The best walks and hikes around Muhlenberg Park

The Neversink Mountain Orange Loop offers a diverse hiking experience, guiding you through peaceful wooded areas and over rocky sections with some steep uphill climbs. You'll discover historical elements like old stone trestle bridge ruins and be rewarded with panoramic views of Reading and the Schuylkill River, especially from the "View of the river" highlight. This moderate 4.7-mile (7.6 km) loop, with its 640 feet (195 metres) of elevation gain, provides a satisfying journey that typically takes around 2 hours and 11 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to Neversink Mountain is straightforward, as the trailhead is generally accessible for hikers. While specific parking information isn't always detailed, arriving earlier in the day can help ensure a spot, especially on weekends. This route is a great choice for a refreshing escape, and comfortable hiking shoes are recommended to tackle the varied terrain. Always bring enough water, particularly if you're hiking during warmer weather.

What makes the Neversink Mountain Orange Loop stand out is its immersive experience within the natural beauty of the preserve, offering breathtaking vistas of the Schuylkill River and the City of Reading. Beyond the main river view, you can also catch glimpses of Mount Penn and the iconic Reading Pagoda from various cliff lines. The trail's blend of natural scenery and historical remnants, like the old stone trestle bridge ruins, makes it a notable option among popular trails and routes in the Berks County area.

The Union Canal Trail offers a delightful escape into nature and history, perfect for a leisurely day out. This moderate 10.6-mile (17.1 km) hiking route follows the tranquil Tulpehocken Creek, providing continuous riverside views and ample shade from the surrounding woodlands. You'll traverse mostly flat crushed-stone paths, passing by historic canal locks and the iconic bright red Wertz's Covered Bridge, making it an engaging journey for all ages and fitness levels.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is accessible year-round with multiple parking options, including at the Berks County Heritage Center. Restrooms are available at key points, enhancing convenience. The estimated duration for this hike is around 4 hours and 23 minutes, with a gentle 260 feet (79 metres) of elevation gain, so you can comfortably enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Just note that pets are generally not permitted on the trail or in connected Berks County Parks.

This trail is a segment of the much larger Schuylkill River Trail and also connects to the Blue Marsh Lake Trail System, offering opportunities for extended adventures. Beyond its natural beauty, the Union Canal Trail is steeped in 19th-century industrial history, with visible remnants of the canal that once transported goods across Pennsylvania. It's a fantastic way to combine a pleasant walk with a fascinating glimpse into the region's past.

The Muhlenberg Rail Trail offers a pleasant, easy escape on a fully paved asphalt surface, perfect for a relaxed walk or jog. As you follow the former railroad corridor, you'll encounter a mix of residential and light industrial scenery, with some sections shaded by a tree canopy. Keep an eye out for the striking, mothballed Empire Steel Castings site, whose towering structures provide a unique visual landmark along the way.

This 3.5-mile (5.6 km) route is incredibly accessible, with a minimal 66 feet (20 metres) of elevation gain, making it an easy outing that takes about 1 hour and 26 minutes. Parking is available at various points, and the trail is well-maintained with benches and trash receptacles. It's a great option for a quick exercise session or a family stroll, though be aware there are no public restrooms directly on the trail.

Originally a rail line, the Muhlenberg Rail Trail was converted into a multi-use pathway in 2003, preserving a piece of local history. It's a popular community asset, connecting to local parks like Temple Playground and offering access to businesses and schools. The trail is also dog-friendly, making it a convenient choice for you and your furry companion.

Step onto the Wyomissing Creek and Schuylkill River Trail Loop for a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultivated charm. This easy 4.3-mile (6.9 km) hike guides you along tree-lined paths beside the tranquil Wyomissing Creek, past a stunning pond, and through the picturesque Reading Public Museum Arboretum with its beautiful gardens and footbridges. The route then transitions to serene stretches along the Schuylkill River, offering a pleasant mix of paved, gravel, and unpaved surfaces underfoot.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this accessible loop, which features a gentle 130 feet (40 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 1 hours and 47 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for families and beginners, or anyone seeking a relaxed outdoor experience. The trail is well-suited for a leisurely pace, allowing you to soak in the diverse scenery without feeling rushed.

What makes this trail truly stand out is its unique integration into the broader regional network, connecting to the Greater Reading Trail system and the expansive Schuylkill River Trail. This allows for longer adventures if you choose, but the loop itself provides a perfect balance of natural exploration and cultural enrichment, thanks to its passage through the historically significant areas along the Schuylkill and the arboretum's offerings.

The Ferndale Trail in Berks County, Pennsylvania, offers a rewarding moderate hike through the Mount Penn Preserve. You'll traverse forest trails, enjoying the natural surroundings before reaching the distinctive Reading Pagoda, a unique man-made landmark that provides a clear destination for your efforts. The route provides a good blend of natural scenery and a point of interest.

This 5.9-mile (9.5 km) hike involves 872 feet (266 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 2 hours and 46 minutes to complete. While specific parking details aren't available, the trail is generally accessible within the preserve. It's a great option for those seeking a moderate workout with a clear objective, and it's suitable for most hikers looking for a few hours on the trail.

What makes the Ferndale Trail notable is its combination of natural forest hiking with the architectural curiosity of the Reading Pagoda. This landmark, perched on Mount Penn, offers a distinctive cultural element to your outdoor adventure, setting it apart from purely wilderness routes in the region. It's a solid choice if you're exploring the best trails for hiking in Berks County.