What is the Lehigh Valley's largest lake?

Do you know what the Lehigh Valley's largest lake is? Have you ever heard of Leaser Lake? Neither had we, until we spent a fantastic afternoon there. Located in the northwest section of the Valley, Leaser Lake is a great place for a quiet canoe ride, family picnic or catching minnows with the kids.

Paddling on Leaser Lake

A couple of weeks ago, I had seen a sign near New Smithville that mentioned paddle boats and Leaser Lake. So, when we were trying to find something to do with the kids over the 4th of July holiday, we decided to Google it and find out more.

Several years ago, Leaser Lake was drained so the dam could be repaired. Earlier this year, the lake reopened for the first time in three years for trout season. This is also the first season for Leaser Lake Boats, Bikes & Bait (LLBBB), which provide rentals seven days a week to outdoor adventurers.

WHAT'S NEW AT LEASER LAKE?

LLBBB is located at 8912 Levans Road in Kempton just behind Wanamakers General Store (which if you haven't done so already, be sure to stop in. Their sandwiches are delish!). You'll want to first visit LLBBB to pick out your rental and then head to the lake.

Rental options include kayaks (single or tandem), paddle boards, canoes, row boats, fishing rods and bikes. Prices range from $5-$10 per hour for bikes and $20-25 per hour for boats. My husband and I rented a canoe and purchased lunches from Wanamakers, and spent quality time with our girls ... all for less than $50!

Coming later this summer via LLBBB ... yoga on paddle boards while on the lake! That sounds both awesome and slightly dangerous at the same time. 

WHAT TO BRING TO LEASER LAKE

I'd recommend bringing a blanket and/or chairs to sit on if you plan to picnic; there are a few picnic tables, but we find it easier for our kids to have a place to sit on the ground, too. Water shoes, hats and sunglasses, and sunblock are a definite. It can be hot out on the boat with the sun reflecting off the water.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

There is no swimming at Leaser Lake and there's not much of a beach. It's simply a quiet place, away from all the hubbub of the busy community pools and more commercial lakes, where you can enjoy nature's beauty.

Connect with Leaser Lake Boats, Bikes & Bait on Facebook or visit their website for more information. Interested in learning more about Leaser Lake's history? Check out the Heritage Foundation site.

Great Playgrounds Abound in the Lehigh Valley

Spring is finally springing here in the Valley! And, it's about time. I don't know about you, but it feels good not to be cooped up in the house anymore. As a mom of two little ones, going to the playground is a welcomed treat, as well as great exercise and bonding time. With so many great playgrounds peppered across the Lehigh Valley, sometimes it's hard to choose which one to go to.

SOME OF OUR FAVORITE PLACES TO PLAY

• Lone Lane Park in Upper Macungie: This is a great place to play and one of our favorites. Lone Lane has soccer and baseball fields, basketball courts, a huge playground and a running / walking path through the woods.

• Cedar Beach Playground in Allentown: Every time we've been here, the playground is very crowded, as is the parking lot. However, my 5-year-old loves it! There is a lot to slide, climb and jump on, and the playground is right next to a walking path. To wind down after some serious playing, we like to take the girls to the nearby lake to see the ducks.

  

  Fall 2012 at Cedar Beach

• Bob Rodale Fitness Park in Trexlertown: While there is no playground, there is a huge ... no HUGE ... sandbox for the kids to play in. If you haven't been here before, it's worth going to. This is also a great park for family walks, jogging and bike riding.

• Macungie Memorial Park in Downtown Macungie: We used to live within walking distance of this great playground. Not only can the kids burn off some serious energy, the train runs by periodically for some added interest.

Here are some additional playground ideas from The Morning Call. 

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PLAYGROUND FUN

Here's a little insight: I get nervous when I take my kids to crowded places. Therefore,  I dress them in bright colors when we go to the big playgrounds. This helps me easily spot them while they are running around like crazy banshees or playing hide-n-seek on the equipment with other kids. Other ideas include:

1. Dressing in layers. It's still a little chilly out, so I have been dressing the kids in layers. This way, as they start to sweat, we can peel off layers. 
2. Bringing water bottles. I've seen so many parents without water for their red-faced kids that have just ran non-stop for 30 minutes. It's important for the little ones to stay hydrated ... pack a water bottle and remind them to take water breaks. 
3. Giving a 10-minute warning. Before you're ready to pack everyone back up in the mini-van, let them know the end is near. I've seen plenty of children pitch royal fits when mom or dad says, "Let's go now!" Kids need a little heads up when the fun's about to end; try to avoid being so abrupt with your little people. 

Climbing high at Lone Lane Park

WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO PLAY?

What are some of your kids' favorite playgrounds? Do you have any recommendations for our readers? 

Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.