Single Track Sunday
Place: Blue Marsh Lake, Bernville, PA
Ridden: November 2014
Click on video to play
Blue Marsh Lake is a man-made lake long the Tupelhocken Creek northwest of Reading, PA that features numerous outdoor activities. With over 36 miles of trail, 5,000 acres of land, 1,147 acres of water, picnic areas, a small beach and boat launches the lake can accommodate all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. Of course the reason we were there was to mountain bike. The 30 mile perimeter trail that goes around the lake makes for a great few hours of riding.
The trails have a mixture of surfaces ranging from hard-packed dirt, grass, gravel, abandoned roads, and single track. The routes travel through open fields and woodlands, offering views of the lake, forested areas, and wide-open vistas. The terrain is not especially technical, but there are some challenging climbs and super fast descents. The trails are also heavily used by runners/hikers, equestrians, and this time of year hunters; so always be on the look-out for others.
Being that it is a man-made lake, Blue Marsh has an interesting history. Blue Marsh was the name of the village that was located where the lake is now; it was the first settlement in the township. There were farms, homes, a church, schoolhouse, post office, and general store. Prior to flooding, some buildings were spared. Gruber Wagon Works was moved a safe distance away before the dam was created and Old Dry Run Farm had most buildings relocated out of the village. The dam was authorized by Congress for flood control, water supply, water quality, and recreation. The project was built and maintained by the Philadelphia District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, starting in 1974 and completed in 1979. The dam is located on the Tulpehocken Creek and the project's water control practices benefit the downstream communities.
Blue Marsh is an outdoor activity mecca with an interesting history. Definitely a great place to ride if you are looking for somewhere to get in a lengthy ride by doing the entire loop; but don't forget to take time to stop an enjoy the views of the lake. Just as an FYI- bring extra water in the summer. Places to fill bottles are scarce and the open fields are hot and sunny. Also, if doing the entire loop be committed to your ride, once you are on the opposite side of the lake from where you parked there is no way back except to finish the loop.
- words by Jess
- video by Joël