Wildlands Conservancy - Get Out! for Wellness: Walnutport Canal Spur, D&L Trail

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Wildlands Conservancy Staff

Get Out! for Wellness - D&L Trail, Walnutport Canal Spur

We’ll head north on the tow path through Earl F. Snyder Park, named in honor of the man who was the spark plug in 1958 to get Walnutport’s section of the canal protected and preserved. After our hike, we’ll get a tour of the Walnutport Lock-tender’s House, one of only two remaining stone lock-tender’s houses along the D&L. Allow time for this step back in time! It’s revealing.

We’ll be on the tow path the whole way, a level earth and cinder path along the Lehigh Canal. We’ll walk 1.5 miles to Lock #22. Those who want to go the entire 4.5 miles round-trip will see the remains of Lock #21 where the river entered the canal. This is in view of the bridge over the Lehigh where Mountain Road and Route 248 intersect. Just upstream of the bridge is the Lehigh Gap Nature Center–another great place to visit!

This 3-4.5 mile hike is appropriate for all ages. Wear comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen. Dogs on leash are welcome. Restrooms are across the river in Slatington’s riverside park.

DIRECTIONS: From Allentown, take Route 145 north for 13 miles to Walnutport. Turn left at traffic light were Burger King and McDonald’s are located. Go over railroad tracks and make the 3rd left onto Lehigh Street. If you cross the Lehigh River, you went too far. We’ll meet in the parking lot near the Boat Ramp. This lot can get busy, so park snuggly please! GPS:

This walk is free and is part of the Get Out! for Wellness series, funded by Lehigh Valley Health Network with a mission to connect healthy lifestyles with nature.

Questions: Brandon Swayser, bswayser@wildlandspa.org