Place: South Mountain Bethlehem, PA
Ridden: December 2014
Ride Video
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Ride Review
These are what Joël and I would consider our local, hometown trails. They are only a few miles from our house, an easy ride there on the roads and a short enough ride that Clifford can travel there in his cart. This a favorite spot and common location for the Sunday morning group ride we are part of.
This trail system was built when mountain biking was just starting. The trails were built by and are maintained by the individuals who ride them; with many of the people who built them still riding there. Trails sometimes change due to things such as fallen trees, erosion, and power company activities; occasionally a new trail is built. This keeps things interesting and fresh.
With names such as Lung Buster, Bones, Superman, and Dude Where's My Ball one may wonder what type of trails these are. They are rocky, gnarly, and unforgiving. There is never an "easy ride" done at Lehigh. The majority is single track, with a couple of old jeep trails and power company access roads here and there. A few miles of downhill trails have been built, adding to the fun. The trails climb up and down the side of South Mountain with a few miles looping all around the top of the mountain. There are some spectacular views of South Bethlehem and Hellertown.
Total mileage is at least 15; probably even 20 or more if one doesn't mind looping back onto the same trail for a bit to reach a different trail. With a little road riding, these trails can be connected to Sals (Walking Purchase) and even South Mountain Emmaus (Alpine) for an all day epic ride.
- words by Jess
- video by Joël