Trexler Nature Preserve

ADDENDUM: There are A LOT of reviews for the Trexler Nature Preserve that should not be on here. A lot are talking about the Zoo, which is a completely separate thing. The Nature Preserve is a completely free park with loads of nature trails for hiking, biking, and various spots for picnicking and relaxing, as well as spots for splashing around in the creek and fishing.nnMuch of the area is a nice tree and grassy area, with various trails twisting and turning around the area. Good area for hiking/jogging. Various spots for just sitting and enjoying the views, or picnicking. Jordan Creek twisting in and around the area is good for splashing around, or even in some spots good for short hikes up or down the middle of it for a refreshing jaunt on warmer days (not to mention the Ford crossing for driving through the creek). A few spots for somewhat level hiking/jogging, but many trails can be rather hilly. The hilly trails would be good for getting your heart and lungs pumping more in a short time and breaking a good sweat. The little bit of more level areas would be good for biking (all though they could use some kind of easier access to loop around for the trail that goes up around the north end of the zoo towards one of the covered bridges), and they have some areas designated as mountain biking trails, but you need to be well in shape and very skilled in dealing with steeper hills and possible rough spots. Some trails aren't quite as visible as you might hope. One section currently has mostly barren hillsides, which appear like remains of trees/brush were torn down and broken up and scattered about, which attributes to some trails not being very visible, and is not very attractive. Hopefully they'll work on cleaning it up a tiny bit real soon, and planting little clusters of native trees, bushes, and perennials to help fill it in and make it look more natural and get some of those trails more defined.

One of the best places in the valley! I love coming here for walks with my kids, or sometimes I just drive through when I'm having a stressful day. The scenery is just gorgeous (aside from the tent worms, which are all over the reserve. What's up with that?) and I love looking at the amazing animals. It's just the thing to help me relax.

Amazing Nature Preserve with many walking and biking trails of various levels of elevation change and flat trails along Jordan's Creek.nnGreat spot to spend time with family and friends outside. Most wore masks!

Plenty of trails to choose from, for various ability levels. Went with a group of parents and children, and we had plenty of space to spread out. Walking up the hill from the creek to the observation building was a bit hard for some people, but doable. advanced people had an option to go on the longer trails so everyone was satisfied. Beautiful scenery and scenic trails.

One of the most beautiful places in the entire Lehigh Valley to walk and hike. There are easier trails like the the trail that runs along the Jordan Creek. That trail is mostly flat and shows you a covered bridge and the famous ford river crossing. The elk trail is a very steep uphill, but the view of the valley and the zoo at the top is worth it. The border trail is about 9 miles long with lots of hills and flats. It is one of our favorite trails. You can start at one point and have another car parked at another spot if you can’t do then entire trail. Don’t forget, too, to view a sunset at the observatory area sometime.