422W and 662 for a 6 mile ride to the starting location.

LEADER: Les 610-323-1703 if any questions.

Thursday January 22, 2015 - Enola Low Grade Rail Trail

KAY & KATHY want you to enjoy a walk along the Susquehanna River. Hike on the Enola Low Grade Rail Trail located in Manor Township, Lancaster County. This entire length of trail is gravel rail trail and is alongside the Susquehanna River, so please dress appropriately for the weather and terrain. We will walk approximately three miles downstream to see a waterfall and three miles back upstream for a total six mile hike. Lunch afterwards is optional.

MEET: 9:00 AM. @ Ollie’s on Lancaster Pike in Shillington (GPS: 2251 Lancaster Pike, Shillington, PA). ROUTE: Takes 45 minutes and is 41 miles to destination (GPS: 2459 River Road, Washington Borough, PA).

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

Thursday January 15, 2015 - Neversink

LES will lead a hike of close to 5.5 miles on Neversink Mountain. The hike begins with a climb of the Cove Trail which will be taken to its end at a rocky overlook above the Schuylkill. We return, then cut across to the north side of Neversink where a stop will be made at the McIlvain Pavilion. The hike continues with a partial loop around the east side of Neversink before returning via the Glen Trail. Lunch is optional afterwards.

MEET: 10 AM at the pond in Forest Hills Memorial Park

TELEPHONE: Les 610-323-1703 with questions.