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Constructed along the route of an old rail line that once served several slate quarries, the 3.3-mile Slate Heritage Trail celebrates one of the resources that once played a prominent role in the economy of the Lehigh Valley.
Much like the nearby Ironton Trail is an outdoor, linear museum devoted to the iron and cement industries, the Slate Heritage Trail treats users to ruins of the local quarries, most notably the NY Tunnel Quarry, so named because the tunnels mined into cliffside reminded the owner of the NY subway system. Slate heaps left from other quarrying operations can be seen off the trail further west and the towns that the trail connects, Slatington, Emerald and Slatedale, all attest to the role that the grey rock played in the development of the region.
The trail's route through a wooded greenbelt provides serenity and welcome shade in the warmer months of the year and people can often be seen fishing in the aptly named Trout Creek. The trail has a smooth, asphalt surface through Slatington, the largest and easternmost town, but turns to crushed stone at the quarry east of Emerald. Although the western segment of the trail has been repaired since the floods a couple years back, the surface is pretty loose, so cyclists should be careful. The section from Emerald to Slate Dale is also notable for the lush forests it passes through, giving the feeling of being in rural NE PA to the north rather than the suburban Lehigh Valley.
Other highlights mentioned in earlier reviews include the slate benches, several of which double as memorials devoted to the deceased, the covered bridge situated halfway between Slatington and Emerald and the remains of a demolished RR bridge in the latter town.
Although the trail itself is only a little over 3 miles in length, it links to the much longer D&L Trail on its eastern end and could possibly be extended west toward Jacksonville and Kempton in the future.
I basically do the trail from Oaks to Schwenksville. From where I start my bicycling on the SRT, that is a 45 mile round trip. For years, there was sewer line replacement along the river, which resulted in a temporary line along the early part of the trail, but when they finished, a large portion was resurfaced with firmly packed gravel, making for easy riding. It is shaded, so cool on hot days. The two road crossings early on (Cedar Mill and Arcola) can be a bit tricky, but it seems signage for motorists has helped, and for crossing Rte 29, there are overhead flashers, which really help. Sections that used to be less fun after rains have seen asphalt laid, which is helpful. There is a small cafe in Schwenksville that can be nice to visit. The trail is not usually crowded, with more walkers than bicyclists. There is water and rest rooms at both Lower Perkiomen Valley Park and Central Perkiomen Valley Park. One can also access the Audubon Trail to get to the James Audubon Center from Lower Perkiomen Valley Park.
Overall, a very nice paved trail that’s well maintained but very poor connectivity and signage in Goshen. If not for that poor connection, I would have rated this trail five stars. Well worth checking out and hopefully Goshen will improve that stretch in the future.
Perfect for my elderly dog since we have not been on long walks for the past year. Beautiful scenery of the river, geese flying close to the water, a place to let your loved dog get close to and into the water, and places to sit and just enjoy nature!! Great for MAHA 15 minute walks!
While all are grateful that bike and pedestrian access were built into the new TZ Bridge, the rough bumpy surface is completely awful. Neither easy on the feet nor pleasant for bikes. I don’t know if it was like this a few years ago or was planned this way, but it’s disappointing.
Beautiful ride through woodlands and farmland. The crushed stone can be a little tricky in spots where it is slightly piled up and a couple of gravelly spots. There are a few small hills and a short ride alongside busy Forked River Road. I would like to go again during peak foliage.
What a wonderful ride , we did a total of 30 miles from Middletown to Chester and back ! Awesome trail wonderful maintenance of the trail!! Would recommend to anyone that wants to ride Loved the many Jonny on the spots and benches along the trail! As well as eating and drinks along the way to buy ! Even a bike repair station on the trail!!!! ¿¿¿¿ Kevin & Pat Bennett
I started in bristol and made it to point pleasant so far. I've seen stuff I have never seen. I love riding this trail.
One of my favorite trails in the area. Lots of parking at the High Bridge trail head
This is really a nice trail. Parking is very convenient to access the trail as well and you can access many retailers and restaurants including a grocery store easily from that trail (if you want to run in and get a quick drink). Plus access to the park on that trail. Plan to come back with my bicycle and bike the trail. Looking forward to the extension up into Newtown.
The trail is in great condition. Coming from the D&L is a little tricky to find. It runs along Trout creek and starts out paved. It's beautiful scenery and wildlife tucked. Well maintained. Signs along the route. Ends in Slate Park
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