85th Annual Sheeprock Trek and Thanksgiving Service

Hike starts off in the dark at 5:45 AM and climbs a mountain trail that is at times rocky and includes a small stream crossing. Bring a good flashlight or lantern and dress for the weather. Free and open to the General Public - No registration required! Thanksgiving 2013 marks the 85th occurrence of the Sheeprock Trek, an annual observance first described in a 1929 Allentown Morning Call article as "a novel undertaking." William Shoemaker, a local civic leader, state legislator, and founder of the the first Macungie Boy Scout Troop, organized the Trek in 1929 as an activity sponsored by the Young People's Council of Solomon's Reformed Church. Sheeprock was chosen for this annual pilgrimage because from that point on the mountain "there is presented a grand panoramic view of two thirds of Lehigh County and parts of Berks and Northampton counties." The name Sheeprock, or Sheep Stable, was derived from local folklore when a farmer, caught in an unexpected storm, led his sheep to shelter in a cave below the rocky pinnacle. The cave thus served as a stable, or a shelter, from the cold north wind. Historian O.P. Knauss chronicled the Trek during the early years, writing: "Few scenes anywhere are as glorious and inspiring, and at early sunrise the view is particularly beautiful." That fact is as true today as it was in 1929, and is the main reason that this unique Thanksgiving tradition has survived over the past 84 years On Thanksgiving morning, let us once again give thanks for the opportunity and freedom to again enjoy what O.P. Knauss first described as "a scene which never fails to incite wonder and delight." Refreshments of Hot Chocolate and Doughnuts will be served after the service at the Macungie Fire Company. In the event of inclement weather conditions, the sunrise service will be held in the garages of the Macungie Volunteer Fire Dept. starting at 5:45 AM. For more information, contact the Macungie Volunteer Fire Department starting at 5:45 AM. For more information, contact the Macungie Historical Society at 610-965-0372.

Details
Hike / bike / on-water distance: 2 miles
Hike rating: A
Meeting place: Macungie Fire Company, 31 South Walnut Street, Macungie, PA at 5:30 AM. Contact Marty Larson, Asst. Scoutmaster, Troop 71, 610-967-1389