Great Places in the Lehigh Valley for Shaded Outdoor Workouts

Exercise is important to overall health and wellbeing and as a nurse I must practice what I preach.  I have shared with you that I recently started running and, much to my amazement, have discovered how much I enjoy a good run.  But, these hot days of summer just won’t quit!  I have been looking for some alternatives to running along the streets of my neighborhood—I can just feel the heat radiating up from the blacktop and the exhaust fumes soaking into my lungs!  In my quest, I have discovered a few outdoor gems right in my own backyard.

• Emmaus Community Park

I can literally run here from my house in Emmaus, but once I enter the park, it’s like I am a world away.  There is a wonderful paved path with a few "bumps" (too small to be called true hills) that winds around the community pool, playground and pavilions.  This is often a family outing for me starting with a walk/run from my house with my husband and young sons.  We then follow the path around the park and end up at the playground or even with a dip in the pool!  There is plenty of shade around the path and water fountains to help keep you cool.   

• South Mountain Trails

Again close to Emmaus, these trails are great for hiking, running, or biking and provide a scenic, shaded backdrop for you to enjoy.  There are over six miles of trails throughout the trail system.  The trails can get a bit narrow at some spots and you need to be aware of other trail users, especially mountain bikers, but they are fun for the family and the views from the top are totally worth it!  I have lived in the Lehigh Valley my whole life and have never seen it look more beautiful than from the top of this hike!  The Alpine Street entrance in Emmaus has a park, which is total bonus for the kids after a nice hike. 

• Bear Creek Mountain Resort

Located just outside of Macungie, Bear Creek is way more than just skiing in the winter.  There is an awesome trail system to run, hike, or bike that leads you around the ski slopes right up the mountain.  There are over 6.5 miles of trails with some bridges and they can be a bit challenging for young kids.  Aside from the views from the top, one of the best parts of this trail is dining at Bear Creek when you are done.

These are just a few of my favorite spots to beat the heat and still get in a great workout or enjoy a leisurely hike with my family.  If you are going to hike these or any other trails, make sure you have the proper equipment and are in reasonably good health.  You should always consult with a doctor before starting any new exercise program.  Most of all, remember to have fun and enjoy the view!