UPDATE: The State Game Lands parking lot is somewhat cleared but mostly solid ice. The trail is mostly solid ice, as well. Traction devices will be a must tomorrow so definitely bring those along. It’s not supposed to get above freezing anytime soon, so I do not expect conditions to improve.

PLEASE WEAR BLAZE ORANGE AS WE WILL BE ON STATE GAME LANDS AND SHARING THAT SPACE WITH HUNTERS.

We will meet at the PA State Game Lands parking lot on Route 309 for a 4 mile hike to the Allentown Shelter. At the shelter we will enjoy snacks and friendship, so feel free to bring goodies to share around the shelter's picnic table. After a suitable time for socializing, we will hike 4 miles back to our cars. Since we will be spending time at the shelter, bring an extra layer of clothing to stay warm. No dogs or alcoholic beverages. Steady rain or snow on the morning of the hike cancels this event.

UPDATE: The parking lot on Fort Franklin Road is solid ice. Approaching the parking lot from the south/Leaser Lake seems to be the better approach. That road is clear and dry. The road on the north side of the mountain is a gravel road, and while it has been cindered, it is quite icy. The trail is mostly solid ice, as well. Traction devices will be a must tomorrow so definitely bring those along. It’s not supposed to get above freezing anytime soon, so I do not expect conditions to improve.

This will be the 50th year that the club will visit our shelter on New Year's Eve. We will meet at Fort Franklin Rd. and walk 2 miles on the Appalachian Trail to the Allentown Shelter where we will eat lunch. Wear blaze orange since we will be walking on State Game Lands. At the shelter we will enjoy snacks and friendship, so feel free to bring goodies to share around the shelter's picnic table. After a suitable time for socializing, we will hike 2 miles back to our cars. Bring lunch, water and an extra layer of clothing to stay warm at the shelter. No dogs or alcoholic beverages. Steady rain or snow on morning of hike cancels this event.

Nolde Forest encompasses more than 665 acres of deciduous woodlands and coniferous plantations. A network of trails makes the center’s streams, ponds, and diverse habitats accessible to all.

We will hike most of the trails that wander throughout the park under tall trees and near creeks. Some trails are footpaths and others are remnants of gravel roads used by original owners of the mansion. We will stop at the Mansion to check out its unique architecture.

Sturdy hiking boots are recommended. If there is snow on the ground, microspikes or other traction devices will be mandatory. Bring at least 2L of water and lunch / snacks. Heavy rain or snow cancels.

Trail map can be found here:

Meet at the Illick's Mill parking lot at 100 Illick's Mill Rd. in Bethlehem where we will begin our 2 mile walk on the Monocacy Trail to the Central Moravian Church (73 W. Church St.) for a Bach at Noon concert. The concert is free, but voluntary donations are appreciated. After the concert, we will follow the same route to walk back to our cars. Bring snacks to be able to eat on the move as the weather conditions may not allow a stop for lunch. The Monocacy Trail is flat and has a good walking surface (paved, gravel, grass). Steady rain or snow or icy conditions on the morning of the event will cancel the hike portion of this event, but participants can meet in the balcony of the church for the concert.

This is a relatively flat loop trail around Leaser Lake in Kempton. There are some rocky sections and a creek crossing or two, but most of this hike is on gentle terrain. After one loop, those who want a longer hike can repeat the loop in the reverse direction with me, and we may add a hill climb up the road behind the lake to add a little extra distance/elevation. Bring hydration and a snack and dress in layers.

PLEASE WEAR BLAZE ORANGE as a section of this trail borders state game lands and it is still deer season.

Rain or steady morning snow cancels hike.

The location is close to the much-loved Wanamakers General Store, which makes a great post-hike lunch stop for anyone interested.

Contact: Heidi Forgione 703-402-1057

Description: The Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club’s Lundgren Cabin has been reserved for a Saturday–Sunday Cold-Weather Backpacking Shakedown Weekend, designed especially for backpackers who want hands-on experience and confidence building, without committing to a full winter backcountry trip.

Arrival: Saturday, January 31 by 9:00 AM

Activities: Camp setup, instruction sessions, short hikes, and skills practice

Overnight: Camping in the nearby campsite area (cabin available for emergencies)

Departure: Sunday morning

SAFETY FIRST
Brad Frable (WFA, CPR, and cold-weather certified) will be on site for the entire weekend. He will help with instruction, camp setup, and ensure the cabin remains warm and available in case of an emergency.