Allentown Hiking Club Meetup Group

This is a loop hike, starting at the Hamburg Reservoir parking lot, first climbing to Pulpit Rock and then onward to the Pinnacle for spectacular views of the Lehigh Valley from both locations. This is not a beginner's hike due to the 1000' ascent and very rocky terrain. If there is snow on the ground, microspikes or other traction devices will be mandatory. Bring a least 2L of water and lunch / snacks. Steady rain or snow cancels. Optional food stop afterwards.

This historical 4 hike to the Eckville Appalachian Trail Shelter begins at Pine Swamp Road and follows a time-honored blue-blazed route steeped in Appalachian Trail history. The climb winds steadily through mature forest and rocky outcrops before connecting with the Appalachian Trail itself, where generations of hikers have passed through this corridor of Pennsylvania’s Blue Mountain.

The destination, the Eckville Appalachian Trail Shelter, is one of the oldest shelters on the AT and uniquely includes a caretaker’s residence—making it a living link to the early stewardship of the Trail.

This hike offers not only a rewarding ascent and scenic ridge walking, but also a meaningful opportunity to experience a landmark that reflects the enduring spirit, community, and volunteer legacy of the Appalachian Trail.

Please bring snacks, fluids and an interest in learning about the history of the Appalachian Trail and the Eckville area and Shelter in Berks County.

Meeting place: Eckville trail parking at 409 Pine Swamp Rd, Kempton, PA 19529

This will be a 6 to 8 mile loop hike incorporating several trails at the Lehigh gap nature center. At least half of the hike is on the relatively flat LNE trail, but we will encounter some elevation change and rockiet terrain on a few other trails that we will explore.

Dress and layers with appropriate footwear and bring proper hydration and a snack. It is possible we may encounter ice/snow on some of the trails depending on weather conditions in the days prior. I will post an update on weather and potential trail conditions here a day or two before the event.

Rain or significant snow in the morning of event will cancel.