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Trail review: Ironton Rail-Trail in Whitehall-Coplay
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The Ironton Rail-Trail is a hidden gem located north of Allentown in Whitehall-Coplay. Created as part of the nationwide Rails-to-Trails program on the site of the former Ironton Railroad tracks, this mostly flat trail takes runners, walkers and bicyclists through a beautiful and peaceful wooded area well hidden from the nearby congestion of Route 145.
The mostly paved 9.2 mile trail is composed of two distinct sections that can easily be combined for a long run or ride. Although the trail has numerous access points, including Hokendauqua Park in Whitehall and Saylor Park in Coplay, it formally begins in North Whitehall, where the spur section follows the Coplay Creek to its confluence with the Lehigh River. The trail then begins its 5.5 mile loop through Whitehall and Coplay, passing local historic sites including the Biery Yards and the Saylor Cement Kilns
Easy-to-find mile markers make it easy to decide just how far you’d like to run. For a short and easy jog, cross the over the Hokendauqua Bridge (next to the park), run through the Biery Yards and turn back after one or two miles. For more of a challenge, complete the 5.5 mile loop. And for days you’re in for the long-haul, run the loop plus the entire spur for a great outdoor trek. The trail’s layout makes it easy to create your own workout in a scenic and natural setting. There are just a handlful of points where the trail intersects with roadways, and most of these have little if any traffic driving by.
The trail is open year-round, and also hosts numerous events like the annual Iron Rail Trail 10k race, usually held in May. Next time you want to take a relaxing run and maybe escape from reality, take a trip around the Ironton Rail-Trail. For more information including a trail map, visit www.irontonrailtrail.org.
Trail rating: 4.5 out of 5 (convenient restroom facilities for those on a long run would push it to a 5)
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