The great outdoors welcomes us back in spring, when even 50-degree weather feels like a warm caress. From greenways within our cities to destination preserves beyond the fringes of the Valley, here are five spots to reconnect with nature as the flowers kick into bloom.
1. Karl Stirner Arts Trail
This 1.75-mile length of path is a sculpture park winding between Easton’s Bushkill Creek and a stretch of Route 22. Named for a self-taught sculptor and proponent of both Easton and the arts, this beautifully green walk leads from one thought-provoking piece of art to another, planting human creation in the natural world to stirring effect.
2. Ironton Rail-Trail
Following the track of the erstwhile Ironton Railroad, the rail-trail traces the history of an area once dominated by industry. The ruins of mills and old kilns rise out of the woods to add color to your walk or bike ride on the paved path. The trail has many access points and follows Coplay Creek through the 110-acre Whitehall Parkway.
3 . Mariton Wildlife Sanctuary
240 Sunnyside Rd., Easton | natlands.org/mariton-wildlife-sanctuary
Just north of Riegelsville, this pet-friendly sanctuary protects the wild habitat while offering 200 acres and six miles of trails. Situated on a hillside, the treks can get steep, but how else would they take you to Mariton’s lookout spots over the Delaware River? Birds also love this spot, so bring your binoculars and check out the blind.
4. Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center
400 Belfast Rd., Nazareth | jacobsburgEEC
Lehigh Valley denizens will gladly stray from the tri-city area for one park in particular, and that’s Jacobsburg. With 19 miles of trails from the easy creekside stroll to the strenuous escarpment, its deep and beautiful woods are far from your workaday cares. The Henry’s Woods area offers a patch of old growth as well as a lovely picnicking spot.
5. Trexler Nature Preserve
Game Preserve Rd., Schnecksville | lehighcounty.org/departments/parks-and-recreation/our-parks/trexler-preserve
More than 18 miles of trails take visitors along creeks, through covered bridges and in view of bison, elk and white-tailed deer at this jewel in Lehigh County’s crown. Terrific views and lush woodlands invite hikes, bikes and walks for the whole family, with the Lehigh Valley Zoo nearby if you need a further fauna fix.
Published as “5 Things” in the April 2025 edition of Lehigh Valley Style magazine.
