5 Most Scenic Walking Trails In Philadelphia

There are all different ways to work exercise into your daily routine, but walking, hiking or running may be the easiest and most affordable. Philadelphia offers excellent scenic walking trails that are not only challenging at times, they will also add a little beauty into your day. Follow along babbling brooks, canals, over covered bridges and rugged trails along the way. We have many excellent parks in Philadelphia where you can find the most scenic walking trails in the state. We even have the number one urban trail in the nation that you can enjoy.

Manayunk Towpath
Friends of the Manayunk Canal
450 Shurs Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19128
www.manayunkcanal.org

The Manayunk Towpath is within a portion of the Schuylkill River Trail. The Towpath runs for two miles along the canal and the Schuylkill River. Follow the path and learn about the industrial heritage of Manayunk that is explained on plaques along the towpath. It’s the perfect place for jogging, walking, hiking and off-road cycling. You can find rental bikes in Manayunk. Fishing is also allowed along the towpath.

Related: Top Family Hikes In Philadelphia

Forbidden Drive, Fairmount Park
The Friends of the Wissahickon
8708 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 247-0417
www.fow.org

Wissahickon Valley Park Trail (Forbidden Drive) follows Wissahickon creek through the entire length of Fairmount Park. The name Forbidden Drive is derived from cars being banned from using it in the 1920’s. Today, Forbidden Drive is open to equestrians, bicyclists and pedestrians. A permit is needed for equestrians and cyclists. The trail runs 5.5 miles. Two notable stops are the Thomas Mill Road Bridge and the Indian statue.

Valley Forge National Historical Park
1400 N. Outer Line Drive
King of Prussia, PA 19406
(610) 834-1550
www.valleyforge.org

Valley Forge National Historical Park is best known for being the camp base for the Continental Army during the revolutionary war in the winter of 1777 to 1778. The historical park has over six miles of paved path that are used by bicyclists, equestrians and pedestrians on a daily basis. There are over 30 miles of trails, and waterways are a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. It’s the perfect place to explore the history of our nation or enjoy some recreation time with family and friends.

Pennypack Creek Trail
Pennypack Environmental Center
8600 Verree Rd.
Philadelphia, PA 19115
(215) 685-0470
www.pecpa.org

Follow along Pennypack Creek on paved paths or on the more rugged trails you will find on your journey. The 12.4-mile trail will take you through beautiful rolling hills, a few rail trails and picturesque foot bridges. Fall is the perfect season for a long hike through Pennypack Creek Park. Take in the changing leaves of sycamores, maples, oaks and hickories you’ll find along the way. You may even spot a monarch butterfly or two.

Schuylkill River Trail
140 College Drive
Pottstown, PA 19512
(484) 945-0200
www.schuylkillriver.org

The Schuylkill River Trail in Southeastern Pennsylvania spans over 60 miles of finished trail. 26 of those miles run from Philadelphia to Phoenixville, PA. When the trail is completed, it will run a total of 130 miles. The Schuylkill River Trail has been named the “Best Urban Trail in USA” Today’s 10 Best Readers Choice Awards. It is a beautiful outdoor excursion for hikers, bikers, runners strollers and equestrians.

Related: Philadelphia’s Top Guided Tours (Even For Locals)

Christina Thompson is a freelance writer living in Philadelphia. She reports on various topics such as: Social Media, Local Events, Entertainment, Food and Drink and more. Her work can be found at http://firstsendmedia.com/