Pennypack Trail
Pennypack Trail meanders along Pennypack Creek and is spread over 14 miles. It begins at State Road in Holmesburg. The mature trees along the trail provide a canopy that protects the runner during the summer heat, the trail is wide, and the scenery stunning. The trail is quiet, yet well-used by both runners and walkers, and you are rarely out of sight of another runner. The trail crosses picnic grounds and features a newly built 35-foot steel bridge. The trail follows the bank of the creek, and remnants of long abandoned water-powered mills can be seen all along the creek. The trail is mostly flat, but the sections are hilly, particularly if you are running northbound. Most of the trail is hard surface asphalt, but part of the trail is crushed stone.
Pennypack Trail in Pennypack Park Dough4872, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Poquessing Creek Trail
Near Benjamin Rush State Park, opened in 2014, Poquessing Creek Trail is a hard-surface trail that is about 1.5 miles long, with endpoints at Junod Playground and Poquessing Valley Park, and the expansive Benjamin Rush State Park. It also connects to active sports fields for those who want to combine a run with a game or two.
Benjamin Rush State Park
Spread over 275 acres, Benjamin Rush State Park offers several multi-use trails that are perfect for a brisk morning walk, jog, or more rigorous sprint. These trails traverse open fields and forests while connecting to local neighborhoods. The park is popular among hikers, bicyclists, and wildlife enthusiasts. It also features one of the largest community gardens.
Delaware Canal Towpath
There’s no shortage of length here. Nearby in Bucks County, is a 60-mile path (referred to as the Towpath Trail). Running from New Hope all the way up to Easton PA, it would likely take an entire day to complete this trip alongside a historic canal setting a serene natural backdrop.
Delaware Canal Towpath Zeete, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Playwicki Park
Playwicki Park has a 1.1-mile trail near Langhorne, PA. It has an easy, flat path that can be great for a leisurely walk or even a run.
If you’re looking to get more active, NE Philly has plenty of other recreational options to choose from in addition to these great running trails.
