Lock Ridge Furnace Park Loop
Lock Ridge Furnace Park Loop
3.1
(2)
35
hikers
00:16
1.07km
0m
Hiking
The Lock Ridge Furnace Park Loop offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and industrial history, making it one of the best hikes in Lock Ridge Furnace Park for a quick, immersive experience. You'll wander along shaded, tree-lined paths, with the impressive stone arches of the Lock Ridge Furnace ruins resembling a "stone castle" as a constant, captivating backdrop. In spring, the field of bluebells adds a vibrant splash of color, creating a truly picturesque scene along Swabia Creek.
This easy 0.7-mile (1.1 km) hiking route, with a gentle 14 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, takes only about 16 minutes to complete, making it ideal for all skill levels and family-friendly outings. The path is well-maintained and suitable for strollers, joggers, and even bikes. Parking is readily available at the park, which is a popular spot for photography, so consider visiting during off-peak hours for a quieter experience.
Beyond the scenic loop, the Lock Ridge Furnace Park is a hidden gem that preserves a significant piece of Lehigh Valley's industrial past. The furnace, operational from 1868 to 1921, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and you can explore outdoor exhibits detailing the iron-making process. The on-site Lock Ridge Furnace Museum provides even more context, making this short trail a rich historical journey.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
966 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
994 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Today
Sunday 12 July
28°C
18°C
48 %
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Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Parking is available directly at Lock Ridge Furnace Park in Alburtis, Pennsylvania. The trail is easily accessible from the park's designated parking areas.
While the trail is generally considered dog-friendly, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors to Lock Ridge Furnace Park.
The trail is enjoyable year-round, but early spring is particularly special due to the blooming field of bluebells (which are actually grape hyacinths), creating a picturesque landscape. Summer offers pleasant, shaded paths.
There are no general entrance fees to access Lock Ridge Furnace Park or its trails. However, permits are required for formal events such as photography sessions or weddings held at the site.
Yes, the Lock Ridge Furnace Park Loop is considered an easy trail, making it suitable for beginners, families, and even those with strollers. It features mostly paved paths and gentle hills.
The terrain is generally easy, consisting primarily of paved, tree-lined paths with some gentle hills. It's well-maintained and accessible for various activity levels.
The most prominent historical feature is the well-preserved remains of the Lock Ridge Furnace, a former coal-burning iron furnace that operated from 1868 to 1921. You'll see impressive stone structures, including beautiful arches, and a large pile of slag. The Lock Ridge Furnace Museum also offers outdoor exhibits.
You can expect shaded, tree-lined paths, especially pleasant in summer. Swabia Creek runs through the park, adding to the natural charm. In early spring, a notable field of bluebells (grape hyacinths) blooms, offering a vibrant display.
The loop is approximately 1.1 km (0.7 miles) long and typically takes about 16 minutes to complete at a leisurely hiking pace.
Beyond general park etiquette, remember that while the furnace ruins are a popular spot for photography, formal sessions or events require a permit. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so please respect the historical structures.
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