9 Picturesque Trails Around Philadelphia That Are Perfect For Winter Hiking
Don’t you just love the sight of snow falling? It’s a cue to head outside! Philly is absolutely gorgeous when it’s snowing, and these best winter hikes near Philadelphia will show you some amazing scenery while you breathe in that fresh, cool winter air. After your hike, curl up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa and you’ll really appreciate living in such a beautiful part of the country.
1. Wissahickon Valley Park
Forbidden Drive, Forbidden Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19119, USA
One of the best places for winter hiking near Philadephia is Wissahickon Valley Park. It's a wonder in all seasons, but some of the best scenes you'll see along the creek are when it's snowing and everything is silent and still. Visit the webpage to learn more.
Address: Forbidden Dr., Philadelphia, PA 19119
2. Valley Forge
1400 N Outer Line Dr, King of Prussia, PA 19406, USA
Hiking through Valley Forge in the snow will give you a new appreciation for the struggles that Washington's Army went through, in the winter of 1776-1777. Today it's an ideal place for cold weather hiking near Philadelphia. Read our previous coverage to learn more about winter hiking at Valley Forge.
Address: 1400 N Outer Line Dr., King of Prussia, PA 19406
Hike through Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware in this underrated Delaware State Park that has miles of trails and scenic creek crossings. Read our previous coverage to learn more about White Clay Creek State Park.
Address: 750 Thompson Station Road, Newark, DE 19711
4. Sourland Mountain Preserve
421 E Mountain Rd, Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844, USA
There's nothing like being in the mountains while it's snowing, and Sourland Mountain is much closer than the Poconos. If you're looking for things to do in the winter near Philadelphia, come here. Visit the webpage to learn more.
Address: 421 E Mountain Rd., Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844
Ridley Creek is another gorgeous Pennsylvania State Park, and you could easily spend all day here. Bundle up! You won't want to leave these gorgeous snowy trails for winter hiking near Philadelphia. Read our previous coverage to learn more about hiking at Ridley Creek State Park.
Pennypack is great to explore when you're looking for some peace and quiet along wintery trails. You can disappear into these woods for hours. Visit the webpage to learn more.
The wildlife refuge at Tinicum exists in the shadow of our large city, but it's a great reminder that stunning nature and beautiful scenery is just a quick drive away. It;s a beautiful location for some cold weather hiking near Philadelphia. Visit the webpage to learn more.
Address: 8601 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19153
If you only have time for one winter hike this year, make it Valley Forge. There is something quite magical about walking the same paths as our Revolutionary Army, feeling the chill that they felt in their bones, and seeing the tribute to their ultimate sacrifice. Read more about the Valley Forge National Historic Park here.
Do you have a favorite winter wonderland near Philly that didn’t make the list? What other best hikes near Philadelphia do you enjoy? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share photos of your adventures on Instagram (@onlyinphiladelphia) or on the Only In Philadelphia Facebook page for a chance to see them featured!
Address: 8601 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19153
Address: 750 Thompson Station Rd, Newark, DE 19711, USA
Address: 1400 N Outer Line Dr, King of Prussia, PA 19406, USA
Address: 421 E Mountain Rd, Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844, USA
Address: 1101 N 68th St, Philadelphia, PA 19151, USA
Address: 1023 Sycamore Mills Rd, Media, PA 19063, USA
Address: Tyler State Park, Newtown, PA, USA
Address: 8601 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19153, USA
Address: Forbidden Drive, Forbidden Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19119, USA
Address: Pennypack Trail, Philadelphia, PA 19136, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Winter Hiking Near Philadelphia
January 13, 2022
Melissa M.
What are some of the best things to do in winter in Philadelphia?
Aside from hiking during the winter, there are many other things to keep you busy this time of year. You can head to the Eagles Mere Toboggan Slide for a thrilling adventure as you fly down a hill. If you enjoy ice skating, you can do so at Blue Cross RiverRink. If you prefer staying indoors but still want to have fun, visit the Kalahari Indoor Waterpark at Pocono Manor. It’s the largest indoor water park in the country. You can find more ideas in this post.
Where can I go sledding in Philadelphia?
There are plenty of sled riding hills in and around the city. You can go to FDR Park in South Philly, Bartram’s Garden, Saint Joseph’s University, and Cobbs Creek Golf Course, among many other places.
Are there any snow tubing hills near Philadelphia?
Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
