Free guide: 25 hikes near Montreal
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Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trails, Philadelphia & The Countryside tree outdoor grass forest wood landscape wooded plant dry nature area land

Hiking near Philadelphia

Pick your drive. Save time for the trail.

75 trails within 2 hr of Philadelphia by car. Compare the drive, the walking time and the level to choose your next outing.

Photo : Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trails

Starting from: Philadelphia city centre
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Maximum one-way drive
With my dog

Drive times are estimates (≈) from the city centre, as the crow flies. Walking time comes from the trail page when it has one; a walking filter hides trails without a duration.

Hiking ideas near Philadelphia

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Blue Mountain trail - hiking in Pocono Mountains sky outdoor tree light house winter snow

Drive ≈ 2 hr Walk 6 hr 30 min

Blue Mountain

A hard 15.3 km route with 1000 m of elevation gain along a quartzite and sandstone ridge in Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains. Hard trail of 15.3 km, 1000 m of climb.

Dog rules: check the trail page

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Trails near Philadelphia

8 trails shown out of 75

A half-day outing takes a little planning.

Think about the way back, the breaks and the parking.

  • Check access

    Opening hours, parking and access conditions can change with the season.

  • Check the weather at the destination

    Changing weather can make some trails harder.

  • Choose your route

    Match the length and the level to your group and the time you have.

No car?

Without a car, an outing takes more planning. Some destinations near Philadelphia may be served by public transit, but none of our trail pages lists it yet.

Check schedules and the last return trip with the transit agency before you go.

See the frequently asked questions

Through the seasons

Spring

Spring in Philadelphia brings mild temperatures ranging from 50-70°F, making it ideal for exploring nearby trails in Wissahickon Valley Park and Fairmount Park.

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The season offers beautiful wildflower blooms and budding trees, though trails can be muddy from spring rains. Pack layers and waterproof boots, and plan for variable weather conditions between March and May.

Summer

Summer hiking around Philadelphia means hot, humid conditions with temperatures often reaching 80-90°F and high humidity levels.

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Early morning or evening hikes are recommended to avoid peak heat, with plenty of water essential for any outdoor activity. The lush green canopy provides welcome shade on forested trails, but be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms common in the region.

Fall

Fall offers some of the best hiking conditions near Philadelphia, with comfortable temperatures in the 60-70°F range and spectacular autumn foliage from late September through October.

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This is peak season for exploring regional parks and trails, so expect crowds on weekends. Pack layers as temperatures can vary significantly between morning and afternoon.

Winter

Winter hiking around Philadelphia involves cold temperatures typically ranging from 30-45°F, with occasional snow and ice making trails potentially hazardous.

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Microspikes or traction devices are recommended for icy conditions, and shorter daylight hours mean planning hikes accordingly. The bare trees offer different scenic perspectives, and trails are generally less crowded during this season.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I go hiking near Philadelphia?

The page lists 75 trails. The closest is Red Bank Battlefield Park (≈ 12 min drive from downtown), the farthest Schooley's Mountain Park (≈ 2 hr). Drive times are estimated as the crow flies.

How long does it take to drive to the trails near Philadelphia?

13 trails are within ≈ 30 min of driving, 25 within ≈ 1 hr, and all of them within ≈ 2 hr. These are estimates from downtown.

What are the most popular trails near Philadelphia?

Among the trails on this page, the most viewed on Let's Go Play Outside are Winding River Park, Hammonton Lake Park Trail and Riverwood Park Recreation.

How long are the trails near Philadelphia?

71 listings give a length, from 1.6 km (Barnegat Lighthouse State Park) to 80 km (Batona Trail). The other 4 do not say.

Are there easy hikes near Philadelphia?

Yes: among the trails on this page that give a level, 60 easy, 7 moderate and 3 hard. The closest easy ones: Red Bank Battlefield Park, Haddon Lake Park and Newton Lake Park.

Can I hike with my dog near Philadelphia?

7 listings say dogs are allowed and 0 say they are not. For the other 68, the rule is not confirmed: check the trail page before you go.

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Free guide: 25 hikes under 2 hours from Montreal

Drive time, distance and level for each one. The ones we go back to ourselves.

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