Crisp air, crunchy leaves, and vibrant colors. There are so many ways to enjoy fall, but hitting the trails is one of our favorites. Whether you’re looking for a Sunday stroll or an intense hike, there’s plenty to explore in Berks county.
Nolde Forest State Park Trails
There are many options for hiking at Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center. While many hikes are moderate to difficult, they are short distances making them accessible to a wide variety of hikers.
Blue Marsh Lake Trail
Blue Marsh isn’t just for summer activities. The Blue Marsh Lake Trail surrounds the entire recreation area and is the perfect spot for autumn walks. You can access the trail from multiple parking areas, and connect to smaller scenic trails along the way for optimal views of the lake.
Pulpit & Pinnacle
Located along the Appalachian trail in northern Berks, the 9-mile Pinnacle loop will take you to the second highest point in the county. The forested hike features some rocky terrain and gorgeous overlooks. You can easily modify this hike by simply ascending to Pulpit, the first scenic overlook, and making your way back down from there.
Kaercher Creek Park
This trail features stunning waterfront views. Surrounded by a patch of woods and plenty of trees, it’s the perfect autumn backdrop. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of migrating birds.
Waterfront views at Kaercher Creek Park.
Jim Dietrich Park Trail
Jim Dietrich Park features a trail that runs along the Schuylkill River. It’s a flat, easy 1-mile loop. There’s also a nearby dog park, which makes it a perfect way to spend a fall afternoon with your furry friend.
Bartram Trail
Located conveniently near route 61 and interstate 78 in Hamburg, this flat, easy trail has something for everyone. It’s perfect for walking your dog, riding bikes with your family, or soaking in the trees on a long walk. If the time is right, you can also see and hear the Reading Blue Mountain & Northern Railroad making its way to Jim Thorpe.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary Trails
Hawk Mountain features a variety of trails and loops to customize your experience. If you’re looking for a leisure day, you can visit one of many easily accessible lookout points and spend the day raptor watching. If you’re looking for something more active, you can choose one of their longer loops with heavy elevation. Note: the sanctuary requires trail fees.
Views from a Hawk Mountain Sanctuary trail.
More Trails in Berks
Berks Nature owns and manages 1,300 acres of public land for wildlife habitat and recreation. Many of these properties feature perfect trail options for fall hikes, including:
- Reserva de la montaña Neversink
- Bosques de Bob en el Santuario Earl Poole
- Parque Angelica Creek
Check out Berks Nature Trails and Preserves for more fall trail inspiration.
Where are you hiking this fall? Tell us in the comments!