Wissahickon Park Trail System

Hiking at Wissahickon Valley Park offers you a variety of options. The trail system here includes 57 miles of pathways that wind through diverse habitats. You can select a gentle stroll on a gravel road or some rugged roads with steep climbs. There are historical landmarks and points of interest dispersed throughout the park. The road gets plenty of traffic from runners, bikers, hikers, and horseback riders. 

There's a public parking lot at the juncture of Valley Green Road and Forbidden Drive. Jump on the Forbidden Drive Trail to follow the Wissahickon Creek as it transects the park. On this flat, gravel pathway, you can either head south past the Valley Green Inn or north toward the Thomas Mill Covered Bridge. Walk along the gorge and enjoy the scenic views of the water. On the other side of the creek, the Orange Trail also runs parallel with the stream. The route includes the Livery Homestead of Glen Fern, the Fingerspan Bridge, and Devil's Pool. Other park trails head away from the water and through forested land. There are varying levels of difficulty depending on the pathway you choose.

The City of Philadelphia allows you to bring leashed dogs with you to their recreational facilities. Carry bags to collect any waste. If you plan to use the upper trails here, you may need to get a permit. Residents can obtain an annual pass for a suggested $20 donation. 

When you use the Wissahickon Valley Park Trail System, you'll be able to combine exercise with a walk through history. Select a path that takes you down forest roads or to meadows that teem with wildflowers. Look for landmarks like the statue of a Lenape chief, the Great Beech, and goldmine caves. As an Audobon Society designated Important Birding Area, this park hosts five woodpecker species, Carolina wrens, nuthatches, and more.