Delaware River Trail - Scenic Philly Urban Hike
About the event
Join Me for a Scenic Urban Hike Along the Delaware River (approx. 6.75-7.5 miles)
As the summer comes to an end and the temperatures hopefully begin to cool down, it’s time to get out and enjoy another FPF hike.
We’ll hike a loop between our starting point and Penn Treaty Park, including Penn’s Landing, with several brief detours 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 mile hike in order to complete the it in under three hours.
Afterward, we’ll head to a nearby spot for brunch, lunch and/or drinks for anyone who would like to join.
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, The Irish Memorial, and Society Hill Towers.
From there, we’ll take Dock Street back toward Columbus Blvd. and continue north along the Delaware River past Penn’s Landing, Cherry Street Pier, and Race Street Pier.
Continuing north, we’ll pass beneath the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and past several additional 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 south 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 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 head south and back to Riverview Shopping Center parking lot.
We finish where we started.
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 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.
Important Notes • 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 • Difficulty: Moderate • Terrain: Primarily paved urban streets, sidewalks, and paved trails
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.
In the event of rain or severe weather, the hike will be canceled.
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 to leave valuables or anything else…
