Philadelphia is surrounded by some of the most scenic landscape in the Mid-Atlantic. If you’re yearning to connect more with nature, head to the area’s hilly trails, riverside greenways, or beach paths. As you hike, look for wildlife, inhale the scent of the trees, or watch the sun sparkle on the water. Listed below, are the top family or solo hikes in and around the City of Brotherly Love. A hike on one of these trails will remove you from urban life and envelop you in a world of natural beauty.
Pennypack Park
Pennypack Park boasts 1,300 acres and nine miles of frontage on the lovely Pennypack Creek. Named for the Lenape Indian word meaning ‘slow-moving water’, the park offers a network of paved and unpaved trails. Runners, bikers, hikers, and horseback riders, are sure to ejoy the scenery along the trail. Deep in the heart of the city, rolling hills, lush foliage, and open meadows, make this a top park for families to enjoy the outdoors. Round out your trip and search for arrowheads and explore the historic buildings on site.
Forbidden Drive at Wissahickon Valley Park
Are you a moderate or experienced hiker? You may enjoy the fifty-seven miles of trails that meander through pretty woodlands, a gorge, and bubbling creek in Wissahickon Park. High ridges and several bridge crossings offer lovely views of the area that you are sure to appreciate. Some of the trails are sloping and rugged, while others are flat, gravel paths that are easier for young families to trek. The park’s upper trails are suited for heartier hikers, while the 5.3 point-to-point route on Forbidden Drive is a safe and scenic trail for all skill levels.
Schuylkill River Trail
The Schuylkill River Trail, follows the river of the same name from Center City to Valley Forge. If you are a flatlander, like me, you may be glad to learn that the popular trail is mainly a flat, paved route. An eight-mile stretch (the River Drive Recreational Loop), begins behind the famous Philadelphia Museum of Art and meanders along both sides of the river. From here, the trail crosses the East Falls Bridge and loops back to the museum. The route can become crowded on weekends, but during the warmer months, hikers can enjoy water ice, pretzels, and beverages sold along the trail.
New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail at Cape May Point State Park
Willing to go a little further afield? Jump in the car and travel to the Jersey Shore for a beachside hike at Cape May Point State Park. The 235-acre park is part of the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail and features freshwater ponds, coastal woodlands, sandy dunes, and a lookout point with panaramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Hikers of all ages will find the park’s main trail (mostly wood boardwalk), an easy route. Watch for waterfowl, shorebirds, and even hawks! The historic Cape May Lighthouse towers over the park, and makes a perfect end to your visit to this natural setting. If you’re looking to explore even further, book a round-trip ticket on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, which sets sail year-round between Cape May, NJ and Cape Henlopen in Lewes, DE. Walk or drive off the ferry to explore the bay-side and sea-side beaches, as well as the quaint shops and restaurants in historic, dutch-settled Lewes, the “First Town in the First State.”
References
DCNR: Forbidden Drive
Schuylkill River Greenways: Schuylkill River Trail
State of New Jersey: Cape May Point Park
Photo Credits
Pexels
Ray Rusch