From scenic walks and strolls to hikes and running trails, Lehigh Valley offers miles of off-the-beaten-path adventures crossing railroads, rivers, and canals.
Be whisked away from the routines of everyday life, and step outside and discover, at your own pace, the natural landmarks that have attracted visitors to this region time and again.
For a unique bit of scenery along the way, walk or jog along Easton's Karl Stirner Arts Trail. Spanning 2.4 miles, this trail features artwork by the late Karl Stirner, famed for his contemporary sculptures. Much of this pathway winds along Bushkill Creek, with a small part heading into the city's Centre Square and making its way to Riverside Park. Pups are welcome along the trail, and you'll even find a dog park for them to roam free. For even more picturesque walks, check out some of the several rails-to-trails paths in the Valley. There's the Asher F. Boyer Trail between Northampton and Slatington, the Towpath Bike Trail in Palmer Township, the Ironton Rail Trail which runs through Whitehall, Coplay, and North Whitehall, and the Nor-bath Trail between Bath and Northampton.
To step up the distance a bit, check out any portion of the D&L Trail, a multi-use trail spanning 165 miles, which runs on the canal paths along the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers as its name implies. Most of the trails are flat and peaceful. Make your adventure a learning experience by following Historic Bethlehem Museum & Sites' Heritage Trail and learn all about the history of over 80 different sites.
There are plenty of challenging courses for the more serious hikers out there. South Mountain Gateway Trail Trail in Emmaus has offshoots from the main path where you can find all sorts of terrain and natural attractions. Also in Emmaus is the new Bloodroot Trail, ideal for experienced mountain bikers and hikers. And don't forget Hawk Mountain in Kempton. They have challenging rocky trails that reward you with spectacular views as well as a new handicapped accessible trail suitable for wheelchairs or walkers as well as strollers. Plenty of benches line the gently sloped trail, too, for those who need to take a break.
Find a trail that's suitable to you from The Link, an interconnected trail network highlighting a variety of trails across Lehigh Valley. You'll find trails appropriate for all levels of activity, complete with stunning views and scenery. Just make sure, whichever trail you choose, you bring water and wear comfortable clothing and appropriate shoes or boots. And don't forget to wear a hat and sunscreen during the warmer months.
