Top 20 Hiking Trails in Philadelphia
Hiking Trails in Philadelphia offer a chance to explore the city's natural beauty. Philadelphia is home to numerous parks and green spaces with scenic trails for hikers of all levels. Some of the top hiking spots in Philadelphia include Wissahickon Valley Park, Pennypack Park, East Fairmount Park, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, and Schuylkill Banks. Each trail provides a unique experience, from the picturesque Schuylkill River to the lush forests of Wissahickon Valley Park. Get ready to discover the beauty of Philadelphia's great outdoors!
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- 1. Wissahickon Valley Park
- 2. Schuylkill River Trail
- 3. Pennypack Park
- 4. Schuylkill River Trail
- 5. Andorra Meadow
- 6. John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum
- 7. Tacony Creek Park
- 8. Bartram's Mile Trail
- 9. Wissahickon Creek Trailhead
- 10. Bells Mill Road West Trailhead
- 11. Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk
- 12. East Fairmount Park
- 13. Mt. Airy Trail Entrance
- 14. Manayunk Bridge Trail
- 15. Grays Ferry Crescent Trail Park
- 16. Benjamin Rush State Park
- 17. Vicaris St Trailhead
- 18. Grays Ferry Crescent
- 19. White Trail Entrance
- 20. Schuylkill Banks
1. Wissahickon Valley Park
Historic covered bridge and waterfall
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The recreation area offers over 50 miles of hiking trails, leading visitors through a diverse landscape of dense forests, open meadows, and shaded creeks. One notable trail is an 8.5-mile hike within Philadelphia's city limits, which explores the serene parts of Wissahickon Gorge, its meadows, and historic Valley Green. This particular hike also features a covered bridge and a small waterfall, adding to the area's natural beauty.
In the heart of Philadelphia, the recreation area provides a perfect escape from urban life with its numerous trails. The 8.5-mile hike in Wissahickon Gorge is a prime example, showcasing the area's quieter, more peaceful spots. This trail takes hikers through lush meadows and the historic Valley Green, with picturesque stops at a covered bridge and a charming waterfall.
The recreation area offers over 50 miles of hiking trails, leading visitors through a diverse landscape of dense forests, open meadows, and shaded creeks. One notable trail is an 8.5-mile hike within Philadelphia's city limits, which explores the serene parts of Wissahickon Gorge, its meadows, and historic Valley Green. This particular hike also features a covered bridge and a small waterfall, adding to the area's natural beauty.
In the heart of Philadelphia, the recreation area provides a perfect escape from urban life with its numerous trails. The 8.5-mile hike in Wissahickon Gorge is a prime example, showcasing the area's quieter, more peaceful spots. This trail takes hikers through lush meadows and the historic Valley Green, with picturesque stops at a covered bridge and a charming waterfall.
2. Schuylkill River Trail
Historic landmarks, accessible trail
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The Schuylkill River Trail is a perfect spot for a hike, offering beautiful views of the river and city skyline. The trail is well-maintained, making it suitable for a leisurely walk or a more intense hike. One of the standout features of the trail is its accessibility, as it is mostly flat and can be enjoyed by people of all fitness levels.
In addition to its scenic beauty and accessibility, the Schuylkill River Trail also provides an educational experience. Historical markers are located throughout the trail, allowing hikers to learn about the area's history as they walk. The combination of exercise, natural beauty, and historical education makes the Schuylkill River Trail a well-rounded hiking destination.
The Schuylkill River Trail is a perfect spot for a hike, offering beautiful views of the river and city skyline. The trail is well-maintained, making it suitable for a leisurely walk or a more intense hike. One of the standout features of the trail is its accessibility, as it is mostly flat and can be enjoyed by people of all fitness levels.
In addition to its scenic beauty and accessibility, the Schuylkill River Trail also provides an educational experience. Historical markers are located throughout the trail, allowing hikers to learn about the area's history as they walk. The combination of exercise, natural beauty, and historical education makes the Schuylkill River Trail a well-rounded hiking destination.
3. Pennypack Park
Large urban park with various activities
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Pennypack Park in Philadelphia offers over nine miles of paved trails and even more unpaved trails along Pennypack Creek in Montgomery County. The scenic trail features picnic areas, paths leading to the water, and historic bridges. One popular hiking trail in Pennypack Park, according to AllTrails.com users, is the Pine Rd to Route 1 via Pennypack Trail, which has received a 4.6 star rating from 829 reviews. This specific trail is 8.4 mi long and has an elevation gain of 331 ft.
AllTrails.com users rate the Pine Rd to Route 1 via Pennypack Trail highly for its scenic views and challenging terrain. This 8.4 mi long trail features an elevation gain of 331 ft, making it a popular choice for experienced hikers. The trail passes through picturesque landscapes, including the serene Pennypack Creek, and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. With a 4.6 star rating from 829 reviews, it's no wonder this trail is a top pick among hikers in Pennypack Park.
Pennypack Park in Philadelphia offers over nine miles of paved trails and even more unpaved trails along Pennypack Creek in Montgomery County. The scenic trail features picnic areas, paths leading to the water, and historic bridges. One popular hiking trail in Pennypack Park, according to AllTrails.com users, is the Pine Rd to Route 1 via Pennypack Trail, which has received a 4.6 star rating from 829 reviews. This specific trail is 8.4 mi long and has an elevation gain of 331 ft.
AllTrails.com users rate the Pine Rd to Route 1 via Pennypack Trail highly for its scenic views and challenging terrain. This 8.4 mi long trail features an elevation gain of 331 ft, making it a popular choice for experienced hikers. The trail passes through picturesque landscapes, including the serene Pennypack Creek, and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. With a 4.6 star rating from 829 reviews, it's no wonder this trail is a top pick among hikers in Pennypack Park.
4. Schuylkill River Trail
Historic landmarks and public art
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The bike ride to Valley Forge is a enjoyable experience, made easier by the paved trail and great conditions. The day was sunny and hot, but the trail and frequent bathrooms along the way made it manageable. The trail offers beautiful views, making it an excellent choice for bikers.
The trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate, with a smooth and paved surface perfect for biking. The route provides a great escape from the city, offering beautiful views and a comfortable biking experience. Overall, the trail is excellent for bikers of all levels and is a great choice for a sunny day out.
The bike ride to Valley Forge is a enjoyable experience, made easier by the paved trail and great conditions. The day was sunny and hot, but the trail and frequent bathrooms along the way made it manageable. The trail offers beautiful views, making it an excellent choice for bikers.
The trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate, with a smooth and paved surface perfect for biking. The route provides a great escape from the city, offering beautiful views and a comfortable biking experience. Overall, the trail is excellent for bikers of all levels and is a great choice for a sunny day out.
5. Andorra Meadow
Access to Schuylkill River Trail
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Wissahickon is a great place for a hike in the early afternoon. There is plenty of parking, and the area is not crowded, making for a peaceful experience. Bathrooms are available, which is a convenient amenity to have while on a hike.
The trails at Wissahickon are well-maintained and shaded, providing a comfortable hiking experience. There are many options for exploration, with trails that cater to different skill levels. The meadow at the top of the hike is a beautiful feature, although it doesn't have much shade. Overall, Wissahickon is an awesome spot to enjoy nature and take in some beautiful views.
Wissahickon is a great place for a hike in the early afternoon. There is plenty of parking, and the area is not crowded, making for a peaceful experience. Bathrooms are available, which is a convenient amenity to have while on a hike.
The trails at Wissahickon are well-maintained and shaded, providing a comfortable hiking experience. There are many options for exploration, with trails that cater to different skill levels. The meadow at the top of the hike is a beautiful feature, although it doesn't have much shade. Overall, Wissahickon is an awesome spot to enjoy nature and take in some beautiful views.
6. John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum
Largest urban refuge in the U.S.
Discover the beauty of the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. With a meticulously maintained boardwalk, you can easily access breathtaking views and a diverse range of bird species. Take a leisurely hike and immerse yourself in nature, where you may even catch a glimpse of soaring eagles and various other bird species too numerous to mention.
My friends and I recently spent a delightful day exploring this park's wonders. We ventured along a picturesque trail, taking in the splendor of nature at its finest. The trail led us to encounters with eagles, as well as a multitude of bird species, too many to name, making for an unforgettable experience. Don't miss out on this nearby gem, just 6.5 miles from Philadelphia!
My friends and I recently spent a delightful day exploring this park's wonders. We ventured along a picturesque trail, taking in the splendor of nature at its finest. The trail led us to encounters with eagles, as well as a multitude of bird species, too many to name, making for an unforgettable experience. Don't miss out on this nearby gem, just 6.5 miles from Philadelphia!
7. Tacony Creek Park
Free admission, offers environmental education programs
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The urban trail is marred by litter, including water bottles, plastic bags, coffee cups, tires, and broken glass, as well as graffiti and a junkyard with a menacing dog. Despite the unsavory elements, the trail offers a scenic experience a few miles in, with ups and downs and some circle trails for a more challenging hike. However, even as a woman with a capable dog, I felt hesitant to walk the trail alone due to the groups of young men on dirt bikes and the general lack of safety.
The first part of the trail is marred by trash, particularly near roads, and the presence of young men speeding by on dirt bikes. As a woman, I felt uncomfortable walking the trail alone despite my dog's ability to scare off strangers. However, once I ventured further into the trail, I found it to be quite pretty, with varying terrain and additional circle trails for a more intense hiking experience. Unfortunately, the unpleasant elements near the beginning of the trail dampened my overall experience and enjoyment of the hike.
The urban trail is marred by litter, including water bottles, plastic bags, coffee cups, tires, and broken glass, as well as graffiti and a junkyard with a menacing dog. Despite the unsavory elements, the trail offers a scenic experience a few miles in, with ups and downs and some circle trails for a more challenging hike. However, even as a woman with a capable dog, I felt hesitant to walk the trail alone due to the groups of young men on dirt bikes and the general lack of safety.
The first part of the trail is marred by trash, particularly near roads, and the presence of young men speeding by on dirt bikes. As a woman, I felt uncomfortable walking the trail alone despite my dog's ability to scare off strangers. However, once I ventured further into the trail, I found it to be quite pretty, with varying terrain and additional circle trails for a more intense hiking experience. Unfortunately, the unpleasant elements near the beginning of the trail dampened my overall experience and enjoyment of the hike.
8. Bartram's Mile Trail
Accessible for all skill levels
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The Bartram's Mile Trail in Philadelphia is a popular spot for hiking and walking, known for its beautiful views and peaceful atmosphere. The trail is generally considered an easy route and takes an average of 44 minutes to complete. It is 1.1 miles long and runs along the Schuylkill River, providing stunning views of the city skyline. The trail is also home to public art installations and outlook areas, as well as vibrant flowers that add to the overall beauty of the trail.
Despite its popularity, it is still possible to find solitude on the Bartram's Mile Trail during quieter times of the day. In addition to its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, the trail is also a great place for exercise and enjoying the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a place to go for a walk, run, or bike ride, the Bartram's Mile Trail has something for everyone. With its Instagram-worthy views and enjoyable atmosphere, it's no wonder why this trail is a popular destination for people in the Philadelphia area.
The Bartram's Mile Trail in Philadelphia is a popular spot for hiking and walking, known for its beautiful views and peaceful atmosphere. The trail is generally considered an easy route and takes an average of 44 minutes to complete. It is 1.1 miles long and runs along the Schuylkill River, providing stunning views of the city skyline. The trail is also home to public art installations and outlook areas, as well as vibrant flowers that add to the overall beauty of the trail.
Despite its popularity, it is still possible to find solitude on the Bartram's Mile Trail during quieter times of the day. In addition to its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, the trail is also a great place for exercise and enjoying the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a place to go for a walk, run, or bike ride, the Bartram's Mile Trail has something for everyone. With its Instagram-worthy views and enjoyable atmosphere, it's no wonder why this trail is a popular destination for people in the Philadelphia area.
9. Wissahickon Creek Trailhead
Dog-friendly trail
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The Wissahickon Creek Gorge Loop via Forbidden Drive is a well-known trail in the area, stretching 9.4 miles and rated as easy. It takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes to complete, making it a popular choice for hikers looking for a moderate challenge.
The Wissahickon Creek Gorge Loop via Forbidden Drive is a well-known trail in the area, stretching 9.4 miles and rated as easy. It takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes to complete, making it a popular choice for hikers looking for a moderate challenge.
10. Bells Mill Road West Trailhead
11. Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk
Bike-friendly, accessible for all abilities
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The bike route to Center City is a peaceful and scenic path to take, offering a serene escape for cyclists. A notable section of this route is the 2,000-feet boardwalk that lines the Schuylkill River. This boardwalk provides a stunning setting for runners, with the river's tranquil waters on one side and the city's skyline on the other. The natural beauty and urban landscape combine to create a picturesque running experience, drawing runners back to this trail time and again.
Undoubtedly, the Schuylkill River boardwalk is a must-do for runners seeking a scenic route. The trail's unique blend of nature and cityscape creates a memorable backdrop, making it an ideal spot for workout or leisurely stroll. Whether you're a serious runner or simply enjoy a walk in beautiful surroundings, the Schuylkill River boardwalk promises a rewarding experience.
The bike route to Center City is a peaceful and scenic path to take, offering a serene escape for cyclists. A notable section of this route is the 2,000-feet boardwalk that lines the Schuylkill River. This boardwalk provides a stunning setting for runners, with the river's tranquil waters on one side and the city's skyline on the other. The natural beauty and urban landscape combine to create a picturesque running experience, drawing runners back to this trail time and again.
Undoubtedly, the Schuylkill River boardwalk is a must-do for runners seeking a scenic route. The trail's unique blend of nature and cityscape creates a memorable backdrop, making it an ideal spot for workout or leisurely stroll. Whether you're a serious runner or simply enjoy a walk in beautiful surroundings, the Schuylkill River boardwalk promises a rewarding experience.
12. East Fairmount Park
Philadelphia's largest park
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Boxer’s Trail, located in East Fairmount Park, is a 3.8-mile trail that offers easy, flat hiking perfect for all skill levels. The trail is also dog-friendly, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry friends.
East Fairmount Park, spanning 650 acres along the Schuylkill River, is a beautiful and historic park that provides a range of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, biking, jogging, walking, and birdwatching, among other recreational pursuits, in this scenic and expansive green space.
Boxer’s Trail, located in East Fairmount Park, is a 3.8-mile trail that offers easy, flat hiking perfect for all skill levels. The trail is also dog-friendly, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry friends.
East Fairmount Park, spanning 650 acres along the Schuylkill River, is a beautiful and historic park that provides a range of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, biking, jogging, walking, and birdwatching, among other recreational pursuits, in this scenic and expansive green space.
13. Mt. Airy Trail Entrance
14. Manayunk Bridge Trail
15. Grays Ferry Crescent Trail Park
Historic location with public art installations
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The Gray's Ferry Circuit is a popular hiking trail with a rating of 3.7 stars based on 38 reviews, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail is 1.4 miles long and has an elevation gain of 36 feet, making it a relatively easy hike suitable for families and hikers of all skill levels.
The Grays Ferry Crescent Trail is a modern park that forms part of the larger Schuylkill River Trail. It features a skate park, fishing access, and a pier, providing visitors with a range of activities to enjoy. The trail itself is 0.75 miles long and offers stunning views of the city skyline, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with a view.
The Gray's Ferry Circuit is a popular hiking trail with a rating of 3.7 stars based on 38 reviews, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail is 1.4 miles long and has an elevation gain of 36 feet, making it a relatively easy hike suitable for families and hikers of all skill levels.
The Grays Ferry Crescent Trail is a modern park that forms part of the larger Schuylkill River Trail. It features a skate park, fishing access, and a pier, providing visitors with a range of activities to enjoy. The trail itself is 0.75 miles long and offers stunning views of the city skyline, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with a view.
16. Benjamin Rush State Park
Rich in history and nature
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The park features well-maintained trails, with some areas experiencing grass or weed growth. The trails are mostly exposed to direct sunlight, but there are some areas shaded by tree cover. Visitors to the park can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including rabbits and birds.
The park is quiet, with the exception of model plane flying days. The trails are nicely laid out, making for great conditions for walking or running. The park is a great place to connect with nature and enjoy some peace and quiet. However, those who are sensitive to sunlight may want to plan their visit for a time when the sun is less intense.
The park features well-maintained trails, with some areas experiencing grass or weed growth. The trails are mostly exposed to direct sunlight, but there are some areas shaded by tree cover. Visitors to the park can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including rabbits and birds.
The park is quiet, with the exception of model plane flying days. The trails are nicely laid out, making for great conditions for walking or running. The park is a great place to connect with nature and enjoy some peace and quiet. However, those who are sensitive to sunlight may want to plan their visit for a time when the sun is less intense.
17. Vicaris St Trailhead
18. Grays Ferry Crescent
19. White Trail Entrance
20. Schuylkill Banks
Historic location, public art installations
Schuylkill Banks: An Urban Oasis Uncover a hidden gem nestled on downtown's west side: Schuylkill Banks. Ideal for runners, walkers, and cyclists, this scenic trail spans approx. 1.8 miles, stretching from Locust Street to the South Street Bridge. Experience the thrill of running over the river, taking in stunning views of the city skyline. For the more adventurous, connect to the extensive Schuylkill River Trail.
Schuylkill Banks is my go-to place for rejuvenation. With its well-maintained paths, it's perfect for jogging, walking, or cycling. The banks are not just for exercise; it's also a hotspot for yoga, photography, and picnics. Once completed in 2020, it promises to be even better. Don't miss out on experiencing this urban oasis!
Schuylkill Banks is my go-to place for rejuvenation. With its well-maintained paths, it's perfect for jogging, walking, or cycling. The banks are not just for exercise; it's also a hotspot for yoga, photography, and picnics. Once completed in 2020, it promises to be even better. Don't miss out on experiencing this urban oasis!