Many valuable open space resources worthy of discovery and preservation exist throughout Northampton County – scenic mountains and farmland views, river corridors and large forests, parks and historic sites. The Kittatinny Ridge to the north, provides a scenic backdrop with distinctive gaps, overlooks and a globally significant greenway. The Delaware River flows along the eastern portion of the County and the Lehigh River to west, provide ecological and recreational opportunities to all types of users. The southern portion of the County is bounded by the rolling hills of the Pennsylvania Highlands. Tying it all together are picturesque farmlands and woodlands that roll throughout the central regions of Northampton County.
Northampton County has an abundant variety of resources for outdoor recreation opportunities. Within its borders sits the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, Jacobsburg State Park & Environmental Education Center, Delaware Canal State Park, ten county parks and numerous local parks. Northampton County is a hub for major trail systems such as the D&L Trail, September 11th National Memorial Trail and the Liberty-Water Gap Trail, connecting to over 300-miles of land and water trails. Northampton County’s Open Space exist throughout from rolling hillsides and valleys to our waterways and flyways.
Northampton County, Pennsylvania, is known for its ambition and enduring spirit. One of the world’s largest industrial steel plants was born here. So too were America’s most prized 1800’s slate quarries. Thousands of laborers supported these operations, went off to World
Wars, and returned to invigorate the universities and businesses the
County is known for today. Over 300,000 people are thought to live here
now, and while their quality of life needs are different from the Industrial
Revolution, their determination is stronger than ever. In recent years, Northampton County residents voiced, repeatedly, their life interests are directly linked to the natural environment. They responded a resounding ‘yes’ to more land conservation. They asked for more support for farming, for habitat protection, and for outdoor
recreation. They declared given half a chance, they would spend more time and more money on these interests.
The Northern Tier Trail Feasibility Study is Northampton County’s presentation of an idea that when complete will improve the lives of its
residents, link the region’s largest trails, and connect local businesses with thousands of visitors and tourists. The study had three main goals:
To proof the alignment of a 35-mile trail from the Lehigh River to the Delaware River;
To identify the opportunities and constraints of linking the trail to existing parks, trails, boroughs and other special places;
To create an economic and tourism boost for the Northern-Tier;
…and, the findings of the study suggest the trail is feasible, and even more important, realizable in the near future!
To view the DRAFT Northern Tier Trail Feasibility Study, click here.
