Slip on your sneakers, dust off your bike or cast out your fishing line. You are about to discover a trove of trails to walk, hike or bike along in your very own backyard. The sights, sounds and scents of nature are waiting to captivate you. Wonderful, glimmering waterways invite you to indulge your boating or fishing pleasures. Get ready to enjoy the amazing outdoors while you’re out and about in Berks County.
Pack your gear for a leisurely stroll or a more intense hike along the beautiful trails of Berks.
Walk It
Exercise your mind and body by taking in a history lesson. Learn about the iron plantation at the Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site or the Civil War on some of the trails.
Aim for numerous lookout points at places such as Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, The Pagoda and more. This allows your eyes to relax or “go long” — a natural de-stressor. Bring binoculars to spot and identify birds soaring about.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just out for a relaxing walk, you will enjoy the graceful green landscapes, the gentle flowing creeks and rivers and the serenity of nature. Many Berks trails are ADA accessible.
Bike It
If cycling is more your speed, hang onto those handlebars and get those wheels spinning. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a novice, you can pedal and glide over 60 miles of trail alongside the beautiful flow of the Schuylkill River. Give yourself a challenge by traveling the Neversink Mountain Loop where you will steadily ascend a small, rocky climb, which leads you to a gorgeous view. If you desire flatter, more even terrain, the Reading Public Museum is one of many trail areas with pristine and peaceful grounds to explore. On gravel, on the road or pedaling up the mountainside, folks of all cycling skill levels can find the perfect path to travel.
Cast It
Love to fish? Cast your line and get hooked on the sparkling waterways in Berks. Behold one of the best trout fisheries in southeastern PA at The Stilling Basin at Blue Marsh Lake. Another great lake to enjoy fishing, with its ADA-accessible fishing pier, is Hopewell Lake at French Creek State Park where you’ll likely spot northern pike, bass and many other species of fish.
For some journey time on the water, paddle down the Schuylkill River Water Trail. Grab your motorboats and canoes and take a trip you’ll never forget down many miles. The surrounding scenery will make your adventure memorable. Water skiers and rowers alike will find miles of gorgeous waters to tread.
So, whether you love walking and hiking, peddling your bicycle or enjoying time out on the water, Berks County has a trail for every activity.
For additional parks, activities and more info go to visitpaamericana.com/outdoors.
