Senior Hiking Clubs In Berks County, Pennsylvania

Berks County, Pennsylvania has at least 30 hiking trails in the Blue Mountains and along the Appalachian Trail, ranging from easy to difficult. As with all hikers, seniors need to know their capabilities and limitations when selecting a group suited for them. Some seniors prefer more challenging hikes, but Berks County trails offer something for everyone.

Community Hiking Club

The Berks Community Hiking Club welcomes all ages, including seniors. Many seniors enjoy the easy 5-mile trek through historic Boyertown, which includes a visit to the Boyertown Museum. Another popular hiking spot with seniors is the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania arboretum at the University of Pennsylvania, where walkers will enjoy 92 acres of plants from around the world. Another gentle hike for seniors is the 8 1/2-mile road trip through historic Oley and Exeter Townships. The club has several hikes suited for seniors that are repeated throughout the year. The Berks Community Hiking Club charges a $5 annual membership fee and publishes a quarterly newsletter.

Blue Mountain Eagle

The Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club (BMECC) has a long association with the Appalachian Trail. Like the Berks Community Hiking Club, the BMECC offers hikes through the University of Pennsylvania arboretum and, during the fall, the club takes several easy hikes through Shenandoah National Park and occasionally visits Crow's Nest Preserve, where seniors can hike in remote areas or on well-worn, but clearly marked trails. In the spring, the BMECC hikes Ricketts Glen State Park along easy, relatively level paths named the Beach Trail, the Evergreen Trail and the Bear Walk Trail. Membership in the Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club is $12 for individuals, $15 for families and $3 for juniors under age 17. A lifetime membership is available for $300.

Nolde Forest

Another popular hiking spot with all age groups is the Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center. This 665-acre preserve sports a number of excellent hiking trails and opportunities to view flora and fauna. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania bought the property in the 1970s, making the Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center the first operated by the Bureau of State Parks.

French Creek Park

French Creek State Park bestrides the Schuylkill Highlands, its 7,730 acres forming the largest contiguous forest between New York City and Washington, D.C. French Creek State Park features wetlands, lakes and fields where people can hike, fish, camp and bicycle. It is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal life and has been designated an Important Bird Area and an Important Mammal Area by the National Audubon Society.

Appalachian Trail

Completed in 1937, the Appalachian Trail covers almost 2,180 miles and is the longest marked walking trail in the country. It crosses eight national forests, touches 14 states and is maintained by 30 clubs and organizations that annually commit more than 200,000 man hours to its care.