Variable Lehigh Gap Hike - West Side 6 - 8 miles & 100-1200ft Elevation

We'll have fun and get a good workout at the Lehigh Gap no matter what the weather!

Please read the full description so you know what you're signing up for. There are no unimportant words in the description!

You'll notice the word 'Variable' in the Title of this Hike. ????
While the mileage is pretty much set at 6 to 8 miles, the unique concept of this hike that makes it variable, is that the elevation will vary depending on the weather and trail conditions.

The beauty of the west side of the Lehigh Gap is that there's a bunch of trail options.

[The whole group does either option 1 or option 2]
(Option 1)
If the Trail conditions are clear of snow and ice, we will get our 6-8 miles climbing the mountain on the Appalacian and several other trails.
(Option 2)
If the Trail conditions are snowy or icy, we will get our 6-8 miles on one or both of the level railroad grades. {If the trail is snow covered and you have cross-country skis, or want to rent them, you can do so with this trail}
Either way this will be a fantastic hike with great scenery.

I will check out the trail a day or two before our hike and will post in the comments, the trail conditions and our expected route option.

Meet 9:45 or earlier and be ready to Hike by 10:00. Note: there are restrooms at the Visitor's Center where we are parking.

While you don't need any special gear, I recommend always having your Microspikes in your bag for winter hiking. I've seen many instances of a rain early in the week, slowly percolate from the rock cliffs then freeze on the trail in the cold overnight. So, yes, you can have ice if it hasn't rained or snowed in a week or if it were warm a day or two before.

Disclaimer: The flat trail option does have 2 small hills, so not perfectly flat; hence the 100ft elevation associated with option 2.

If you don't have microspikes, we'll work together by pairing up someone with microspikes to someone without to help each other get over any slippery areas, if we encounter.

• Note: With (option 1) a possible steep climb on rocky terrain, 6-8 miles and 1200ft of elevation, or (option 2) Flat, but possibly slippery snow covered trails and possible icy sections and 6-8 miles, this is NOT A BEGINNER HIKE.
• The pace is moderate (we'll be moving between 2.5 & 3 mph) and there will be some breaks, but the terrain is advanced with either option.

We'll have a few short pauses and stop for a snack/lunch break and to take in some of the beautiful scenery.
If we're ahead of schedule I'll throw in a surprise or two.

Hiking boots or trail runners are best. A hiking stick or two or a solid tree branch is recommended as well as Microspikes if you have them. The good ones are only about $90 and well worth the investment.

Bring at least two bottles of water, a snack/lunch and electrolyte/energy chews, etc. as you deem necessary as we'll be out for around four hours and will cover 6-8 miles with as much as 1200ft of elevation gain.

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.