Best Hiking Trails Around Philadelphia

Best Hiking Spots In and Around Philadelphia

Wissahickon Valley Park

If you're looking for a great hiking spot near Philadelphia, look no further than Wissahickon Valley Park. The park features fifty miles of trails and 1800 acres of wilderness. A nonprofit organization with a mission runs the park to conserve the region's natural environment. Several hiking trails, points of interest, and uncategorized access paths. Here are some of the best places to go hiking in Philadelphia.

You can hike the entire loop in an hour or choose a shorter trail and explore the city's natural wonders. If you're not into long hikes, head to the Wissahickon Environmental Center and explore the meadow. The meadow's trail follows Northwestern Avenue, with an amazing treeline view. Crabapples cling to trees, attracting birds like robins, cedar waxwings, flickers, and blue jays.

Grays Ferry Crescent Trail Park

Located near downtown Philadelphia, Grays Ferry Crescent Trail Park is an urban green space with stunning views of the city skyline and river. This park offers bike paths, fishing areas, and skate parks to get your daily exercise while enjoying the scenery. This park has something for everyone - you can hike or bike to work off your lunch or enjoy the view from the pavilion.

There are several ways to access the trails at Grays Ferry Crescent, including the Schuylkill River, which is part of the "Schuylkill Banks" project. Eventually, this park will connect to the Schuylkill River Trail. For now, this park offers a pier, skateboard facilities, and access to the river. There are also beautiful views of the city skyline and views of The Woodlands Cemetery.

Bartram's Mile Trail

The Bartram's Mile Trail is a relatively new addition to the larger Schuylkill River Trail. This asphalt trail connects the 56th Street Plaza with Bartram's Garden and the Grays Ferry Bridge. Along the way, you'll see the Schuylkill River and beautiful views of the city skyline. You can also link this trail to the adjacent Grays Ferry Crescent Trail, another section of the Schuylkill River Trail.

There are many hiking options in and around Philadelphia. Most neighborhoods are extremely walkable and include forested trails and creeks. Many of these areas are open to the public. This is an excellent way to get outside, get some fresh air, and discover the city's history. Best of all, the trail is free! To see more of this city's natural beauty, visit Bartram's Garden.

John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum

If you're in the mood for a great hike, look no further than the nearby John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, a 1,000-acre preserve maintained by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Hikers will enjoy exploring this refuge's diverse landscapes, including tidal marsh, wetlands, and woodlands. The refuge's education center includes interactive stories and information about the history and habitats of different species found in the area.

This 1,200-acre refuge is home to more than 350 birds and other wildlife species. Hikers will enjoy the natural beauty of this preserve, which is also an Important Mammal Area. The refuge offers canoeing and fishing opportunities during the summer, and kids and families can take advantage of its nature programs. You can catch fish at the sanctuary and learn about native plants and animals during your visit.

Schuylkill Banks

The city of Philadelphia has long been a mecca for urban adventures. However, Southeast Pennsylvania is just as rich in natural beauty, with mountains, rivers, National Parks, and historic sites. A hiking trip near Philadelphia is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. To get a taste of nature without traveling far, check out the Schuylkill Banks.

A great way to start hiking in the area is to head up the Schuylkill River Trail. This nearly two-mile path winds through Philadelphia and is paved on both sides. It is also ADA-compliant, so it's easy for people with disabilities to access the trail. Several scenic overlooks dot the trail. Currently, this trail is one of the most popular in Center City, Philadelphia, attracting more than 19,000 visitors per week. It also won a reader's poll conducted by USA Today.

Share This Article on Social Media

Joy Franklin
Food and Event Writer
My joy is aimed at food and foodie lovers. I enjoy covering trends, issues, and all things Philly.