Finally, the weather starts to cool down; there’s pumpkin spice everything; and we can break out cute scarves and hats. But the best part? The FOLIAGE. All the shades of the red, orange and yellow leaves with their different variations make fall one of the most beautiful seasons. If you wouldn’t think there is a lot of green space in and around Philly to see the trees, think again. In fact, here are a few places nearby we’ve found for hikes, bike and taking the little tikes outdoors!
Wissahickon Valley Park (Forbidden Drive)
Trails: 5.5 miles, Northwest Philly
This is the perfect place to go to escape the hustle and the bustle of the city without venturing too far. Only 5 miles out of the city, you’ll feel as if you’re completely immersed in the country. It’s the perfect getaway on a cool fall day and gives you the best of both worlds. If you dare, go off-trail into the 50 miles of terrain that go through Wissahickon Park.
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge and Tinicum
Trails: 10 miles, South Philly
This is a hidden gem that many Philadelphians may not know about with some history behind it. Established in 1972, this marsh land is America’s first urban wild refuge. It houses many different types of birds and other animals you can see via hiking on the trails or kayaking down Darby Creek. Located near the stadiums, you’d be surprised how peaceful, beautiful, and quiet it is.
Cobbs Creek Trail
Trail: 11.8 miles, Southwest Philly
The Cobbs Creek Parkway in Fairmount Park has paved and unpaved trails that are lined by trees, which are perfect for seeing the fall foliage. It also runs through historical places like Mount Moriah Cemetery, one of the largest abandoned cemetery in the U.S. and also has paths to run on.
If you want to escape a little further away from the city, there are plenty of places to go. Head north of Philadelphia toward the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos to see tons of trails and foliage.
Lake Nockamixon
Trails: 3 miles, 30 miles north of the city (Quakertown)
Surrounding this big gorgeous lake are plenty of leisurely trails that are a great way to see the fall foliage. Besides the 3 miles of hiking trails, there are 2.8 miles of biking trail and 20 miles equestrian trails. The great thing about these trails is that they’re mostly flat. This make it easy for outdoor activities with younger and older family members. There’s also the option to take your canoe out onto the lake and enjoy the foliage from there!
Perkiomen Trail
Trail: 20 miles, 35 miles northwest of the city
This trail begins at Green Lane Park and connects to the Schuylkill River Trail, so if you are looking for a nice long bike ride to enjoy the scenery, this is the perfect challenge. And talk about BEAUTIFUL.
Glen Onoko
Trail: 4.1 miles, 70 miles north of the city (Jim Thorpe)
As you go north towards the Poconos, there are tons of mountains to choose from, and Glen Onoko is a favorite. With a steep incline, this hike is definitely a challenge. But if you make it to the top, you are greeted by an amazing waterfall! You can even climb to the top of that and see the view that is waiting for you. There’s no better way to see the changing of seasons than from the top of a mountain.
Bear Creek
Trails: 7 miles, 52 miles north of city (Macungie)
Head to this quaint little town and you will find Bear Creek. While it’s a ski resort in the winter, it transform to a recreational mecca during the summer and fall. Choose from 23 trails for great hiking and mountain biking, as well as Frisbee golf. The lodge and the restaurant that are open all year round, and they always have great events.
On the other side of the Delaware River lie many fantastic trails in New Jersey as well.
Pemberton Rail Trail
Trail: 3 miles, 25 miles east of the city (Pemberton)
This now-abandoned rail corridor has been transformed into a historic trail that’s perfect for a run. Starting at Hanover Street, the former railroad station has been restored into a quaint museum with old train cars and railroad artifacts.
Delaware River Heritage Trail
Trail: Proposed 50 miles, 39 miles east (Hamilton Township)
Soon, you will be able to take this trail through 24 towns in NJ and PA. Still in its construction phase, It may still be growing, but it is open to the public and can be used!
