Union Canal, Bicycle & Walking Trail — Attraction in Bern Township

We came here on a whim as I had to kill time while we waited for an appointment in Leesport. We love hiking and nature walks and this trail was closest to us. Perhaps there's another parking area I don't know about that makes the trail more accessible but the lot we originally found (near the bridge) made it nearly impossible to access the trail. There is no shoulder on the bridge and cars and large trucks were FLYING down the road. It didn't feel safe to walk over the bridge with two small children. We explored under the bridge overpass for a little while but I ended up driving to the other lot on the trail (near Fish Pond West) in hopes of getting to the actual trail. From there we walked that expanse of the trail - it was nice but nothing special.

Would we make the...

Only bike this path if you are looking for a leisurely ride with beautiful scenery. The path is very well maintained, but it's only 8-10 feet wide. It's full of blind corners, and even though it was an early weekday afternoon, plenty of people on the trail. It's relaxing, but you really need to be alert at all times and watch your speed. On the upside, this is one of the rare bike trails near water where you're REALLY near the water. Eight feet over and 8 feet down, and you're in the Tulpehocken Creek. There are several parks right on the path, a good number of benches that are smartly spaced, and a couple spots to put in a kayak or a small...

It's a great walking trail with plenty of wild life including deer and baby deer seen on the trail. The only issue that i encounter is when they do work on the trail and don't advise you like cuting trees. It must be maintained as they keep the grass mowed and add stone when needed due to heavy rain, but they should advise everyone to the maintenance of the work and put up closing signs at entrances to avoid those who use the trail. But all in all...