By: Pat Kobela, Guest Blogger
The Red, Green and Yellow Trails all begin at the parking lot of the Bear Creek Preserve on Route 115, approximately 5 miles past Pennsylvania Turnpike Exit 105. This easy access area offers several trails that crisscross and extend past each other allowing hikers to pick their mileage for the day. Hiking the Red Trail, counter clockwise, starts at the parking lot and does not climb the hill to the main office. Eventually the Red Trail merges at the first common landmark of all three trails: the bench and bridge at the creek at the top of the waterfall. One doesn’t ever really get tired of this spot. Cross the bridge and continue on Red Trail by passing the turns and splits for the Green and Yellow Trails and onto some great inclines that get your blood pumping. Although the inclines lead you to tree line, these vistas are best in early spring and fall with no leaves on the trees. Cross over the pipeline twice for some distance views and easy landmarks on the map. Great photo opportunities here!
Nearing the White Haven Road Tailhead, purple and gray blazes start to appear, hike past them to continue on the Red Trail. Once you meander through this part of the trail, the long straight away is currently under construction but still passable. Spring is a wet time of the year, so make sure you have proper footwear. Coming back around, the trail merges again with the Green and Yellow Trails ending at the main office. It’s a total of 6 miles for an approximately three hour hike.
Click here to find more great trails to explore #HereinLC!