An Essential Guide to South Mountain in Lehigh Valley, PA

Prepare for the rocky and forested splendor of South Mountain, which shares slopes with Bethlehem, Allentown, Emmaus, and Hellertown. Hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts will enjoy traversing along gravel trails, forested areas, and winding waterways. Hear the call of the birds as sunlight breaks through the mass of leaves above a trail. Bring your binoculars and camera for wildlife viewing, or pack the fishing gear for a quiet moment by a creek. South Mountain is brimming with adventures, and that first step on a trail is just the beginning.

Locations & Hours

• Wildlands Conservancy’s South Mountain Preserve | Alpine St Trail, Emmaus, PA 18049 | Open 24 Hours
• South Mountain Trail | Reservoir Dr, Allentown, PA 18103 | Monday - Sunday, 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
• South Mountain Park | 1515 Mountain Dr N, Bethlehem, PA 18015 | Monday - Sunday, 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
• South Mountain Reservoir | 2900 S. 10th St. Allentown, PA 18103 | Monday - Sunday, 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
• South Mountain Big Rock Park | 560 E Rock Rd, Allentown, PA 18103 | 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Trail Map

Explore the trails of South Mountain with a map from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources here.

Parking

There are several parking locations near South Mountain, including lots by Klines Lane and the Ithaca Play Lot. Explore parking lot options on the official website of the Wildlands Conservancy here.

Fee

Entrance to South Mountain is free for all visitors.

Cell Service

Cellular service can be spotty on higher slopes and places with crowded trees. However, different carriers will have varying levels of coverage across South Mountain.

Weather

Temperatures may change depending on varying levels of elevation, humidity, and wind. High-altitude spots are typically cooler than places that are nearer to sea level. Prepare for your South Mountain visit with our weather guide.

The elevation of South Mountain ranges between 500 to 1,000 feet above sea level, according to Lehigh University.

Both South Mountain and Blue Mountain are mountain ranges in Lehigh Valley. Blue Mountain is the northern boundary of Lehigh Valley, while South Mountain is more of a southern boundary. South Mountain is not geographically straight like Blue Mountain. Enjoy winter activities like skiing at Blue Mountain and warm-weather things to do like hiking and biking at South Mountain.

Hiking & Mountain Biking

Hiking and biking across South Mountain are escapes into the wilderness, where untouched natural beauty sets a peaceful backdrop for outdoor exploration. Discover a variety of trails for all hikers and mountain bikers, including:

• Bug Trail - Easy - 3.5 Miles - 544 Feet in Elevation - An hour-and-a-half route that’s dog-friendly and features an abundance of boulders for the geologist enthusiasts in your life.
• Klines Lane Trail - Easy - 1.4 Miles - 59 Feet in Elevation - This 30-minute trail consists of a gravel path that connects the Wildlands Conservancy South Mountain Preserve to Emmaus’ Homestead Park. It’s a family- and accessible-friendly trail for hikers who are using wheelchairs or strollers.
• South Mountain Gateway Trail - Easy - 1.4 Miles - 55 Feet in Elevation - 30-minute route with an out-and-back trail layout. It’s more known for running and hiking activities.
• Alpine Street Trail - Moderate - 1.7 Miles - 226 Feet in Elevation - This loop is popular for both hiking and biking, taking around 40 minutes to complete if you’re traveling by foot. Keep an eye out for some rocky terrain and a small stream.
• Bloodroot Trail - Hard - 1.6 Miles - 920 Feet in Elevation - Experienced mountain bikers will love pedaling through the remote upper north side of South Mountain with views of wildflowers, pristine water, and green foliage in the warmer months.

Birding & Wildlife Viewing

South Mountain is home to an array of migratory bird species, where you’ll find the Louisiana Waterthrush by streams; Pileated Woodpecker by the oval holes in trees; Singing Field Sparrows by young-forest places; and red Crossbills by conifer trees. Other South Mountain birds include the Hooded Warbler, Wood Thrush, Blackburian Warbler, Red-shouldered Hawk, and Black-crowned Night Heron. The streams are typically brimming with amphibians and insets. You may also see the deer and foxes along the hiking paths.

Fishing

Cast your rod at the South Mountain Reservoir, which is home to a variety of freshwater species, typically featuring panfish, Largemouth bass, Bluegill, and Pumpkinseed. A fishing license is required for both residents and non-residents who are 16 years of age or older.

Bauer Rock

Make your way to a 40-foot cluster of rocks that formed more than 40 million years ago. Bauer Rock is a registered Pennsylvania Heritage Geological Site and is considered a mass of gneiss of the Precambrian-aged Pochuk Formation. The height of the rocks make it the perfect spot to take in Saucon Valley sights. Take a quick stroll from the parking lot on the southern area of East Rock Road, which is situated across Mountain Top Lane. Venture around the left area of the fence and proceed onto the trail into the forest, continuing approximately 200 feet before reaching Bauer Rock.

Shelter House

Hike towards a part of Lehigh Valley history that was formerly regarded as a stopping point for travelers. Wander through the northern slope of South Mountain and you’ll find the Shelter House. Appearing as a two-story log cabin, it was built in 1734, it’s one of the oldest log buildings in Lehigh Valley and showcases classic 18th century colonial German architecture. Schedule an appointment to see the interiors of The Shelter House here.

1. Where is South Mountain located?

South Mountain is located along the south side of Lebanon Valley, extending to the Lehigh Valley area.

2. Are dogs allowed on South Mountain trails?

Yes, dogs are permitted on the trails of South Mountain in Lehigh Valleys, but they must be guided on a leash.

3. Where is the best viewing point in Lehigh Valley’s South Mountain?

Bauer Rock offers some of the best views of the Lehigh Valley region with its 40-foot natural platform.

4. How long of a hike is South Mountain?

The South Mountain Preserve is a forested area with almost 11 miles of hiking trails.

5. What is the elevation of South Mountain in Lehigh Valley, PA?

South Mountain has an elevation range between 500 to 1,000 feet above sea level.

6. What are the native plants of South Mountain?

South Mountain’s trees are a combination of maple, tulip, red oak, and beech. Skunk cabbage and spicebush are just some of the botanical finds across the trails!

7. What is the easiest trail at South Mountain?

Take the Klines Lane or South Mountain Gate Trails for a 1.4-mile easy hiking experience. Both trails are short out-and-back routes with less than a 60-foot elevation gain.

8. Is South Mountain family-friendly?

Yes, South Mountain can be family-friendly with easy hiking trails, biking paths, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Embark on shorter trails with a gradual and low elevation gain; the Klines Lane Trail is the perfect stroller- and wheelchair-friendly path

9. What is the highest peak in South Mountain?

East Big Flat Ridge is the highest peak of South Mountain, towering at 2,070 feet above sea level.

• Check the weather before visiting South Mountain. Climbing surfaces and trails may be slippery on days with precipitation.
• Pack hiking essentials like water, snacks, a flashlight, sunscreen, and a whistle.
• Bring a compass and a physical copy of the South Mountain trail map.
• Practice Leave No Trace guidelines in order to reduce your impact on South Mountain’s environment.
• Wear appropriate layers for the weather, which may include a hat and insulated thermals during the winter and lighter fabrics during the summer.
• Keep a safe distance from local wildlife while traveling along the trails.