ST. LUKE’S HOSPICE

St. Luke’s Hospice hosts its sixth annual charity bike ride to raise funds and awareness of hospice care while at the same time encouraging exercise.

The event, sanctioned by St. Luke’s “Get Your Tail on the Trail” program, begins 10 a.m. June 5.

Bike enthusiasts at all levels of ability will be able to participate in either the 15-mile or 30-mile trail ride, which begins on the D&L National Heritage Trail, Lehighton Trailhead, 200 N. Main Lane, Lehighton.

The 15-mile option is a one-way ride beginning in Lehighton, heading south and ending with a shuttle ride, provided by Pocono Biking, back to the Lehighton Trainhead. The 30-mile option is a round-trip ride beginning and ending at the trailhead.

Both rides begin south of Jim Thorpe and traverse by riverbeds, the canal towpath and some paved sections. Riders will see museums, the Appalachian Trail crossing, environmental center and views of the Blue Mountains, Appalachian Trail and Lehigh Gap.

There is a cost, which includes a participation kit, shirt, bike loan from Pocono Biking (if needed) and shuttle service, for the 15 mile riders and bikes. All proceeds benefit the St. Luke’s Hospice program.

Registration for the ride is required at www.active.com – search: “St. Luke’s Hospice.” Online registration closes 10 p.m. June 2. Event registration will also be available 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. June 5 at the starting line.

Key event sponsors of the ride include: Cityline Construction Fire and Water Restoration, presenting sponsor; Abington Manor at Morgan Hill, Service Electric Cable TV & Communications, Moravian Hall Square, gold sponsors and Embassy Bank, Fellowship Community, Bailiwick Interior Design and Moravian Village of Bethlehem, silvers sponsors.

St. Luke’s University Health Network and Delaware and Lehigh National Corridor encourage everyone to get active with the “Get Your Tail on the Trail program.” Register at the website www.tailonthetrail.org. The program is free and participants earn prizes by logging the miles they walk, run or bike. The charity bike ride miles count toward miles for the “Get your Tail on the Trail” program.

For more information about Pocono biking, visit the website www.poconobiking.com.