Enjoy a scenic, and historic, trip through the Pennypack Creek Valley on the over 14-mile Pennypack Trail. Begin at State Road in Holmesburg, PA. and head northwest as the trail follows alongside Pennypack Creek along a route that was once the corridor for the Fox Chase – Newton Branch Line. Highlights of the route include crossing over a newly built steel bridge which rises 35 feet over a scenic stream valley; passing through Philadelphia’s beloved Pennypack Park; experiencing the wildlife rich Lorimer Park; looking for birds at Betrayers Swamp, an Audubon designated Important Bird Area; and spotting the remains of the many water-powered mills that were in the area during colonial times. Also travel through the historic town of Bryn Athyn and a watershed area protected by the Pennypack Ecological Restoration Trust (this land is considered to be environmentally sensitive so be sure to stay on the trail). There are a few busy street crossings, as well as a train crossing, so obey signals and be cautious at these intersections. The trail ends at Byberry Road in Huntingdon Valley.

While scenic, the Pennypack is a hilly route, especially heading north. The section through Philadelphia is paved, but once the trail crosses into Montgomery County it is crushed stone, which is not suitable for road bikes. Within Pennypack look for additional routes that are ideal for mountain biking and horseback riding. The Pennypack is part of the East Coast Greenway and connects to the Baxter Trail, which is currently under construction along the Delaware River. For more information click here.

Photos: Trail Link