4.0
(8)
119
hikers
20
hikes
Hiking around South Temple offers diverse trail systems that traverse wooded areas and floodplains, providing varied landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. The region features natural-surface paths and paved routes, often following waterways like Friar's Creek. This area is characterized by its natural beauty and opportunities for observing local flora.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
9
hikers
17.1km
04:24
80m
80m
Hike the moderate 10.6-mile Union Canal Trail through wooded areas and along Tulpehocken Creek, featuring historical canal remnants and Wert
6
hikers
5.65km
01:27
20m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the Muhlenberg Rail Trail, a paved path stretching 3.5 miles (5.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 66 feet (20 metres). You…

Sign up for free
1
hikers
9.51km
02:47
270m
270m
Hike the moderate 5.9-mile Ferndale Trail in Mount Penn Preserve, gaining 872 feet, and discover the iconic Reading Pagoda.
4.22km
01:10
70m
70m
Embark on the Tower Trail and Ferndale Trail Loop for an easy hike through the natural surroundings of Mount Penn Preserve. This route offers a pleasant journey, leading you to…
4.33km
01:15
110m
110m
Embark on the Antietam Section Gravel Walking Path for an easy hike through Antietam Lake Park. This route offers a pleasant journey through varied natural settings, combining gravel surfaces with…
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Mount Penn Preserve, situated on the outskirts of Reading, spans 50 acres and provides extensive mixed use trails throughout the park. Additionally, visitors can find picnic spots and restroom facilities for added convenience.
0
0
Mount Penn boasts an elevation of 1,120 feet (340 m) and offers gorgeous views of the charming city of Reading and its surrounding areas. It is often considered as the southernmost point of the Reading Prong mountain range, and is a popular destination for hiking and cyclists, with several trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and historic landmarks.
0
0
Mount Penn boasts an elevation of 1,120 feet (0.34 km) and offers gorgeous views of the charming city of Reading and its surrounding areas. It is often considered the southernmost point of the Reading Prong mountain range and is a popular destination for hiking and cyclists, with several trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and historic landmarks.
0
0
The Reading Pagoda is a 7-story building that was constructed in 1908 as a luxury hotel. In 1911, it was donated to Reading and is still owned by the city. The pagoda is now open for public visits, where you can climb the 87 steps to the top floor for a great view.
0
0
The Muhlenberg Rail Trail is a fully paved multiuse trail that was built on the spot of the old East Penn Branch of the Reading Railroad. It is mostly flat and is a very popular path for walkers, runners and cyclists.
0
0
Mount Penn Preserve is a 50 acre park on the edge of the city of Reading. It offers miles of hiking and trail running paths through the park. There are also picnic areas and restrooms.
0
0
The Union Canal Trail runs along the Tulpehocken Creek from Reading to Leesport. The trail is made of crushed limestone, so it is a great path for walking, running, and cycling.
0
0
The Reading Pagoda is a 7-story building that was constructed in 1908 as a luxury hotel. In 1911, it was donated to Reading and is still owned by the city. The pagoda is now open for public visits, where you can climb the 87 steps to the top floor for a great view. For more information, you can visit: readingpagoda.com
0
0
There are over 20 hiking routes available around South Temple, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and a few more challenging options.
Yes, South Temple offers several easy hiking trails perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Muhlenberg Rail Trail is an easy 3.5-mile path, providing a shorter, accessible option for a leisurely walk. Many trails in the area are well-maintained with amenities like benches and shade, making them family-friendly.
While many trails are easy to moderate, you can find longer, more demanding routes. The Union Canal Trail, at 10.6 miles, is a moderate route that offers a longer journey through the local landscape, requiring more time and endurance. The Ferndale Trail also presents varied terrain over its 5.9 miles.
Yes, there are circular options available. For instance, the Tower Trail and Ferndale Trail Loop is an easy 2.6-mile circular route that allows you to experience different parts of the local trail system without retracing your steps.
Many trails in the South Temple area, particularly those in parks and natural areas, are generally dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and to check specific park regulations before you go, but the varied landscapes and wooded areas provide great opportunities for walks with your canine companion.
Hikes around South Temple often traverse wooded areas and floodplains, featuring old-growth trees and opportunities for observing local flora. Some trails, like those connected to Friar's Creek, offer scenic routes with features such as waterfalls and marked native plants. The region's natural beauty is a key highlight.
Yes, the area around South Temple offers several points of interest. You can explore historic sites like Wertz's Covered Bridge, or enjoy natural landmarks such as Antietam Lake. The Reading Pagoda is another notable man-made monument in the vicinity.
The spring and fall seasons are generally ideal for hiking in South Temple. Spring brings abundant wildflowers and pleasant temperatures, while fall offers comfortable weather and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, but many trails provide shade. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions may vary.
While specific public transport routes directly to trailheads may be limited, the Temple, Texas area has local transit options. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and routes to see if they align with your desired starting points for hiking trails.
Many parks and trailheads in the South Temple area, including South Temple Park, offer dedicated parking facilities. These are generally well-maintained and provide convenient access to the trails. It's always a good idea to check specific trail information for parking details before your visit.
The hiking trails in South Temple are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from 7 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse trail systems, the natural beauty of the wooded areas, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various skill levels.
Yes, the region's trails often follow waterways. The Friar's Creek Trail, for example, extends through wooded areas and along the creek, offering scenic routes that can include features like waterfalls. The presence of floodplains and natural waterways is a characteristic of the area's hiking experience.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.