Every day, local residents and visitors alike can be found enjoying the Levee Loop Trail that surrounds the Brodhead Creek in Monroe County. Whether walking their dogs or walking to work, people are taking advantage of the 4.5-mile loop that connects the communities of East Stroudsburg, Stroudsburg, and Stroud Township.
It wasn’t always like this. Constructed in the aftermath of deadly floods in the 1950s, the levee separated the residents of Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg and divided the communities.
More than a half-century later, the Levee Loop Trail, with support from the Keystone Fund, is bringing communities back together and uniting neighbors.
In addition to reconnecting people to the beautiful Brodhead Creek, the trail system provides easy connections to 14 public parks, three playgrounds, two skate parks, a dozen ball fields, two swimming pools, two fishing ponds, a disc golf course, a regular golf course, nine schools, a university, a community center, and two downtown historic districts. An ADA accessible trailhead provides trail access to the trail as well as to a wide overlook area at the top of the levee with park benches and an informational kiosk.
The trail is such a success that an increasing number of residents and tourists are leaving their cars parked and opting to take the trail to where they want to go. Not only does this help facilitate healthier lifestyles, but it also protects the health of the environment and supports a healthy local economy.
Each September, in celebration of National Public Lands Day, the Stroud Region Open Space and Recreation Commission hosts the popular Levee Loop Trail Run and Fun Walk to promote the use of the scenic trail, raise awareness about the benefits of trails and outdoor activities, and help protect and maintain the regional greenway corridor. Participants hit the trail for a trek through leafy suburban pathways, wooded streamsides, and scenic natural vistas. And like all who use the trail, they come full circle to connect with their land, their community, and each other.