The Easy 1-Mile Winter Hike In Philadelphia That’s Positively Bewitching

Everybody knows the story of Valley Forge, PA. In the brutal winter of 1777-1778, the Revolutionary Army, led by General George Washington, camped out on this site just a few miles from Philadelphia. Though no battle against the British was fought here, the soldiers dealt with horrific conditions. The winter was cold and snowy, food was scarce, frostbite claimed limbs day after day. Soldiers were not equipped with hats, gloves or coats - after all, those fighting for our country were a makeshift army dealing with their struggles as best as they could. In the time from December 1777 to June of 1778, they spent their time at Valley Forge, transforming into the determined, formidable force that defeated the British and established the United States of America as a free country.

Valley Forge itself has transformed into a National Historic Park, and walking through it in the winter is the best way to appreciate the suffering and sacrifice these soldiers made for our country.

Though there are nearly 20 miles of trails within the park, most are short 1-2 mile hikes.

Five of the trails are paved, making them accessible to nearly anyone.

The other eleven trails are a mix of dirt and improved flat trails.

You can easily see the historic site at Valley Forge without hiking more than 1-2 miles, if you plan your trip.

You can also take a winter drive through the park, stopping at 9 spots along a 10 mile route.

It's hard not to get chills, regardless of the weather, when you walk past the cabins.

These are not originals, but they are replicas of the cabins where the Revolutionary Army weathered a brutal winter.

The cannons were never fired in battle - but the soldiers here certainly felt the effects of war.

A visit to Valley Forge in winter is a truly moving experience, and you'll be absolutely mesmerized as you walk these sacred, historic grounds.

Valley Forge National Historic Park is open year round, from 7:00 AM to dark. You can visit Washington's Headquarters, tour a historic chapel, and watch historic films in the theater, but the hours for these attractions vary depending on the day and season. Check their website here for details on the special attractions. You can find details on each of the park's trails, including trailhead coordinates, right here.

Valley Forge National Historic Park is located at 1400 North Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia, PA 19406, just twenty miles outside of Philadelphia.