The Bake Oven Knob hike on the Appalachian Trail is a great short trail to an overlook in Germansville, PA.
This trail is perfect for beginners or if you are hiking with young kids since it’s only .4 miles to the overlook and it’s on the easy side of moderate. You can also lengthen the hike by including a stop at Bears Rock and Knife’s Edge.
This is one of our favorite short hikes because you get gorgeous views without too much effort. We even visited after a snowfall and had no difficulty on the trail.
The guide below shares everything you need to know before you head out to Bake Oven Knob, including where to park and what’s available nearby.
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Prepare For Your Hike to Bake Oven Knob
Bake Oven Knob Trail Parking
The parking lot for the Bake Oven Knob trail is on Bake Oven Road in Germansville, PA. there are two large lots on either side of the road. You’ll want to park in the eastern lot for the easiest access to the Bake Oven Knob trailhead.
As large as the lot is, this is a very popular section of the Appalachian Trail for day hikers, so it may be difficult to find parking on weekends and holidays. It’s also the lot hikers use to get to Bear Rocks and Knife’s Edge.
Good to know: Bake Oven Road is a dirt road that is not maintainted during the winter. Heavy snowfall may cause road closures.
Amenities at Bake Oven Knob
There are no toilets at Bake Oven Knob.
Take Precautions
The trail to Bake Oven Knob goes through State Game Lands #217, where deer hunting occurs. It’s best practice to wear bright orange (like this hat) when hiking through state game lands during hunting season.
Be a Responsible Visitor
Remember, as you visit this trail, to respect nature. Stay on established paths, pack out your trash (including food waste), and leave what you find behind.
The more popular these destinations become, the more we need to be diligent about keeping our parks and lands clean and safe for all. You can learn more here.
The Bake Oven Knob Trail
| Trail Location: | Trailhead for Bake Oven Knob is off the northeast parking area on Bake Oven Rd (40.74529898815804, -75.73810590552718) |
| Trail Length: | .4 miles to overlook (.8 miles total) |
| Trail Difficulty: | Easy side moderate. Slight incline and a rocky trail. The lookout is rocky, with large boulders to climb on. |
| Trail Type: | Out and back |
| Elevation Gain: | 150 feet |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes |
Trailhead
The trailhead to Bake Oven Knob is at the southeast corner of the parking lot. Follow the white blazes along the Appalachian Trail.
What to Expect Along the Trail
The trail to Bake Oven Knob isn’t difficult. It could be considered easy by avid hikers. Occasional hikers might rate it on the easy side of moderate due to the rocky terrain. There is a slight elevation gain of 150 feet, with most of that gain occurring just before reaching the overlook.
One of the fun things to look for on the Appalachian Trail is the county markers. You’ll find one on the way to Bake Oven Knob.
The Bake Oven Knob Overlook
The Bake Oven Knob overlook isn’t signed, but you’ll know it when you see it. Less than a half-mile from the parking lot, you’ll encounter a large open space on your right side (looking south). The overlook is a large outcropping with several large rocks. Unfortunately, it has become a popular spot for graffiti. But you can look past that to enjoy the view of the Lehigh Valley.
Alternate Hike to Bake Oven Knob on the Appalachian Trail
If you’d like a longer hike to the Bake Oven Knob overlook, you can always start on the Ashfield Road entrance to the east of the overlook. It’s about 2.8 miles to the overlook (5.6 miles out and back), with an elevation gain of about 270 feet. You’ll pass the Bake Oven Knob shelter along the way.
Other Hikes Near Bake Oven Knob
Bears Rock & Knife’s Edge
You can make your hike longer by adding on the trail to Bears Rock and Knife’s Edge. After turning around and heading back to the parking area, cross over Bake Oven Road and get back on the Appalachian Trail. Bears Rock is about 1.5 miles from the parking lot. Knife’s Edge is another half-mile. The trails to each overlook are on the easy side of moderate, but the overlooks themselves could present a challenge, requiring rock scrambles.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary Trail
About 30 minutes from Bake Oven Knob is Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. The multiple trails and combinations range from easy to difficult. It’s a beautiful place to hike, but keep in mind there is an entrance fee, and dogs are not allowed on their trails.
Pinnacle and Pulplit Loop
Another popular section of the Appalachian Trail, the Pinnacle and Pulpit Rock loop, is about 9 miles, offering rocky terrain and gorgeous views. If you enjoyed Bake Oven Knob but want more of a challenge, this is a great hike for you!
Wrapping Up the Bake Oven Knob Hike
The hike to Bake Oven Knob is a fun, short hike to a beautiful overlook. It’s a great way to introduce hiking to kids. And it’s perfect for the occasional hiker who loves a good view without having to hike too far. It’s also a great hike any time of the year. We hiked it in early March after a snowfall and had no issues.
Since the hike is so short, you’ll want to plan other activities in the area, like hiking to Bear Rock or Knife’s Edge, snow tubing at Blue Mountain in the winter, or heading into Jim Thorpe, which is a short drive away.
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