Person facing the scenery from the top of hawk mountain. The view is of trees beginning to change color @lovelywrens

Hiking

Hike to one of the highest points in Berks County or take in the area's wildlife and vistas on a gravel pathway. Our hiking trails offer something for everyone curious to see what adventure awaits in Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. 

Go on an Appalachian Adventure

For a fun challenge – and some of the best views in Berks County – hike to two of the area’s majestic outcroppings. The Pinnacle, one of the highest points in Berks County, and nearby Pulpit Rock offer stunning views and a hike along parts of the Appalachian Trail

The Pulpit Rock and Pinnacle Loop is moderately challenging and over eight miles long. The most challenging section of the trail is the first two miles that lead toward Pulpit Rock. Soak in the views before hiking to the Pinnacle, where picturesque views of mountain ridges and Lehigh Valley await. 

Enjoy a Hiking Weekend

Hike all day, sleep under the stars at French Creek State Park, and explore a new trail in the morning. You can spend all weekend hiking if you’d like. The park features over 35 miles of marked trails that vary in length and difficulty.  

One of the easier trails is the 1.5-mile Hopewell Big Woods Trail, a gravel pathway accessible to everyone. For a steep and rocky climb, try the six-mile Boone Trail, perfect for seasoned hikers. 

If you’d like to mix it up, go boating or horseback riding between hiking trips. After a day on the trails, rest up at your tent, yurt, or cabin before the next day’s activities.

Day Hikes

Day hikers have plenty of options when it comes to trails.

Blue Marsh Lake has 36 miles of multi-use trails for hiking and other activities like horseback riding and biking. It's more than a hiking destination, although that's a major draw. There are 5,000 acres of land, a lake for boating, and picnic areas. You can hop on the Schuylkill River Trail from the Union Canal Connector that intersects with the Blue Marsh. 

The Schuylkill River Trail is multi-use and open to walkers, runners, and cyclists. The recreational path traverses southeastern Pennsylvania, including Reading.

There are over 12 miles of trails at Antietam Lake Park, a 643-acre outdoor attraction that revolves around a fruit farm. Hike along streams and ponds at The Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center, which has a network of trails totalling 10 miles. 

Find over nine miles of trails at the Gring’s Mill Recreation Area. Besides hiking, you can enjoy fishing, birding, and cross-country skiing.

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary has over eight miles of trails for every skill level and ability. The 2,500-acre park is a sanctuary for migratory raptors, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching. 

Other top hiking destinations include the Muhlenberg Rail Trail. It has almost two miles of trails for hiking and biking on a former rail line.

We’ll see you on the trail!