The annual IRT Trail Loop Historical Walk will be held this Saturday.

The event, which brings out families, couples and individuals, is a leisurely paced walk allowing participants to view more than 23 historical sites. The Ironton Rail-Trail Oversight Commission sponsors the walk. Fall foliage, which is expected to show its radiant crimson and gold colors, is an extra treat for those joining the walk.

The IRT Oversight Commission will also hold a Family Run Walk/Kids trick-or-treat Oct. 26.

The annual autumn IRT Trolley Tour was canceled because of the Hokendauqua-North Catasauqua Bridge construction.

The walk on Saturday begins at 9 a.m. at the Chestnut Street barn at the Whitehall Parkway. Those participating are asked to wear a good pair of sneakers or running shoes. The walk is seven miles and will take three hours, ending approximately at noon.

Buildings, historical sites and landmarks will capture the attention of the walkers. Participants are reminded to bring with them a camera, water and binoculars. Ray Bieak and Bob Abbott of the IRT Oversight Commission will serve as guides and narrators.

Decades ago the IRT was the route the Ironton Railroad took to haul anthracite to Thomas Iron and Coplay Cement. Both businesses contributed to the American Industrial Revolution.

The third annual Trick-or-Treat Trot at the Trail will be held Saturday, Oct. 26. The 5K walk/run begins at the American Club of Coplay, off Cherry Street. The event kicks off at 10:15 a.m. Registration and packet pickup will take place at the club's hoagie shop the morning of the event, between 8:30 and 9:45 a.m.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society will benefit from the race. Its mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkins disease and myeloma and improve the quality of life for those suffering from the diseases.

The course runs along the flat paved trail. The family run/walk is approximately one mile, allowing children to trick or treat along the route. Costumes are optional, but encouraged.

Post-race refreshments will be available. Pre-race massages and a Chinese auction are also part of the program.

Those preregistering by Oct. 8 for the will receive a shirt and a goody bag. Participants in the family fun walk registered by Oct. 8 will receive a trick-or-treat bucket and goodies. Accompanying parents do not have to pay a fee, but will not receive race amenities.

Race day sign-ups do not guarantee goodies. The fun walk is limited to 40 children.