At only .4 miles, the Manayunk Bridge Trail may be short, but it provides a vital link to other rail-trails, Circuit Trails, and the East Coast Greenway. The trail traverses the iconic Manayunk Bridge, which was opened in 1918 by the Pennsylvania Railroad as part of the Schuylkill Branch. When rail use ceased in 1986 the bridge fell into disuse, and remained so until 2015 when the bridge reopened to pedestrians, cyclists and in-line skaters. Today, trail users will enjoy spectacular views of the Schuylkill River Valley and Philly’s Manayunk neighborhood, as well as being able to connect to the Cynwyd Heritage Trail and the immensely popular Schuylkill River Trail.

Access the trail in Bala Cynwyd from the Cynwyd Heritage Trail, and in Manayunk, at the intersection of Dupont Street and High Street. To reach the Schuylkill River Trail, make your way to the Manayunk Canal Towpath (which is what this section of the Schuylkill is named) just down from Main Street.

The trail will eventually connect to the Ivy Ridge Trail, which will follow the former railroad corridor from the bridge terminus to SEPTA’s Ivy Ridge Station. As of August 2022, new lightening system and security enhancements were implemented, and the trail is now open with 24 hours access.

Photos: Trail Link