Location: Lehigh Gap Nature Center, 8844 Paint Mill Road, Slatington, PA 18080
Distance: 2.2-mile loop (optional additional 0.4-mile Prairie Warbler Loop)

Join Wildlands for a guided hike through the remarkable landscape of Lehigh Gap Nature Center, where one of the region's most impressive environmental restoration stories continues to unfold. Decades of zinc smelting left this area severely contaminated, but extensive restoration efforts beginning in the 1980s transformed barren rock slopes into thriving habitats filled with native plants and wildlife. Today, otters, beavers, and a variety of bird species can be found throughout the preserve's 756 acres and 13 miles of trails.

Our approximately 2.2-mile loop hike begins on the L&NE Trail, where interpretive displays highlight the area's mining and railroad history. We'll visit viewpoints overlooking the site of the former New Jersey Zinc Company's West Plant before continuing along the Bobolink Trail and returning via the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor Trail, a level crushed-stone trail that is part of the larger 165-mile D&L Trail stretching from Bristol to Wilkes-Barre.

Participants who would like a little more adventure can join an optional walk around the 0.4-mile Prairie Warbler Loop, which features native, pollinator-friendly plant communities. Arrive early to explore the exhibits in the Osprey House Visitor Center and enjoy the beautiful native wildflower gardens.

What to Bring

• Water and snacks
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Weather-appropriate layers
• Long pants that can be tucked into socks

Additional Information

• Appropriate for all ages
• Leashed dogs are welcome
• Hiking poles are recommended (Wildlands will have poles available to borrow)
• Portable restrooms are available near the pavilion
• Indoor restrooms may be available if the visitor center is open

Please stay on designated trails to help protect this recovering landscape.