Philly Trail Wanderers

Mount Penn's quieter cousin occupies a scenic bend in the Schuylkill River offering views of the valley and city of Reading. Ruined turn of the century hotels, a mountain top trolley line and a strange, solitary gazebo dubbed "The Witch's Hat" are all found along this 5.5 mile loop hike in Berks County.

This is a moderately difficult 5.5 mile loop on forest roads and footpaths with around 800 feet of elevation gain in two segments. These climbs are brief but steep and may be strenuous for some. Please bring water and some extra calories. We will stop to break at the Witch's Hat. The trail is rocky in places so please have appropriate footwear.

We will be meeting at the Neversink Preserve trailhead parking off Klapperthal Rd. and starting out at 9am. Please come on time as I will not be able to check my phone for late comers once we start.

Link to AllTrails map below. Note our route will be slightly different than the AllTrails route.

https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/pennsylvania/neversink-loop-trail

Hike will cancel from severe weather.

Ringing Rocks Park is surrounded by countless trees, providing plenty of shade for those warmer days. The park is a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you are there to enjoy some quiet time, go for a hike, or interact with the rocks, this gem in Bucks County offers something for everyone. Unique rock formations, environmental education opportunities, and beautiful picnic spots make it an ideal family destination.

The boulders are composed of a specific type of granite that produces a sound similar to a bell when tapped. The geology of the area adds to the allure. The experience is almost surreal, as guests can partake in making music simply by interacting with nature.

This will be about a 6 Mile scenic double loop starting at the Route 32 Trail Head. The first loop will take us down to the Delaware River through the Hidden Woods,
staying alert for diurnal animals then onto the D&L trail then upward to Ringing rocks Boulder Field and High Falls.
No significant elevation but, there is a 500 foot climb over one mile to the boulder field.
Will stop at the Boulder field and falls for exploration.
Bring along a hammer to tap out some musical tunes.

Note: The Hidden Woods Trail is not completely maintained, short section of vegetation knee to waist high in spots.
Long pants suggested- can change to shorts as we pass parking lot.

Sturdy shoes will be helpful on the irregular rocks along the uneven trail.
Insect repellent recommended.
Have water to stay hydrated and a packed snack to enjoy while enjoying the scenery.
Be alert to the weather conditions.

Portajohn available at Boulder Field.
Please no Pets.
Use Pin on Event page for Directions.
Will Cancel for unpleasant weather.
Facilities available.

Note that your Host is not a tour guide, you are responsible for your own safety and well being.
By signing up for this hike, you know that hiking poses risks and you will not hold me or Meetup liable for injury, damages, or death.

Info:
https://www.buckscounty.gov/DocumentCenter/View/13159/Ringing-Rocks-Map?bidId=

The Appalachian, Horseshoe and Mason-Dixon Trails make up a long-distance hiking trifecta surround southeastern PA. If you hiked all three you'd make a near loop of around 380 miles. The west side of that loop comprises the Mason-Dixon Trail, a 190 mile hiking path which follows the west bank of the Susquehanna River for much of its route. Here it takes in several sweeping views of PA's largest river cutting across the Piedmont, and dips into cool hollows cut into the river bluffs. Along the way are traces of the river's native, colonial and industrial past including long forgotten farmsteads, furnaces and canals. The Susquehanna has been for millennia a transportation thoroughfare, carrying everything from native dugout canoes to canal barges fueling a nascent Industrial Revolution. Today much of the river corridor serves as an important greenway, including the 1044 acres of the Susquehanna Riverlands State Park protecting the river's waters as they travel to the Chesapeake Bay.

Our hike will take in a section of the Mason Dixon Trail between Schull's Rock and Dogan Run. We will make a loop of around 10 miles, climbing aroud 1000 feet total over the course of the hike. At least one climb will be sustained and more strenuous. This is a moderate hike, but will depend on fitness levels. Make sure you are comfortable with the length and elevation gain. The trail will be rough in places so proper footwear are required. Make sure to bring water and some extra calories.

Meet up at the Susquehanna Riverlands SP Parking off River Farm Rd. There are two lots off River Farm Rd. We are starting from the second, western lot. Coordinates: (40°02'58.7"N 76°38'11.0"W). We set off at 9AM. Make sure you are on time. Once we start hiking I will not be checking my phone for anyone arriving late.

Event will cancel for severe weather.