With temperatures warming up, it’s time to explore the outdoors. What better way to do it than with your family? Biking is a perfect activity for spending time with your family, unwinding, staying healthy and getting to know our region’s bike trails.
Learn about the following beautiful, family-friendly historic trails in the Delaware Valley.
See the websites provided for more information on how to find these trails and trail maps.
Bartram’s Mile Trail
schuylkillbanks.org/projects/bartrams-mile
The path is located on the west bank of the Schuylkill River, and the trail runs from Grays Ferry Avenue to 56th Street in Kingsessing, Philadelphia. The other paths you’ll find in Bartram’s Garden are paved and surrounded by beautiful plant life, and the paths are easily accessible by bike. This scenic and family-friendly spot is perfect for a ride together and a picnic.
Bob Rodale Cycling and Fitness Park
lehighcounty.org/Departments/Parks-And-Recreation/Our-Parks/Rodale-Park
Located on 1151 Mosser Road in Breinigsville, Lehigh County, this wooded park has a paved loop with separate lanes for jogging and biking, surrounded by grassy fields and lush trees. A sandbox and a tricycle trail are available for younger children.
Forbidden Drive
Forbidden Drive, also known as the Wissahickon Valley Park Trail, on Valley Green Road in Philadelphia is a 5.3-mile-long trail with an average width of 25 feet. Its partially paved surface makes it kid and stroller friendly. Come visit Pennsylvania’s 2018 Trail of the Year with your family. In addition to Forbidden Drive, Wissahickon Valley Park offers 57 miles of trails to explore.
Grays Ferry Crescent Trail Park
schuylkillbanks.org/projects/grays-ferry-crescent
The Grays Ferry Crescent Trail extends from 34th Street to Wharton Street along the eastern side of the Schuylkill River. This space is popular for walks, dogs, picnics and fishing. The park features over 4,000 feet of bicycle trails and access routes and is well lit with benches, grassy picnic areas and benches.
Ironton Rail Trail
irontonrailtrail.org/index.html
Formerly serving a railroad, the Ironton Rail Trail in Whitehall has since been transformed into the safe and historic route many have come to know and love. The trail is 9.2 miles long and 10 feet wide. Its paved surface accommodates people of all ages and abilities. In addition to creeks and rivers, the trail features 23 historic sites.
Ridley Creek State Park
dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/RidleyCreekStatePark/Pages/default.aspx
A 5-mile trail in Ridley State Park is open to biking, walking and jogging. The state park itself is rich in history and is home to The Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, a living museum open on weekends from April to November. The Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation is at 3900 N. Sandy Flash Drive in Newtown Square. It features interactive exhibits and animals.
Tacony Creek Park
Tacony Creek Park covers approximately 300 acres in Philadelphia. The park is a pleasant mix of woods and meadows with convenient, even paths perfect for biking. Tacony Creek Park Trail is 3.2 miles long and is paved.
Over 100 species of birds and wildlife call this park home, and riders can sometimes see and hear them from the trail. Parking may be available on a number of adjacent streets such as East Olney Avenue and Garland Street.
Be sure to check out our article on bike safety here.
