Authored By: The Circuit Trails | October 8, 2025

Peak fall foliage is just around the corner! According to the Smoky Mountains 2025 Fall Foliage Prediction Map, the trees across the Greater Philadelphia and southern New Jersey region are gearing up for a colorful display, with the third week in October predicted as peak foliage.

So, if you’re looking to experience the best fall colors around our region, here’s why you should get out on the Circuit Trails this season:

Why Are Circuit Trails Great Places to Experience the Fall Colors?

Greater Philadelphia and southern New Jersey have a mix of over 130 different types of trees, which means you can see lots of different colors—red maples, golden birches, bright orange oaks and more—when exploring the hundreds of miles of pathways that form the region’s Circuit Trails network. To top it off, the state’s hills, mountains and valleys provide great spots for different types of foliage.

Take a look at the some of the trails you can visit #OnTheCircuit to catch the perfect fall scenes! 

Photo by Circuit Trails

Radnor Trail

The Radnor Trail is a 2.4-mile, tree-lined path, built along a former rail line, that becomes a glowing corridor of reds, oranges and yellows as the season changes. The flat, paved route makes it an easy and welcoming spot for walkers, runners, cyclists and families alike, while benches and quiet pockets along the way invite visitors to pause and soak in the scenery. Just outside of Philadelphia, in the heart of Delaware County, the trail offers the perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty. 

Photo by Circuit Trails

Wissahickon Valley Park Trail 

A true Philly favorite, the Wissahickon Valley Park Trail stretches 8.5 miles through the breathtaking Wissahickon Gorge. In the fall, the canopy of towering oaks, maples and sycamores bursts into fiery shades, transforming the entire trail into a glowing woodland tunnel. Along the way, rustic stone bridges, moss-covered walls, and trickling waterfalls add to the park’s enchanting, almost storybook-like atmosphere. 

Photo by Thom Carroll

Pennypack Trail 

Stretching 16.8 miles along the Pennypack Creek, the Pennypack Trail is a peaceful escape that shines bright in the fall. Lofty trees line the path, creating a beautiful canopy that features the warm colors of fall. Spanning both Montgomery and Philadelphia counties, the trail is the perfect place to enjoy a long, leisurely ride or a short stroll through nature’s autumn showcase.

Photo by Thom Carroll

Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail

The Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail is one of New Jersey’s most beloved pathways. Spanning more than 73 miles along the canal, the trail offers postcard-worthy views with every turn. Walkers, runners and cyclists will find plenty of scenic stretches shaded by high-reaching  trees, treating them to sights of  gorgeous autumn colors and open sections that showcase the surrounding countryside.

Photo by Jim Walsh/Courier-Post

Merchantville Bike Path 

Though a shorter 1.5 miles, the Merchantville Bike Path has plenty of charm and a variety of foliage-viewing opportunities! This trail is great for a quick family-friendly outing, and is easy for walkers, runners and cyclists of all ages. Its convenient location also connects visitors to the heart of Merchantville, where local shops and eateries provide the perfect way to round out the day.

Photo by Iron Steel & Heritage

Struble Trail 

The Struble Trail in Chester County is a hidden gem for fall color, where vibrant foliage lines the scenic east branch of the Brandywine Creek. Stretching 2.6 miles along the former Waynesburg Rail Line, this mostly flat trail is perfect for a crisp autumn bike ride, run or leisurely walk.

Photo by @njcowgirl1 on Instagram

Kinkora Rail Trail

The Kinkora Rail Trail is a short-and-sweet spot for fall adventures, with tree-lined stretches that pop with autumn color. Kicking off at Mansfield Township Park, the trail runs 2 miles off-road to Skunk Island Road before picking up again through Veteran’s Memorial Park in Springfield. Along the way, you’ll catch plenty of leafy views and picturesque places to stop and savor the scenery or snap a quick pic.

As you leaf your worries behind and stroll into the season, don’t forget to capture those golden moments along the way. Post your fall-foliage finds on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and TikTok using the hashtag #OnTheCircuit–we can’t wait to see how you’re branching out this autumn!