Top Hiking Trails In Philadelphia for Kids

1. John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum — South Philadelphia

Most of us probably don't think marshland when we think of fall hikes. But let's face it: most of us don't think of marshland in and around Philly at all. Believe it or not, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge spans Delaware and Philadelphia counties, making this nature respite super convenient for families living in the city or the suburbs. It's a perfect place to spot some animals, go birdwatching, check out the season's changes, and do it all without driving far. The Visitor Center has new exhibitions and clean bathrooms, plus there are more than 10 miles of trails to explore, much of it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

2. Schuylkill Banks — Various locations

Philly families can find a variety of trails here winding along the banks of the Schuylkill River. Center City Trail has 11-12-foot wide paths, great for strollers, bikes, walking, or running. The Boardwalk is another spot to enjoy the views of the city, with a "down the shore" feel. The trails at Grays Ferry Crescent provide space for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Be sure to check out other trails, such as Schuylkill Crossing, that have been newly updated. 

3. Wissahickon Valley Park — Northwest Philadelphia

This place is amazing, period. Particularly good for families is Forbidden Drive, a wide, level path that follows Wissahickon Creek for about 5 1/2 miles. It’s an easy hike that’s suitable for strollers and even kids on bikes. Families will enjoy lovely views, particularly of the Wissahickon ravine. More advanced hikers can explore the rougher terrain of the Orange, Yellow, Lavender, and White trails. Bird-watching is another perfect fall activity at this spot. Plus, you might spot horseback riders!

There's a trail for kids of every age at Nockamixon State Park. Photo courtesy of PA DCNR

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4. Nockamixon State Park — Quakertown

Best known for its excellent fishing, Nockamixon State Park also offers fantastic family hiking opportunities. The Sterner Mill hiking trail is reserved for foot traffic with simple loops that go down to the lake and back, making it great for smaller kids. Other trails in the park are more rugged and rocky, so older kids might enjoy that challenge. Either way, families can't go wrong here, especially if they're looking for fall colors.

You can stop to drop a line while hiking through Tyler State Park. Photo courtesy of PA DCNR

5. Tyler State Park — Newtown

From sunup to sundown, visit Tyler State Park for the gorgeous trails that guide families through some really beautiful countryside. The Neshaminy Creek winds through the area, with 4 miles of gravel hiking and 10 miles of paved trails for walking or biking (may be a bit hilly for tiny adventurers). Come back to this park in the winter for sledding, ice skating, and cross country skiing. Educational programs are offered September through May.

6. Peace Valley Park — New Britain Township

Paved paths around Lake Galena make this a great park for families with kids on wheels. Plus there are picnic areas and park benches for snacks and breaks and a nature center offers programs for kids of all ages throughout the year. 

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7. ChesLen Preserve — Coatesville

The ChesLen Preserve is a private nature preserve with more than nine miles of unpaved trails for families to enjoy. Some of these trails are densely wooded, making them prime spots for autumn tree viewing. There are varying levels of difficulty, appropriate for preschoolers and older. Younger children are bound to beg for a stop at Ollie Owl's Playground, a unique nature-based play area where they can hunt for bugs, build stick tee-pees, explore small streams, and just generally enjoy the dirt. 

Enjoy a stroll through the farmland at ChesLen Preserve. 

8. Stroud Preserve — Coatesville

Responsible for providing drinking water to the Philly region, the watershed at Stroud Preserve is a habitat for wildlife and a great place for families to hike. Among some 571 acres and beautiful rolling hills, there are more than 5 miles of trails to explore from sunrise to sunset. Stroud is also an educational site that conducts scientific research.

9. Struble Trail — Downingtown

Struble Trail in Chester County follows the east branch of Brandywine Creek. The trail is largely flat and paved, making it ideal to hike or bike with young children. Much of the trail is rich with mature trees, so leaf-spotting is a favorite pastime. Rest stops and picnic areas dot the landscape when it's time for a bite, or just a break. Along the way, be sure to stop at the Born Learning Trail, created for young children through a United Way initiative, and the Free Little Library station to grab a book.

Dip your toes in the water while hiking through Stroud Preserve. Photo by Mae Axelrod

10. The Lions' Trail — Downingtown

Adjoining Struble Trail, Lions' Trail is a short, paved half-mile path perfect for families with little ones. The route takes visitors through Kardon Park, aptly named The Ponds, for its ten acres of ponds among 40 acres of land. Visitors also can fish, bird-watch, bike, and inline skate here.

11. The Laurels Preserve — Coatesville

A popular destination in Chester County, Laurels Run is a more moderate hiking trail near Philly that affords visitors the opportunity to see wildlife, including a wide variety of bird species. There are over 500 acres of picturesque hardwood forest, so consider bringing the good camera for a family photo. You must be a member of the Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art to enter, but a $125 family membership offers several worthwhile perks (plus a chance to see a child-sized train!).

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12. Chester Creek Trail — Media

Rail trails are trails that have been converted from old railway tracks, making them smooth and flat and great for wheels of all kinds. The Chester Creek Trail is one of several in the state, located in Delaware County. The paved middle section, which leads from Middletown to Aston, is about three miles and perfect for bikes and strollers. Hikers can expect unbelievable views of fall foliage in this neck of the woods.

13. Ridley Creek State Park — Media

Right in the heart of Delaware County, Ridley Creek State Park is a popular option for families itching to get outdoors. Miles of trails are set across this park's 2600 acres, where kids can also find playgrounds, encounter wildlife, and climb rocks. Ridley Creek runs lots of kid-friendly educational programming to help little ones learn more about their natural surroundings. Aside from the hiking, this park is beloved by history buffs for its cluster of historic properties. Through November, make a stop at the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, a living history site complete with period re-enactors who explain what life was like for farm workers in the 1700's. Bonus: Tyler Arboretum is next door!

Top Hiking Trails In Montgomery County for Kids

14. Chester Valley Trail — King of Prussia/Exton

From King of Prussia to Exton, this paved rail trail spans just shy of 15 miles, and is ideal for walkers with strollers, or cyclists. Not all hikers appreciate the trail's proximity to local highways, but there are enough trees and farmland to provide a beautiful backdrop. We actually like that this one isn't too far off the beaten path. Plus, there are several different trailheads, which makes it easy to find one near you.

15. Perkiomen Trail — Oaks

The Perkiomen Trail is a must-see for families in Montgomery County. The 20-mile trail follows the route of the Perkiomen Creek from Oaks to Green Lane Borough, so families can choose which sections are the most convenient. Plus, it connects to the Schuylkill River Trail and the Audubon Loop. Kids of all ages will enjoy the scenery, birdwatching, and catching a glimpse of animals along the creek. 

16. Wissahickon Trails — Various locations

The really cool, really accessible thing about Wissahickon Trails is that they maintain a network of more than 24 miles of trails across Montgomery County. Many of the trails are short, making them the perfect out-and-backs or loops for the youngest hikers. 

17. Valley Forge National Historical Park — King of Prussia

Philadelphia is the birthplace of America, and what better way to take in its rich history than with an adventure in Valley Forge, where George Washington's army once camped. Older kids and grown-ups will love the historical information and structures, and everyone will love the joyful autumn colors that bring the park to life. Paved trails make travel easy for everyone in the family, and it's conveniently situated for city dwellers as well as folks in the 'burbs. This location also has bike and horseback riding trails, but note that it's best to check the website before heading out to check for any closures.

Writer Hillary Moses Mohaupt contributed to an update of this article in 2024.