Pulpit Rock Viewpoint – The Pinnacle Viewpoint loop from Hamburg Reservoir
Pulpit Rock Viewpoint – The Pinnacle Viewpoint loop from Hamburg Reservoir
3.2
(6)
83
runners
Pulpit Rock Viewpoint – The Pinnacle Viewpoint loop from Hamburg Reservoir
02:41
19.3km
690m
Running
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.15 km
Hamburg Reservoir
Lake
6.48 km
Pulpit Rock Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
11.9 km
The Pinnacle Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
15.2 km
Pinnacle Trail – Appalachian Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
19.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
10.1 km
7.60 km
1.23 km
300 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
15.4 km
2.34 km
1.62 km
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Elevation
Highest point (490 m)
Lowest point (180 m)
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Weather
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Today
Sunday 5 July
32°C
21°C
89 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a truly rewarding challenge with some of Pennsylvania's best views, the Pulpit Rock Viewpoint – The Pinnacle Viewpoint loop from Hamburg Reservoir is a difficult jogging route that delivers. This 12.0-mile (19.3 km) loop packs in 2254 feet (687 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete. It's perfect for experienced joggers who don't mind technical terrain for a big payoff.
What to expect on Pulpit Rock Viewpoint – The Pinnacle Viewpoint loop from Hamburg Reservoir
The journey begins on a crushed stone service road from the Hamburg Reservoir, but don't let that fool you. Soon, you'll be tackling steep, rocky ascents towards Pulpit Rock, where the first panoramic views open up. The route then follows the notoriously rocky Appalachian Trail along the ridge to The Pinnacle, navigating boulder fields and earning Pennsylvania its 'Rocksylvania' nickname. The views from both Pulpit Rock and The Pinnacle are the main event, offering expansive vistas of the Lehigh Valley and distant farmland. The return leg, often via the Furnace Creek Trail, offers a gentler, mostly downhill path alongside the creek, providing a welcome change of pace. This trail is best for those who appreciate rugged, technical terrain and are prepared for significant climbs, making sturdy footwear essential.
Planning your visit
The trail starts from the Hamburg Reservoir parking lot. Be aware that the first half of the loop involves considerable elevation gain and rocky, uneven terrain, so plan your pace accordingly. While jogging is possible, expect to slow down or even walk through technical sections. During warmer months, keep an eye out for venomous snakes like Eastern Copperheads and Timber Rattlesnakes, especially at The Pinnacle. Sturdy footwear is a must for this challenging route.
Trail details
- Distance: 12.0 miles (19.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 2254 feet (687 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 40 minutes
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