Advanced hike: Lehigh Gap to Bake Oven Knob 16.5 miles, 2,600' elevation

** Please read description carefully as this is more of an advanced hike**

Part of the route is new to me, so looking to explore it before my summer shore season. Plan is to start at the Lehigh Gap Nature center and head over to Bake Oven Knob with a total of 16.5 miles and 2,600' of elevation. It is mostly out and back, but there are a few spots where we will take a parallel trail to mix things up. Particularly of interest on the way back is a FUN rock scramble that is about a mile long.

Expect a relatively brisk pace of around 3.2-3.5 mph. Little slower on climbs and scrambles. We will keep moving, but there will be a couple stops to take in the scenery, snap some pics and refuel at Bake Oven Knob which is the half way point. We will also regroup at the top of our major climb that occurs in the beginning of the hike.

NOTE: If you are having a bad day or bit off more then you can chew, most of this hike is on the AT which is clearly marked. So should be relatively easy to find your way back if you need to drop off at some point. This is one of those hikes I encourage you to come out of your comfort zone and push yourself given the ability to bail if absolutely needed. Not all hikes offer this given the design of the route...:)

GEAR REQUIRED: hiking footwear as there will be plenty of rocks, roots and slippery conditions. Food, water, sunscreen and electrolytes as needed.
PARKING AND MEETING LOCATION: Lehigh Gap Nature center located at 8844 Paint Mill Rd, Slatington, PA 18080. There is an overflow lot nearby for the D&L trail. See Meetup PIN for exact location. Prompt start, so plan accordingly.

GUEST POLICY: All attendees must be members of Outdoor Adventure Friends. This is for communication purposes to ensure that those in attendance understand exactly what they are signing up for. Meetup is free …..
PLEASE NOTE: I cannot respond to calls, texts, emails, messages on meetup, or comments on the event page once we start hiking. Plan accordingly.
NOTICE: Meetup organizers are not professionally trained. By attending an event you are agreeing that YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY AT ALL TIMES. No member of the group EXCEPT YOURSELF can be held responsible for any damages, accidents, or liabilities incurred while hiking with us.