Single Track Sunday
Place: D & L Canal Trail, Freemansburg Trailhead, PA
Ridden: November 2014
Click on video to play
The race season has come to an end, thus rides are becoming more about leisurely riding and enjoying the scenery than about training.
In the spirit of taking a relaxing, fun ride this edition of Single Track Sunday we explored the D&L Canal Trail, starting at the Freemansburg Trailhead. We often ride this in the winter and I take this when commuting to work. During these previously mentioned rides we often have time constraints and/or just need to get the miles in, so not much time for stopping. The ride this time was different. We took time to stop and explore the historic sites and scenery along the way. Old canal locks, a grist mill, and views of the Lehigh River were all part of this ride.
The D&L Trail follows the 165 mile route that anthracite coal took from mine to market. It winds through northern mountains and along the banks of the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers through northeast PA, the Lehigh Valley,and Bucks County. The trail passes through towns, industrial powerhouses and along remnants of the Lehigh and Delaware canals. This earthen path allows walkers, hikers, and cyclists to see some of PA's finest wild lands, waterfalls, wildflowers, and wildlife; while exposing users to an important part of PA history.
We entered the trail at the Freemansburg Trailhead and spent most of the ride heading toward Easton. This relatively isolated section of trail connects Freemansburg and Hugh Moore Park. Located along the former canal prism, the only sounds users will hear is the flowing Lehigh River and the songs of birds. The remnants of canal infrastructure are scattered along the path, and a close-up view of the chain dam and Island Park are highlights of the trip. A side trip into Hugh Moore Park and one can visit the mules that are there as part of the park educational exhibits. The trail is popular with runners, cyclists, and people walking their dogs.
A nice place for a walk, ride, or family outing to enjoy nature and history.
- words by Jess
- video by Joël
