Delaware River Trail - Scenic Philly Urban Hike (Rescheduled)

Join Me for this Scenic Urban Hike Along the Delaware River

Fall has arrived and temperatures are cooling. It’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy this “Fabulous” hike.

We’ll hike a loop between our starting point and Penn Treaty Park, with several brief detours, including Penn’s Landing, and stops to take in the great views and visit parks, historic landmarks, piers, and other points of interest along the way.

Although we’ll make periodic stops to take photos and allow everyone to regroup, we’ll maintain a steady pace of approximately 2.8–3.2 mph over the 6.75-7.5 miles hike in order to complete the it in under three hours.

Afterward, we’ll head to a nearby spot for some food and drinks for anyone who would like to join.

Note: In the event of rain or severe weather, the hike will be canceled.

The Plan We’ll meet at 10:00 AM in the Riverview Shopping Center parking lot on the southwest corner of Columbus Blvd (Delaware Ave) and Washington Ave. After brief introductions and getting everyone organized, we’ll begin walking at approximately 10:15 AM.

Our route will take us to Gloria Dei Old Swedes Episcopal Church, aka Old Swedes Church, then north along Front Street, passing Serenity Park and continuing to Foglietta Plaza, the Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Irish Memorial, and Society Hill Towers.

From there, we’ll head back toward Columbus Blvd. and continue north past Penn’s Landing, Cherry Street Pier, and Race Street Pier.

Continuing north, we’ll pass beneath the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and past several more piers and points of interest before reaching Penn Treaty Park.

At Penn Treaty Park, we’ll take some time to enjoy the spectacular views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, the Delaware River, New Jersey, and The Battery, the beautifully restored former power station.

From there, we’ll turn around and head back along the Delaware River Trail, passing Rivers Casino, Waterfront Square, Rivermark Northern Liberties, and various piers until we reach Penn’s Landing.

At Penn’s Landing, we’ll leave Columbus Blvd to walk along the riverfront, passing Independence Blue Cross RiverRink, Liberty Point, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Penn’s Landing Marina, and The Moshulu.

The trail will eventually bring us back to Columbus Blvd, where we’ll continue to head south and back to our starting point, Riverview Shopping Center parking lot.

At that point, you can wrap up your day—or join us for something to eat and drink nearby.

Shorter-Hike Option If you find the pace challenging or simply prefer a shorter hike, you will have the option to bypass certain segments, stop before we reach Penn Treaty Park and reconnect with us on our way back, or turn back at almost any point.

Please understand, however, that if you choose to leave the group and turn back, you will be on your own and responsible for making your way back to the starting point.

Hike Details • Distance: Approximately 6.75 miles, with optional additions that can bring the total to approximately 7.5 miles • Pace: Approximately 3.0+/-mph — moderate/steady pace • Terrain: Primarily paved urban streets, sidewalks, and paved trails • Difficulty: Moderate

While the hike itself is not technically difficult, the distance and pace require a reasonable level of fitness.

We’ll do our best to keep the group together and allow occasional opportunities to regroup, but please be realistic about your own fitness level and ability to maintain the advertised pace.

Gear/food/drink, etc. • Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes are recommended. • Wear weather-appropriate clothing. • Bring plenty of water. • Bring snacks to keep you going during the hike. • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended depending on the weather.

Parking There are several parking options in the area, including the shopping center parking lot and street parking.

Please read all parking signs carefully and make sure you are legally parked. Also, be especially careful not…