The best city hikes and walks in Lehigh County

Lehigh County offers several urban hiking trails, with komoot featuring 7 distinct routes in this guide. Most of these, 6 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them accessible for a wide range of hikers.

Urban hikes in Lehigh County often feature relatively flat surfaces, especially on trails like the South Bethlehem Greenway or the Monocacy Way Trail. These trails are typically well-maintained and suitable for walking, running, and biking. Some routes, like the moderate Ruins of pottery building – Lehigh Overlook loop from Bethlehem, may include more varied terrain and elevation changes, offering a bit more of a challenge within an urban setting.

Yes, many urban trails in Lehigh County are family-friendly due to their easy difficulty and accessible paths. Trails like the Hiking loop from Emmaus or the South Bethlehem Greenway are great choices for families, offering pleasant walks without significant elevation gain. The Little Lehigh Parkway also features easy trail loops perfect for all fitness levels.

Many urban trails in Lehigh County are pet-friendly. The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor (D&L Trail), which passes through the Lehigh Valley, is known to be pet-friendly. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all trail users.

Urban hikes in Lehigh County offer a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. Along the D&L Trail, you can encounter historical landmarks like the George Taylor House and the National Canal Museum. Other notable features include the Stone Bridges of Lehigh Parkway, the scenic Jordan Creek Parkway, and the Haines Mill Park and Museum. The Karl Stirner Arts Trail also features contemporary sculptures along Bushkill Creek.

Yes, several urban hiking trails in Lehigh County are designed as loops. For example, the Ruins of pottery building – Lehigh Overlook loop from Bethlehem offers a moderate loop experience. Another option is the Ironton Rail Trail loop from Whitehall, which is an easy and accessible loop trail.

Lehigh County offers enjoyable urban hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming flora and mild temperatures, while autumn showcases stunning fall foliage. Summer is great for early morning or late afternoon hikes to avoid peak heat, and even winter can be beautiful for a crisp walk, especially on well-maintained, cleared paths.

Yes, some urban trails in Lehigh County offer access to water features. The D&L Trail provides views of the Lehigh River and canal. You can also find trails near Leaser Lake Park and Catasauqua Lake at Hanover Canal Park, offering pleasant lakeside walks. The Pool Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Wildlands Conservancy, features a boardwalk along the Little Lehigh Creek.

The komoot community rates urban hiking in Lehigh County highly, with an average score of 4.57 stars. Hikers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the blend of natural scenery with urban convenience, and the opportunities to discover local history and landmarks along the way.

Yes, many trails in Lehigh County are part of larger networks. The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor (D&L Trail) is a significant example, spanning 165 miles with 48 miles passing through the Lehigh Valley. This extensive trail connects various communities and natural areas, offering opportunities for longer urban and semi-urban excursions.

Parking availability varies by trail. Many urban parks and trailheads, such as those for the Cedar Beach Park or the Trexler Nature Preserve, offer designated parking areas. It's always advisable to check specific trail information or local park websites for detailed parking instructions before your visit.