12 Beautiful Day Hikes Accessible from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks”
Over the past few years, my appreciation for my Pennsylvania roots has grown immensely. I’ve learned to see the beauty in each season - the pastel blooms in Spring, the canopies of green in Summer, the fiery leaves in Autumn, and the blankets of snow in Winter. This astonishing cycle displays the resilience of our earth and I love paying attention to the changes in vegetation on my weekly hikes.
Being surrounded by nature reduces stress and increases overall feelings of health & happiness. Some scientists claim even greater benefits, but personally, I simply love hiking as it feeds my soul, lifts my spirits, and can turn any bad day around. For living in such a highly populated urban area, I am lucky to have so many varying trails within driving distance.
Here are 12 day hikes that are accessible for those in the Philly area, ranging in difficulty from easy to hard -
Easy
1. Pennypack Ecological Restoration Trust
The Pennypack was my happy place growing up. I could walk out of my house and escape to the forest in minutes. Though the hidden train tracks and overgrown trails that I explored are now more polished, it’s still special to me. There are paved and unpaved trails through golden meadows, woodlands, and wetlands. Park on Creek Road and start wandering… it’s nearly impossible to get lost.
Parking Location on Google Maps
Driving distance from downtown Philadelphia: approximately 45 minutes
2. Stroud Preserve
Located just 5 minutes from downtown West Chester, this 571 acre preserve feels like a countryside dream. Trails run along the calming Brandywine Creek and cut through open grasslands and rolling hills. The Red Trail is a 4 mile loop that incorporates all of these idyllic environments.
Parking Location on Google Maps
Driving distance from downtown Philadelphia: approximately 1 hour
3. Ralph Stover State Park
This state park set within picturesque Bucks County offers a variety of trails, all which are relatively easy. If you start in Ralph Stover, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Tohickon Creek Gorge at the beginning of the hike, so you can keep it short and sweet. If you are up for a little more of a challenge, hike the entire High Rocks Trail which is a 4 mile loop. You can also reverse this hike by starting in the Tohickon Valley Park. If you do this, the epic High Rocks vista will be at your halfway point, so it’s the perfect place to stop for a picnic break.
Parking Location on Google Maps
Driving distance from downtown Philadelphia: approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
4. Valley Forge National Historical Park
If you’re a history buff, head to Valley Forge. George Washington and his Continental Army camped out here during the winter of 1777-1778. Impressively, many of the original structures still remain and they provide tangible links to one of the most defining moments in US history. The 6.6 mile Joseph Plumb Martin Trail connects the key historic and interpretive sites, so that’s a good one for first timers. This trail can get busy, so you can always hike Mount Joy and Mount Misery instead, located in the quieter, Western section of the park.
Parking Location on Google Maps
Distance from downtown Philadelphia: approximately 40 minutes
“And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul” - John Muir
Medium
5. Ricketts Glen State Park
Ricketts Glen is a little farther from Philly but is worth the drive as it boasts over 20 waterfalls. There are multiple trail options, but the well-maintained 7 mile loop is the most popular. Overall, it takes about 3 ½ hours, so it is a fantastic day trip. Note, this trail can be closed during the winter months.
Parking Location on Google Maps
Distance from downtown Philadelphia: approximately 3 hours
6. Wissahickon Valley Park
Wissahickon Valley Park has over 50 miles of hiking and biking trails, so it’s suitable for all ages and levels. I personally seek out more challenging terrains, but there are plenty of easy, paved tracks, like Forbidden Drive. There’s rich history, so keep your eyes open for artifacts and ruins. I love to imagine the Lenape who hunted and fished in the region and mystics like Johann Kelpius who meditated in the infamous Kelpius Cave. Pro tip: Grab a cheesesteak at Dalessandro's afterwards. You deserve it.
Two of my most visited trailheads start on Kitchens Lane and Vicaris Street.
Parking Location on Google Maps for Kitchens Lane
Parking Location on Google Maps for Vicaris Street
Distance from downtown Philadelphia: approximately 20 minutes
7. Tank Hollow Trail
I recently found this trail through AllTrails and I was blown away by the views. Tank Hollow is an out & back 3.5 mile trail located in State Game Lands Number 141, near Jim Thorpe and Lehigh Gorge Park. This region is allocated for hunting and recreation, so wear bright colors if you own them. At first you may think you are at the wrong place, but I promise, keep walking down that gravel road. It’s easy to miss the trail that leads to the overlook, so I suggest using AllTrails to track your journey. The incredible views of the river valley will make you question if you are in Pennsylvania.
Parking Location on Google Maps
Distance from downtown Philadelphia: approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes
8. French Creek State Park
There are over 15 moderate trails in French Creek State Park to choose from, ranging from 2 to 10 miles. French Trail is a well-marked 6.8 mile loop, which covers a large portion of the park. Go for the serene lakes, dense woods, and flowing creeks, but do not expect impressive, open vistas. During the winter, the grounds are ideal for cross-country skiers.
Parking Location on Google Maps
Distance from downtown Philadelphia: approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes
"I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than trees." - Henry David Thoreau
Hard
9. The Pinnacle & Pulpit Rock Loop
The Pinnacle and Pulpit Rock Loop is an iconic day hike on the Appalachian Trail. Lookout points at the Pinnacle and Pulpit Rock have classic PA views of the Lehigh Valley farmland. This trail is almost 9 miles and it’s challenging purely because of the length. Though the elevation change is not drastic, your legs will be burning by the end. Also.. keep an eye out for snakes!
Parking Location on Google Maps
Distance from downtown Philadelphia: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
10. Delaware Water Gap // Mt Tammany & Mt Minsi
Mt Tammany (NJ side) and Mt Minsi (PA side) are two of my favorite trails in the gorgeous Delaware Water Gap. Both options have summits with breathtaking views of the Delaware River. I love the 3.3 mile Mount Tammany: Red Dot and Blue Dot Loop Trail. You get the tough part out of the way in the beginning which is not always the case with hiking.
Parking Location on Google Maps
Distance from downtown Philadelphia: approximately 2 hours
11. Hawk Mountain
Hawk Mountain is an international center for raptor conservation, education, observation and research that has been in operation since 1934. This 2500 acre bird sanctuary charges a $10 fee for non-members, so be prepared to pay. The Hawk Mountain Loop is a little over 5 miles, which provides you with plenty of opportunities to spot hawks, eagles, and falcons. There’s a gradual incline and multiple sections of rock scrambles to tackle, so make sure you have sturdy shoes.
Parking Location on Google Maps
Distance from downtown Philadelphia: approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes
12. Glen Onoko Falls - Temporarily closed
Unfortunately this hike was closed by officials last year. Hopefully they will be able to create a safer trail and will be able to open it back up in the future, as it’s a ton of fun in the summer.
“There is no WiFi in the forest, but you will make a better connection”
Farther Parks for Camping & Hiking
Pine Creek Gorge: known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon
Cherry Springs State Park: known for its stargazing
Hiking Tips
#1 // Be Prepared
As long as you have the right gear, you can hit the trails year round. Wear sturdy shoes like Danner boots for comfort and longevity. Check the weather and prepare accordingly. Pack bug spray in the warmer months and a hat in the cooler ones. Layers are smart. Always bring more water and snacks than you think you’ll need. It’s also a good idea to pack a small first aid kit in case of emergencies. Lastly, especially in PA, look for pesky ticks after your hike.
#2 // Download the AllTrails App
Check out the company called AllTrails. It’s a great tool to discover new hikes. You can search by location, length, and difficulty. They have an app that is particularly handy. The app provides the exact map of the trailhead, even without service, so you can’t get lost.
Activate your senses. Breath in the fresh air. Feel the breeze in your hair. Listen to the birds. Ground yourself. Connect to the natural world. Improve your quality of life and health.
I hope I inspire you to opt outside, escape the pressures of everyday life, and enjoy the beautiful nature that Pennsylvania has to offer!
Do you have any favorite hidden gems that you want to share? Please comment below.