Fall Foliage Hike Saturday: Wissahickon Gorge, northern section

Have you ever hiked into a gorge along a cascading stream through a gorgeous glen? Have you ever faced the Leni-Lenape chief who still stands at Council Rock? Have you walked through a covered bridge or across stepping stones in a creek bed?

On Saturday, you're invited to a FALL FOLIAGE HIKE at Philadelphia's Wissahickon Gorge - northern section. I can't guarantee the leaves will be blazing at full force, but I can promise a beautiful hike in a quiet and dreamy part of the surprisingly rural-feeling urban park.

Group hike, pictured on top of Glen Onoko's second waterfall, Lehigh Gorge

Meet us at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 5, 2013, at Starbucks in Chestnut Hill (8515 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA). 

NOTE (Here come the musts!): You must be able to walk at least five miles, must wear sturdy shoes for walking on dirt and rocks, and must carry enough water and snacks for a day-long activity.

We will be exiting the park by 4 p.m. There are multiple exit options along the way, but we will plan on exiting the park by 4 p.m., returning to Chestnut Hill near our starting point. It is convenient that both Chestnut Hill East and Chestnut Hill West SEPTA Regional Rail stations are accessible near entrance and exit trail heads!

HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL THERE! DM me for more information. SHARE with friends on social media. 

Let's hike Glen Onoko Falls and Broad Mountain at the Lehigh Gorge!

This weekend we will be hiking Glen Onoko Falls and Broad Mountain at the Lehigh Gorge. Located in Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains, this hike is strenuous and can be dangerous, so make sure you are prepared to enjoy this unique outdoors experience!

Glen Onoko Falls Trail warning (Photo borrowed from Jason Ward's blog)

Here is all you need to join in the fun:

Who: There is limited space available for this hike, but if you would like to come along please visit the Hiking Megalopolis Facebook page and send me a direct message. If you have a car, let me know!

What: Hiking the Glen Onoko Falls and Broad Mountain at the Lehigh Gorge, Jim Thorpe, PA

When: Meet at 7:30 a.m., Saturday, September 28, 2013, in the Super Fresh parking lot (1501 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122; We will return to Philadelphia by 6 p.m., possibly earlier.

Where: This is a strenuous hike. The first part of the hike starts on the banks of the Lehigh River and climbs the Lehigh Gorge to glorious views of the river valley below. The second part is a descent of Glen Onoko, which is a series of waterfalls with rocks that can be slick. 

Why: To enjoy the beautiful fall-like weather while exploring an amazing geological formation with impressive views.

How: Contact Mister B via the Hiking Megalopolis Facebook page if you would like to come on this hike.

WHAT YOU NEED:

• Carry a backpack.
• Layer your clothing. Since we will be doing a moderately strenuous hike, you may get quite warm, even though the morning will likely start out quite cold on Saturday. The high temperature will be about 72-degrees Fahrenheit (or 22-degrees Celsius); As such, make sure you bring layers of clothing. Also, if you get wet in the waterfalls, you will probably want to have a change of shirt and socks.
• Wear sturdy shoes with traction. Athletic shoes or shoes/boots made specifically for hiking should be worn. IMPORTANT: No espadrilles or street shoes with smooth soles should be worn. 
• Bring plenty of water. You should carry about three liters of water with you on this hike. 
• Bring food for lunch and snacks. Typical snacks, like trail mix and granola bars, are best for a hike. Also, bring a lunch that is easy to eat while sitting on a rock, like a sandwich, a burrito or a wrap.

For updates on this and other hikes, be sure to "like" Hiking Megalopolis on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/hikingmegalopolis.

If you have any questions about the hike, please email hike leader Brian Schwarz at briwrite@yahoo.com.

Hope to see you there!