Saucon Rail Trail Beckons

Saucon Rail Trail, Hellertown

One of the Lehigh Valley's greatest features is its abundance of walking, cycling and running trails. Whether its the macadam surface of the suburban Palmer Bike Path or the shaded serenity of Nor-Bath Trail, it's always a treat to visit these former trolley and rail lines.

For my money (which is nothing, because they're all free), the Lehigh Canal tow path is the best of 'em all. From Allentown's Canal Park to the Bethlehem Boat Club, you can travel 10.4 miles in one direction. For endurance athletes or avid cyclists, you can even extend your trip into downtown Easton.

Yesterday, for the first time, I checked out the Saucon Rail Trail, a 5-mile stretch of former SEPTA line between Hellertown and Upper Saucon Community Park. I've heard lots of good things about this path, but wanted to see for myself.

Caleb Walsh, age 4, and younger brother Declan, prepare for speed record

First, it has to be the widest of all the bike paths I've traveled in the Lehigh Valley. That's a big plus for family rides. Second, the surface - crushed stone - is perfect for running, yet remains gentle enough for even a road bike. Third, no surprises. Portions of most trails have rocks or tree roots that have taken me out more than once. This surface seems to be much more carefully groomed. Fourth, except for a half mile or so in Hellertown, it is well-shaded. Fifth, it is certainly the most level course I've ever ridden. It's a very slight incline, nearly imperceptible, from Hellertown to Upper Saucon's Park. Finally, drivers at intersecting roads are remarkably courteous. They all slowed down and stopped when they saw me, even though they have no obligation to yield to a cyclist. (Maybe they were luring me in).

Any downsides to this path? One minor complaint. No mile markers. At least none that I noticed.

If you want to see some of the most posh homes in the Lehigh Valley, this is a nice trail to ride. God, some of the homes were downright obscene as I pedaled through J.B. Reilly country.

There's also an assortment of very attractive women, promenading up and down. One of them, I kid you not, was clad in a bikini as she pushed her two children along in a stroller Her back was decorated with tattoos of her two boys. Never saw that before. She told me they were real, too. (Hey, I had to find some reason to talk to her).

If you are cycling there, as I did, I'd recommend using the side streets to stay off Hellertown's very busy Main Street, which is clogged with NY and NJ transplants.

Although the temps were much cooler yesterday than they were in our most recent heat wave, I still had to ride by this:

On the way home, I jumped in for a swim.

Very refreshing.