hiking near philly

Philadelphia is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, but it’s also surrounded by some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely walk in the woods, there’s a trail near Philadelphia that’s perfect for you.

Best Trails for a Day Trip

If you’re looking for a great day hike near Philadelphia, here are a few of our top picks⁚

• Valley Forge National Historical Park⁚ This park is home to over 20 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. You can hike through forests, fields, and along the Schuylkill River. And of course, you can visit the historic Valley Forge encampment, where George Washington and his troops spent the winter of 1777-78.
• Wissahickon Valley Park⁚ This park is located just a few miles from downtown Philadelphia, and it offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels. You can hike along the Wissahickon Creek, through forests, and up to the top of Mount Pleasant. The park is also home to a number of historic sites, including the remains of an old mill and a covered bridge.
• John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum⁚ This refuge is located on the Delaware River, just south of Philadelphia. It offers a variety of hiking trails through forests, meadows, and marshes. You can also see a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and turtles.

These are just a few of the many great hiking trails near Philadelphia. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect trail for your next day trip.

Valley Forge National Historical Park

Valley Forge National Historical Park is a great place to go for a hike near Philadelphia. The park is home to over 20 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. You can hike through forests, fields, and along the Schuylkill River. And of course, you can visit the historic Valley Forge encampment, where George Washington and his troops spent the winter of 1777-78.

Here are a few of the most popular hiking trails in Valley Forge National Historical Park⁚

• Washington’s Headquarters Trail⁚ This 1.5-mile loop trail takes you past the site of George Washington’s headquarters during the winter of 1777-78. The trail is easy to follow and offers a great overview of the park.
• Von Steuben Trail⁚ This 2.5-mile loop trail follows the route that General Von Steuben used to train the Continental Army at Valley Forge. The trail is more challenging than the Washington’s Headquarters Trail, but it offers beautiful views of the park.
• Mount Joy Trail⁚ This 3.5-mile loop trail takes you to the top of Mount Joy, the highest point in Valley Forge National Historical Park. The trail is challenging, but it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

No matter what your fitness level or interests, you’re sure to find a great hiking trail at Valley Forge National Historical Park.

Wissahickon Valley Park

Wissahickon Valley Park is another great place to go for a hike near Philadelphia. The park is home to over 50 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. You can hike through forests, fields, and along the Wissahickon Creek. And you can even visit the historic Valley Green Inn, which was built in 1740.

Here are a few of the most popular hiking trails in Wissahickon Valley Park⁚

• Forbidden Drive⁚ This 6-mile paved trail follows the Wissahickon Creek through the heart of the park. The trail is relatively flat and easy to follow, making it a great option for families with young children or for those looking for a leisurely walk.
• Cresheim Trail⁚ This 2.5-mile loop trail takes you through a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and wetlands. The trail is moderately challenging, but it offers beautiful views of the park.
• Pulpit Rock Trail⁚ This 1-mile loop trail takes you to the top of Pulpit Rock, which offers stunning views of the Wissahickon Valley. The trail is challenging, but it’s worth the effort for the views.

No matter what your fitness level or interests, you’re sure to find a great hiking trail at Wissahickon Valley Park.

Tips for Planning Your Hike

Here are a few tips to help you plan your hike near Philadelphia⁚

• Choose the right trail⁚ There are many different hiking trails near Philadelphia, so it’s important to choose one that’s right for your fitness level and interests. If you’re not sure which trail to choose, check out the resources listed below.
• Pack for the weather⁚ The weather in Philadelphia can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack for all types of conditions. Be sure to bring layers of clothing, rain gear, and sunscreen.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks⁚ Hiking can be dehydrating, so it’s important to bring plenty of water with you. You should also bring some snacks to keep your energy levels up.
• Let someone know where you’re going⁚ Before you go on your hike, be sure to let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back. This is especially important if you’re hiking alone.
• Be aware of your surroundings⁚ When you’re hiking, be sure to be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the trail markers and stay on the trail. Be aware of wildlife and other hazards;

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your hike is safe and enjoyable.

Resources for finding hiking trails near Philadelphia⁚

• Visit Philadelphia
• PA Hikes
• AllTrails

Choose the right trail

There are many different hiking trails near Philadelphia, so it’s important to choose one that’s right for your fitness level and interests. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a trail⁚

• Distance⁚ How long do you want to hike? Trails range in length from short loops to long day hikes.
• Difficulty⁚ Trails are rated on a scale from easy to difficult. Choose a trail that is appropriate for your fitness level.
• Terrain⁚ Some trails are relatively flat, while others have steep climbs and descents. Consider your fitness level and choose a trail with terrain that you can handle.
• Scenery⁚ What type of scenery do you want to see? Some trails offer views of forests, mountains, lakes, or rivers.
• Amenities⁚ Some trails have amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and water fountains. Consider what amenities are important to you when choosing a trail.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your choices. Here are a few of the most popular hiking trails near Philadelphia⁚

• Valley Forge National Historical Park⁚ This park offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy loops to challenging climbs. The trails pass by historic sites, such as the Washington Monument and the Muhlenberg Brigade Huts.
• Wissahickon Valley Park⁚ This park is home to over 50 miles of hiking trails. The trails wind through forests, along streams, and past waterfalls. Wissahickon Valley Park is a great place to hike for all levels of fitness.
• John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum⁚ This refuge is home to a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows. The trails at Tinicum are relatively flat and easy to hike, making them a good choice for families with young children.

These are just a few of the many great hiking trails near Philadelphia. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect trail for your next adventure.