The best walks and hikes around Allentown
4.5
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Hiking around Allentown, Pennsylvania, offers diverse terrain ranging from flat, easy paths along waterways to moderate trails with elevation changes. The region is characterized by prominent features like the Little Lehigh Creek and Lehigh River, which are often bordered by trails. Woodlands, open meadows, and limestone geology contribute to varied landscapes, providing opportunities for scenic views across the Lehigh Valley.
Best hiking trails around Allentown
- The most popular hiking route is Little Lehigh Parkway Trail loop — Lehigh Parkway, a 6.2 miles (10.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 34 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows the Little Lehigh Creek, known for its picturesque wooden bridges and wildlife sightings.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Wilderness, Uplands, & Log Trail loop — Wildlands Conservancy South Mountain Preserve, a moderate 6.5 miles (10.5 km) path. This trail offers a challenging workout with significant elevation gain and views of babbling brooks and the Lehigh Valley.
- Local hikers also love the Trexler Memorial Park loop — Trexler Park, a 2.5 miles (4.1 km) trail leading through parkland, often completed in about 1 hour 4 minutes.
- Hiking around Allentown is defined by diverse terrain, prominent waterways like the Little Lehigh Creek, and extensive woodlands, offering scenic beauty throughout the seasons. The network provides options for various ability levels, from easy park walks to moderate climbs.
- The routes in Allentown are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore Allentown's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
5.0
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6
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4.15km
01:04
20m
10m
The Sherwood Forest, Bones, and North Side Path Trail Loop offers a delightful, low-key escape into nature, perfect for when you need a quick refresh. You'll wander through pleasant wooded areas, possibly encountering historic stone walls and varied forest terrain, characteristic of trails in the Sherwood Forest region. This easy hiking route is a gentle 2.6 miles (4.1 km) with just 59 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for almost anyone and completable in about 1 hour and 3 minutes.
Planning your visit to the Sherwood Forest, Bones, and North Side Path Trail Loop is straightforward; it's a great option for a spontaneous outing. While specific parking information isn't readily available, arriving earlier in the day is always a good strategy, especially on weekends. The trail is enjoyable in most seasons, but spring and fall provide particularly comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery. Remember to bring water, even for this shorter distance, and wear sturdy shoes as some sections might be damp or rocky.
This loop is an excellent choice for beginner hikers, families, or anyone looking for a peaceful walk without a strenuous climb. The name 'Sherwood Forest' often evokes images of ancient woodlands, and while specific details for this combined loop are scarce, you can expect a tranquil, natural setting. It's a wonderful way to experience the outdoors without committing to a long or challenging expedition.
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711m
00:11
0m
0m
The North Side Path in Allentown, Pennsylvania, offers an incredibly gentle and brief outdoor escape. This easy hiking route is perfect for those seeking a quick stretch of the legs, covering just 0.4 miles (0.7 km) with a minimal 3 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain. It's a straightforward path designed for accessibility, making it a great option for a casual stroll or a family outing with young children.
Planning your visit to the North Side Path is simple; its short 10-minute duration means you can enjoy it any time of day. There are no specific access restrictions or seasonal closures to worry about. For trailhead access and parking, you'll want to check local Allentown resources, as it's situated within the city.
This particular North Side Path stands out as a convenient, no-fuss option for a moment of fresh air in Lehigh County. While many trails share this name across the US, this Allentown version is notable for its extreme ease and accessibility, providing a quick outdoor break without requiring any significant time commitment or preparation.
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4.0
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15
hikers
9.96km
02:34
50m
50m
The Little Lehigh Parkway Trail loop offers a moderate hiking experience, stretching 6.2 miles (10.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 151 feet (46 metres). You can expect to complete this scenic route in about 2 hours and 33 minutes. As you hike, the path winds alongside the Little Lehigh Creek, providing a peaceful escape within an urban setting. Tall trees line the route, creating a pleasant, shaded atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the historic Bogert Covered Bridge, a key landmark along the way.
This well-maintained trail is a popular choice for hikers and is accessible throughout the year. You will find it easy to start your adventure, as parking is generally available near the trailhead. The route also provides convenient amenities like restrooms and water fountains at various points along your journey. Consider visiting during off-peak hours if you prefer a quieter experience.
This route is notable for its blend of natural beauty and historical elements, making it a unique urban oasis. Beyond the picturesque creek, you will encounter an old train trestle and stone retaining walls built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The trail is also known for its wildlife, so you might spot deer as you explore. It's a great option for a refreshing outdoor activity close to Allentown.
13
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4.08km
01:05
40m
40m
The Upper Trexler Loop offers a delightful and easy hiking experience, guiding you through a pleasant mix of open meadows and wooded sections. You'll walk on primarily flat, paved multi-use pathways, enjoying views of established trees, grassy areas, and a central pond fed by Little Cedar Creek. It's a great option for a relaxed outing where the scenery gently unfolds around you, perhaps even revealing glimpses of an old orchard.
This easy 2.5-mile (4.1 km) hike, with a minimal 118 feet (36 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete. It's a popular spot for hikers, runners, and dog walkers, indicating its broad appeal. Parking is free within Trexler Memorial Park, and there are no entrance fees, making it a convenient and budget-friendly choice for a quick outdoor escape.
Situated within the sprawling Trexler Memorial Park, this trail is known for its lush greenery and scenic spots, making it a community favorite. The fact that dogs are welcome on leash adds to its family-friendly appeal. It's an ideal route for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a short, refreshing walk without significant challenge.
6
hikers
10.5km
03:01
260m
260m
Hike the moderate 6.5-mile Wilderness, Uplands, & Log Trail loop through forests, past boulder formations, and to Lehigh Valley overlooks.
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Tips from the Community
The Uplands Trail is a short, .7-mile, relatively easy path; however, it is rocky and uneven in some areas. The trail provides access to the Mountain Top and Log trails and offers nice elevation changes along the way. While on this route, you'll see plenty of wildlife, including deer, fox and several bird species, as you immerse yourself in the beautiful forest with trees over 100 years old.
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Trexler Memorial Park is delightful, with Little Cedar Creek flowing through the grounds, creating a lovely central pond. It features 2.5 miles of hiking trails and is a popular location for hikers, runners, and dog walkers. The main loop trail is about a mile long, or you can combine it with other well-marked trails for an extended hike. It's the perfect location to enjoy a shorter hike and immerse yourself in nature.
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The North Side Path is a beautiful route on mostly gravel that runs along the park's north side, and is part of the loop that continues on the opposite side of Little Lehigh Creek. It's a quiet stretch of trail where you can immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings and enjoy the lovely views of the water.
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This historic bridge, constructed in 1841, is the oldest in the county and stretches 145 feet across the creek. It is a fantastic old bridge, and it is worth a detour to take a walk inside to admire the interior beams and capture some photos. If you want to shorten your hike, you can cross here and head back to the North Side Path.
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Lehigh Parkway is a huge public park in Allentown. It is technically a loop trail that travels on both sides of Little Lehigh Creek, and it is split up into a “North Side Path” and a “South Side Path.” Both sides of the trail are pretty similar, being mostly crushed gravel with a handful of paved parts.
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Bogert's Covered Bridge is a 145-foot-long bridge constructed in 1841. It is the oldest bridge in the county. It is still open to traffic, so it is a nice detour off of Oxford Drive.
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The Wildlands Conservancy South Mountain Preserve spans 350 acres of woodland, featuring hard-packed dirt trails with some rocky sections throughout. This area is home to a wide variety of birds, so keep a lookout for them as you explore the trails.
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Lehigh Parkway is a huge public park in Allentown. It is technically a loop trail that travels on both sides of Little Lehigh Creek, and it is split up into a "North Side Path" and a "South Side Path." Both sides of the trail are pretty similar being mostly crushed gravel with a handful of paved parts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Allentown?
Allentown and its surrounding areas offer a diverse selection of nearly 20 hiking routes. These range from easy strolls through parks to more challenging moderate trails with elevation changes.
What types of terrain can I expect on Allentown's hiking trails?
The region features a variety of terrains, from flat, easy paths along waterways like the Little Lehigh Creek to moderate trails with noticeable elevation changes and some rocky sections. You'll find lush woodlands, open meadows, and areas influenced by limestone geology.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Allentown?
Yes, many trails are suitable for families. For an easy and pleasant walk, consider the Trexler Memorial Park loop, which is 2.5 miles long and takes about an hour. The Little Lehigh Parkway Trail loop also offers a scenic, mostly flat experience along the creek, perfect for a longer family outing.
Which trails are dog-friendly in Allentown?
Most trails in Allentown's parks and preserves are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash. The Little Lehigh Parkway Trail loop and the trails within Trexler Nature Preserve are popular choices for hikers with dogs, offering plenty of space and natural surroundings.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Allentown?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular circular routes include the Little Lehigh Parkway Trail loop, the Trexler Memorial Park loop, and the Wilderness, Uplands, & Log Trail loop at South Mountain Preserve.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the hiking trails?
Allentown's trails often lead to or pass by notable features. Along the Little Lehigh Parkway, you can discover the historic Stone Bridges of Lehigh Parkway and Bogert Covered Bridge. The expansive Trexler Nature Preserve offers opportunities to see elk and bison, along with Schlicher's Covered Bridge. For a historical perspective, the nearby Bethlehem Steel Plant is a significant landmark.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near Allentown?
While Allentown itself doesn't feature prominent waterfalls directly on its main hiking trails, the broader Lehigh Valley region, particularly the Lehigh Gorge Trail within Lehigh Gorge State Park, is known for its stunning views of waterfalls and rock cliffs along the Lehigh River.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Allentown?
The hiking experience in Allentown is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the serene 'creek hike atmosphere' along the Little Lehigh Parkway, and the scenic beauty of the woodlands and meadows throughout the seasons.
Are there any challenging hikes in Allentown?
For a more challenging experience, the Wilderness, Uplands, & Log Trail loop at Wildlands Conservancy South Mountain Preserve is a moderate 6.5-mile path with significant elevation gain, offering a good workout and rewarding views of the Lehigh Valley.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Allentown?
Most major parks and preserves in Allentown, such as Lehigh Parkway, Trexler Memorial Park, and Wildlands Conservancy South Mountain Preserve, offer designated parking areas for trail access. It's advisable to check specific park websites or trail descriptions for detailed parking information.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Allentown?
Allentown offers scenic beauty throughout the seasons. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Summer is ideal for shaded woodland trails, and even winter hiking can be enjoyable on clear days, offering a different perspective of the landscape.
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