Loop hike on the trails of South Mountain Preserve.

This preserve features woodland trails, large rock outcroppings, small stream crossings, moderate inclines, and several boardwalks. We will start the hike from Klines Lane parking lot at 11am so that folks can first stop at the Emmaus Farmers Market which opens at 10am... I'll be there! Sturdy hiking boots are recommended as the terrain is moderately rocky and some areas may be muddy. Bring water and lunch/snacks. Steady rain cancels.

Details
Hike / bike / on-water distance: 7-8 miles
Hike rating: D+
Meeting place: Klines Lane parking lot (just east of the 2nd set of RR tracks), Emmaus, PA
Posted on meetup.com? YES
Leader: Paula Uhrin 484-951-4299

We will have our potluck Holiday dinner followed by our monthly business meeting and winter hike scheduling.

NOTE: START TIME FOR THIS EVENT IS 6:30 Bring your favorite dish to share with others. Following the business meeting we will be scheduling hikes and other winter events. Please complete the AHC Hike/Event form and give to the Hike Scheduling Coordinator.

Details
Meeting place: St. Timothy's Lutheran Church, 140 South Ott Street, Allentown, PA Enter from the back parking lot
Posted on meetup.com? YES
Leader: Paula Uhrin 484-951-4299
Co-leader: Karen Gradel 267-424-4602

A great chance to gain confidence and skills for your next backpacking adventure.

This Beginner's Backpacking Weekend is tailored for AHC beginner backpackers led by Alexis McCallister, an experienced AT thru-hiker, Appalachian Trail Section Maintainer, and recent instructor at the Treksylvania’s Backpacking Essentials event. Limited to just 8 participants, this weekend offers a unique opportunity to learn essential backpacking skills and the basics of safe outdoor travel in a small, supportive group. This is a chance to gain confidence and skills for your next backpacking adventure. The cost is just your time, food and gear. To register please email or text Howard N. Reid Jr. at howardnreidjr@gmail.com, or cell 610-420-8194.

Start: 9am Saturday Dec 7th
End: 10am Sunday Dec 8th
Location: Appalachian Trailhead on Ashfield Rd.
Route: AT Northbound, from Ashfield Rd to SR-873. Campsite 4 mile in from Ashfield Rd.

Weather permitting. If there is rain or the temperature drops below 30 we will postpone until the spring.

Agenda for Trip:
I. Meet at trailhead Campsite on Ashfield Road.
II. Review Leave No Trace.
III. Dig an adequate cat hole.
IV. Hike along the AT, practicing navigation, stop for lunch and continuing to designated Campsite (Campsite can support tents or hammocks).
V. Enjoy evening at site with support as needed to use gear, ask questions etc. Make and eat dinner.
VI. Next morning breakfast then break down camp. Hike down last mile to parking lot.

Basic Packing List:
Sleep System: hammock or tent setup, sleep pad, sleeping bag.
Clothes: warm layers. Change for bed. Wool socks. Hat/beanie for sleeping.
Food: lunch, dinner, breakfast.
Cook System. Bear bag or canister (have some for sign out if needed).
Water bottles with a Filtration system. No water at campsite. Water is 0.5 mile from Campsite. So 1 mile round-trip.
Electronics: recharging, Headlamp, in-reach/solo/spot, etc. (Will help you learn to use if you need assistance)
Other: Sitting pad, first aid kit, compass, privy kit. (Shovel. Toilet paper, etc.)

We will have a Virtual Shakedown Zoom Meeting on Tuesday Dec 3rd at 7pm. You will receive a link to Zoom Meeting after registration.

Details
Hike / bike / on-water distance: 8 miles
Hike rating: B
Meeting place: To register please email Howard N. Reid Jr. at howardnreidjr@gmail.com, or text to 610-420-8194 cell.

Posted on meetup.com? NO
Leader: Howard Reid 610-420-8194

8.3 miles point to point

A rocky challenging hike that starts at Wind Gap and ends at the trailhead just north of Bangor. The trail is steep at parts as it climbs up Blue Mountain so wear sturdy boots. This is a point-to-point hike so all hikers need to confirm attendance with hike leader so transportation can be coordinated. Weather cancels hike and hikers should bring snacks, lunch and lots of fluids.

Hike Leader: Howard Reid (610) 420-8194 howardnreidjr@gmail.com

Details
Hike / bike / on-water distance: 8.3 miles
Hike rating: C+
Meeting place: 9 East 3rd Street, Wind Gap, PA 18091 Coordinates: 40.8608, -75.2925
Posted on meetup.com? YES
Leader: Howard Reid 610-420-8194

The annual holiday hike around Bethlehem PA enjoying the sights and sounds of the season.

We will hike around the historic portion of downtown Bethlehem and also make a trip to the South side. The plan is to walk for two and a half hours at a leisurely pace. There is opportunity to only do part of the hike for those wanting a shorter hike. Rain cancels the hike. No need to check in ahead of time, just show up at the meeting place.

Details
Hike / bike / on-water distance: 5 miles
Hike rating: A
Meeting place: Plaza between the Bethlehem Library and City Hall on Church Street in Bethlehem, PA.
Posted on meetup.com? NO
Leader: Mike "Sparky" Wuerstle 267-374-0324 bluegrasshorizon@yahoo.com