Join us for "Bible, Boots, and Backpacks" — a series of unique hikes led by Father Charles Zlock. On these journeys, we'll explore nature while reflecting on Pope Francis' message in Laudato Si’, an invitation to care for our planet and each other. It's a chance to walk, reflect, and connect with both creation and our Creator. Everyone is welcome, so grab a friend and come along for inspiration, community, and a breath of fresh air.
The Details *UPDATED*
Saturday, October 26: WISSAHICKON PARK
*The location for the Saturday October 26 Bibles, Boots and Backpacks HAS CHANGED! New location is the start of Forbidden Drive and the intersection of Northwestern Avenue, Thomas Road and Andorra Road. It's near Chestnut Hill University and the Northwestern Stables on the West Northwestern Avenue
Trail: South on Forbidden Drive
Length: 25 minutes - 1 hour
Terrain: Easy. Kid friendly
Starting time: 10 AM
Meeting Place: Intersection of Northwestern Avenue, Thomas Road and Andorra Road
The Hike:
Past Bells Mill Road to Thomas Mill Covered Bridge (15-20 minutes)
Further to Rex Avenue Bridge (9 minutes)
CHOICE:
Turn around and walk back to car on Forbidden Drive (25-30 minutes: Easy walking)
Cross bridge and walk rugged, dangerous, dark and deer infested Orange Trail back to Germantown Avenue, past Chestnut Hill College and back to cars (about 40 minutes)
Sunday, October 27: VALLEY FORGE NATIONAL PARK
Trail: Mount Joy Trail
Length: 1 hour
Terrain: Moderate
Starting time: 2 PM
Meeting Place: Knox's Quarters parking lot off of Valley Forge Road/Route 252.
From PA Turnpike:
Get off King of Prussia exit.
Drive towards I-76 (Schuylkill Expressway). Once through toll booth, Immediately GET IN RIGHT LANE
Take Exit for US 202 South (stay in LEFT lane of exit to 202 South. NOT towards Swedesford Road)
Get off Devon/Route 252 Exit. End of ramp, go right onto 252 North/Valley Forge Road.
Drive into Valley Forge Park. 252 curves around to the left. Parking is on left after the curve.
Look for a bright red Honda Accord with a handsome priest sporting a fetching hiking ensemble.
The Hike
We will be hiking Mount Joy. Kids can handle it. From the parking lot, we'll climb up to the top of a hill and turn left on the Mount Joy Trail. The hike circles the mountain from here. Terrain is level or goes downhill after that point.
Near the end (after 30 minutes), in sight of the parking lot, you can walk back to the parking lot. There are also options to extend the hike for the more adventurous types.
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