The best walks and hikes around Haverford College

There are over 20 hiking trails around Haverford College, offering a variety of experiences. These include easy loops around the campus arboretum and more moderate trails in nearby parks. The komoot community has explored more than 20 routes in the area.

Yes, Haverford College offers several easy trails. The campus itself features the Haverford College Nature Walk loop, a 2.2-mile (3.6 km) path. For a slightly longer option, consider the Centennial loop — Centennial Arboretum, an easy 3.5-mile (5.7 km) route that takes about 1 hour 27 minutes to complete. Another easy option is the Duck Pond – Haverford College Nature Trail loop from Ardmore, which is 3.8 miles (6.1 km) long.

The Haverford College campus, which functions as an arboretum, offers a rich variety of natural features. You can explore the scenic Duck Pond, the 18-acre Ryan Pinetum with its diverse conifer collection, and over 1,500 labeled trees, including specimen and state champion trees. The trails also pass through natural woodland areas, athletic fields, and meadows. Additionally, you might encounter outdoor sculptures and tranquil spots like the Asian Gardens.

Yes, dogs are permitted on leash on the Haverford College Nature Walk loop, which encircles the campus perimeter. Many local trails, including those at Haverford Reserve (Andy Lewis Community Park), are generally dog-friendly, but always ensure your dog is leashed and you clean up after them.

Yes, the region offers accessible options. A portion of the trails at Haverford Reserve (Andy Lewis Community Park), specifically part of the Southbrook trail, is paved and fully accessible. Additionally, one segment of the Darby Creek Trails, the Center Segment, is a hard-surfaced, multi-use trail designed to be fully accessible.

Hikes around Haverford College vary in length and duration. Easy campus loops like the Centennial loop — Centennial Arboretum are about 3.5 miles (5.7 km) and take around 1 hour 27 minutes. Moderate trails, such as the Trolly Trail loop — Philadelphia, can be around 5.6 miles (9.0 km) and take about 2 hours 21 minutes. Longer and more challenging routes, like those in Wissahickon Valley Park, can extend up to 11.4 miles (18.3 km) and take over 5 hours.

Many of the popular trails around Haverford College are circular. The Haverford College Nature Walk loop is a prime example, encircling the campus. Other circular options include the Centennial loop — Centennial Arboretum and the Duck Pond – Haverford College Nature Trail loop from Ardmore. The Haverford Heritage Trail is also a fourteen-mile loop that traverses the township.

The Haverford College arboretum and surrounding trails are beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming trees and flowers, while autumn offers vibrant fall foliage. Summer is pleasant for shaded walks, and winter can provide unique scenery, especially after a fresh snowfall. The trails are generally well-maintained for use in all seasons.

The trails around Haverford College are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful arboretum setting, the variety of natural landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable walks.

Yes, beyond the trails, you can explore several points of interest. The campus itself features the historic Penn Treaty Elm descendant and various outdoor sculptures. Nearby, you can find sections of the Schuylkill River Trail, and in Wissahickon Valley Park, the scenic Devil's Pool is a notable natural landmark.

Yes, parking is generally available. For trails on the Haverford College campus, visitor parking lots are accessible. For off-campus locations like Haverford Reserve (Andy Lewis Community Park), dedicated parking areas are provided for trail users. It's always a good idea to check specific trailhead information for the most accurate parking details.

Haverford College is accessible via public transportation, making it possible to reach the campus trails. The college is served by SEPTA regional rail and bus routes. For trails further afield, you may need to combine public transport with a short walk or ride-share, depending on the specific trailhead location.