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Montgomery County

Wyncote

The best running trails around Wyncote

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 30, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan jogging around Wyncote, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails and paths, it's hard to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed over 30 routes here, so we've done the legwork to bring you the very best.

Jogging around Wyncote means embracing the diverse landscape of dense woodlands and varied topography, especially within the expansive Wissahickon Valley Park. You'll find everything from scenic creek-side paths along the Wissahickon Creek to the smooth, paved Lincoln Drive Trail. The region's moderate climate means you can enjoy these routes comfortably year-round, offering a consistent escape into nature.

If you only do one route, we'd start with the popular Wissahickon Creek Viewpoint – Wissahickon Creek Waterfall loop from Highland. At 14.2 miles (22.9 km), it's a challenging but incredibly rewarding journey through the heart of Wissahickon Valley Park. For a slightly shorter, yet equally scenic option, the Wissahickon Creek Waterfall loop from Woodmere Art Museum offers a fantastic 7.2 miles (11.7 km) of moderate terrain. With more than 600 runners already using komoot to explore Wyncote, you're in good company. Dive in and find your next favorite route!

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Wissahickon Creek Viewpoint – Wissahickon Creek Waterfall loop from Saint Martins
  2. 2

    Wissahickon Creek Viewpoint – Wissahickon Creek Waterfall loop from Highland
  3. 3

    Wissahickon Creek Waterfall – Valley Green Inn loop from Chestnut Hill East

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Wissahickon Creek Viewpoint – Wissahickon Creek Waterfall loop from Saint Martins

27.5 km

460 m

Hard

Wissahickon Creek Viewpoint – Wissahickon Creek Waterfall loop from Highland

22.9 km

390 m

Hard

Wissahickon Creek Waterfall – Valley Green Inn loop from Chestnut Hill East

13.2 km

150 m

Moderate

Wissahickon Creek Waterfall – Thomas Mill Covered Bridge loop from Chestnut Hill East

24.1 km

320 m

Hard

Wissahickon Creek Waterfall loop from Woodmere Art Museum

10.7 km

150 m

Moderate

Wissahickon Creek Viewpoint – Teedyuscung Statue loop from Woodmere Art Museum

11.1 km

230 m

Moderate

Pennypack Trail – Pennypack Spur Trail loop from Fox Chase

19.1 km

170 m

Hard

Running loop from Springfield Township

6.56 km

30 m

Moderate

Kitchen's Lane bridge – Falls Bridge loop from Carpenter

14.1 km

140 m

Moderate

Wissahickon Creek Waterfall – Devil's Pool loop from Carpenter

18.5 km

200 m

Hard

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1.

Wissahickon Creek Viewpoint – Wissahickon Creek Waterfall loop from Saint Martins

27.5km

03:23

460m

460m

This challenging Wissahickon Creek loop from Saint Martins offers a fantastic jogging experience through varied terrain and lush scenery. You'll follow the tranquil creek, passing through quiet woods and over picturesque bridges, with the highlight being the dramatic landscape around Devil's Pool waterfall. The route combines well-kept paths with gravel, mud, and rocky sections, including some steep inclines if you venture onto trails like the Orange Trail.

Planning your visit to this 17.1-mile (27.5 km) route, which features 1515 feet (462 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 3 hours and 22 minutes, is straightforward. Parking is available near Saint Martins, but it's wise to arrive early, especially on busy days. The park is accessible year-round, but the vibrant autumn colors make for an especially scenic run.

This difficult jogging route is a testament to Wissahickon Valley Park's status as a significant natural landmark within Philadelphia. It provides a serene escape from the city, known for its awe-inspiring natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including red foxes and deer, and enjoy the historical charm of features like the Thomas Mill Covered Bridge, the only covered bridge in a major US city.

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3.

Wissahickon Creek Waterfall – Valley Green Inn loop from Chestnut Hill East

13.2km

01:28

150m

150m

This moderate 8.2-mile (13.2 km) jogging loop through Wissahickon Valley Park offers a fantastic escape into nature, complete with 490 feet (149 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 27 minutes. You'll navigate a diverse landscape, from wide, flat gravel paths to more challenging single-track trails with roots and rocks. The route winds past the serene Wissahickon Creek, through lush forests, and by historical gems like the Valley Green Inn and the charming Devil's Pool waterfall, providing a dynamic and scenic workout.

Starting from the Chestnut Hill East area, this loop is easily accessible, though specific parking can vary, so plan to arrive early, especially on weekends. The park is open year-round, but trail conditions, particularly mud after rain, can impact your experience, so check local weather before you go. While there are no permits required, carrying water is always a good idea, and you'll find the park offers plenty of shade on sunny days.

Wissahickon Valley Park is a true urban wilderness, providing a sense of remote escape right within Philadelphia. Its rich history, diverse trail network, and picturesque gorge have inspired writers and artists for centuries. This particular loop highlights the park's blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a notable choice for anyone looking for an engaging jog with plenty of points of interest.

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4.

Wissahickon Creek Waterfall – Thomas Mill Covered Bridge loop from Chestnut Hill East

24.1km

02:41

320m

320m

Embark on the Wissahickon Creek Waterfall – Thomas Mill Covered Bridge loop, a difficult 15.0-mile (24.1 km) jogging route that immerses you in the lush, secluded beauty of Wissahickon Valley Park. You'll navigate a mix of wide, gravel paths and rugged, root-filled trails, all while enjoying views of the tranquil Wissahickon Creek. The route, which includes 1050 feet (320 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes, culminates at the iconic Thomas Mill Covered Bridge, where a small, dam-created waterfall adds to the charm. It's an ideal choice if you're seeking a challenging run with a true sense of escape within Philadelphia.

Starting from the Chestnut Hill East area, this loop offers a varied workout. While sections of the trail are relatively flat, be ready for significant elevation changes and

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5.

Wissahickon Creek Waterfall loop from Woodmere Art Museum

10.7km

01:17

150m

150m

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required.

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7.

Pennypack Trail – Pennypack Spur Trail loop from Fox Chase

19.1km

02:12

170m

170m

This Pennypack Trail – Pennypack Spur Trail loop from Fox Chase offers a dynamic jogging experience through Philadelphia's expansive Pennypack Park. You'll wind through dense woodlands along the Pennypack Creek, encountering a mix of paved paths, crushed stone, and singletrack sections with small technical features. Keep an eye out for historic landmarks like the oldest continuously used road bridge in the United States, adding a touch of history to your natural surroundings.

Planning your visit for this 11.9-mile (19.1 km) difficult route, which takes about 2 hours and 12 minutes to complete with 557 feet (170 metres) of elevation gain, is straightforward. The trail is popular, so consider an early start for easier parking, especially on weekends. The varied terrain and rolling hills make it a good option for joggers seeking a moderate workout with diverse surfaces.

Part of the larger Circuit Trails network, this route provides a rugged experience within a major city. The Pennypack Trail follows a former rail line, and the park itself boasts 1,600 acres of varied landscapes, including meadows and wetlands. You might even spot Fox Chase Farm, one of the last working farms in a major city, near the trail.

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8.

Running loop from Springfield Township

6.56km

00:41

30m

30m

The Running loop from Springfield Township offers a refreshing escape into nature, blending diverse terrain with glimpses of local history. As you jog, you'll navigate a mix of rolling hills, flatlands, and singletrack paths, winding through woodlands and wetlands. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer and foxes along streams such as Whiskey Run, and discover the intriguing ruins of old paper mills and a former water bottling plant, adding a unique historical dimension to your run.

This moderate jogging route covers 4.1 miles (6.6 km) with a gentle 108 feet (33 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 40 minutes to complete. The varied surfaces and numerous creek crossings mean you'll want good trail shoes, especially after rain. The trail is easily accessible from Springfield Township, Pennsylvania, with multiple access points around Smedley Park, making it convenient for a quick but engaging workout.

What makes this route stand out is its rich ecological and historical tapestry. Beyond the natural beauty of its woodlands and stream valleys, the trail offers a journey through the area's industrial past. Active community involvement from groups like the Friends of Smedley Park ensures the trail remains well-maintained and enjoyable for all, providing a valuable local resource for outdoor enthusiasts.

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9.

Kitchen's Lane bridge – Falls Bridge loop from Carpenter

14.1km

01:31

140m

140m

This Kitchen's Lane bridge – Falls Bridge loop offers a unique blend of Philadelphia's urban riverfront and wild woodlands. You'll jog along the paved Schuylkill River Trail, enjoying views of the Schuylkill River and the historic Falls Bridge, before diving into the lush, natural setting of Wissahickon Valley Park. The terrain shifts from smooth pavement to crushed gravel on Forbidden Drive, and then to rugged singletrack with rocks and roots, providing a diverse experience over its 8.8 miles (14.1 km).

Planning your visit means preparing for varied surfaces and a moderate challenge, especially within Wissahickon Valley Park. The route covers 466 feet (142 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 1 hours and 30 minutes to complete. Weekends are particularly pleasant for the Schuylkill River Trail section, as parts of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive are often closed to cars, making it a popular choice for Philadelphia running.

This loop is notable for connecting two distinct Philadelphia landscapes, offering a rich variety of scenery and historical significance. You'll pass historic structures and remnants of old mills, particularly around the Kitchen's Lane Bridge area, and experience the dense woodlands near Carpenter's Woods. It's a fantastic option if you're looking for a dynamic workout that showcases the city's natural and historical gems.

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10.

Wissahickon Creek Waterfall – Devil's Pool loop from Carpenter

18.5km

02:04

200m

200m

The Wissahickon Creek Waterfall – Devil's Pool loop from Carpenter offers a truly diverse jogging experience, taking you through dense forests and along the picturesque Wissahickon Creek. You'll navigate a mix of smooth gravel paths, particularly on sections of Forbidden Drive, and more rugged, rocky, and root-filled terrain on trails like the Orange or Yellow, all leading to the dramatic natural basin of Devil's Pool where Cresheim Creek forms a small waterfall. This route provides a wild escape within Philadelphia, showcasing ancient trees and unique geological formations.

This is a difficult 11.5-mile (18.5 km) jog with 664 feet (202 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours and 3 minutes. Due to the varied and sometimes challenging terrain, sturdy trail running shoes are essential, especially after wet weather. While the park is accessible year-round, visiting during spring or fall offers the best conditions for enjoying the scenery and avoiding extreme temperatures.

This loop is a fantastic way to explore Wissahickon Valley Park, an urban oasis known for its natural beauty and rich history. The park boasts over 50 miles of trails, and this particular route highlights the unique geological features around Devil's Pool and the ecological significance of areas like Carpenter's Woods, an old-growth forest. It's a popular choice for those seeking a substantial and engaging trail run.

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Tips from the Community

Lisa
September 28, 2024, Valley Green Inn

This inn is the last roadhouse in all of Philadelphia, and a much-beloved part of Fairmount Park. Although you can't stay here overnight, they serve good food and the inn serves as a sort of communal gathering spot: You can cozy up to the fireplace in the winter, or chill out on the porches in the summer.

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Wissahickon Creek flows over an old man-made stone shelf to create a wide waterfall that you can walk out towards on slabs of stone that rise up from the riverbed.

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Matthew
February 12, 2024, Lincoln Drive Trail

Lincoln Drive Trail runs parallel to Lincoln Drive with the Wissahickon Creek on the other side. This is a really pretty piece of paved trails with multiple bridges across the water.

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Wissahickon Valley Creek is a short but beautiful river and its 23 mile length gives a stunning variety of topography. For the last few miles of its length it runs through a gorge which has been incorporated into a lush 1,800-acre park.

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Matthew
November 18, 2023, Lincoln Drive Trail

Lincoln Drive Trail runs parallel to Lincoln Drive with the Wissahickon Creek on the other side. This is a really pretty piece of paved trails with multiple bridges across the water.

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They constructed this bridge in 1855, and it underwent renovations in 1939 and 2000. It stands as the solitary remaining covered bridge within a major U.S. city, and is one of five surviving Howe-truss bridges in Pennsylvania. The Howe-truss design, characterized by a series of triangles that enhance bridge strength and stability, is a defining feature.

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This trail offers lush green surroundings, alternating between shaded and open segments. The terrain features occasional rocky patches, enhancing the challenge. Throughout the hike, you'll have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of numerous wildflowers and various types of mushrooms that line the path.

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Tyler Sanders
August 13, 2023, Kelpius Cave

Referred to as "Hermit's Cave" or "Kelpius Cave," this location was believed to serve as the entrance to the dwelling of Transylvanian scholar Johannes Kelpius. He held the belief that the world would come to an end in 1694, leading his followers from the "Society of the Women in the Wilderness" to this very spot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many running routes are available around Wyncote?

There are over 25 dedicated running routes around Wyncote, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels. These include 16 moderate and 9 difficult trails, ensuring options for different fitness levels.

Are there any easy running routes suitable for beginners in Wyncote?

While Wyncote's routes are generally rated as moderate to difficult, many sections of trails like the Lincoln Drive Trail loop from Northwest Philadelphia offer mostly paved surfaces that are suitable for various fitness levels, including those new to running. It's a great option for a less strenuous run.

What kind of terrain can I expect on Wyncote's running paths?

Wyncote's running paths offer a diverse terrain. You'll find scenic creek-side paths, dense woodlands, and well-maintained paved multi-use trails. The Wissahickon Valley Park, for instance, features varied topography with trails that can be challenging, while the Lincoln Drive Trail provides a smoother, paved experience.

Are there running routes with scenic views or natural features like waterfalls?

Absolutely! The Wissahickon Valley Park is a highlight for scenic runs, with trails running alongside the Wissahickon Creek, offering views of waterfalls and dense woodlands. The Wissahickon Creek Viewpoint – Wissahickon Creek Waterfall loop from Highland specifically highlights these natural features.

Can I find circular running routes in the Wyncote area?

Yes, many of the running routes in Wyncote are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Wissahickon Creek loop from Historic Rittenhouse Town and the Kelpius Cave (Hermit's Cave) loop from Tulpehocken.

Are the running trails in Wyncote suitable for families?

While many routes involve varied terrain, some sections, particularly on paved trails like the Lincoln Drive Trail, can be suitable for families. For specific family-friendly features, it's best to check individual route details for terrain and distance, as some trails in Wissahickon Valley Park can be more challenging.

Are dogs allowed on the running routes in Wyncote?

Many parks and trails in the Wyncote area, including sections of Wissahickon Valley Park, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to check specific park regulations and trail rules regarding leashes and waste disposal before heading out with your canine companion.

What are some interesting landmarks or attractions I might see along the running routes?

As you run, you might encounter several interesting points. Within the broader area, you can find the Teedyuscung Statue, the natural beauty of Devil's Pool, and the historic Stone Staircase. The extensive Schuylkill River Trail is also accessible nearby.

How accessible are Wyncote's running routes by public transport?

Wyncote and its surrounding areas have public transport options that can provide access to various trailheads, especially those closer to urban centers like Northwest Philadelphia. For specific routes, it's advisable to check local transit schedules and stops near your chosen starting point.

Where can I park when visiting the running trails in Wyncote?

Parking is generally available near popular trailheads, especially around Wissahickon Valley Park and other green spaces. Specific parking information can often be found on local park websites or within the details of individual running routes on komoot.

What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Wyncote?

The running routes in Wyncote are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from the lush woodlands and creek-side paths of Wissahickon Valley Park to the well-maintained paved surfaces of trails like the Lincoln Drive Trail, offering a refreshing outdoor experience.

Are there shaded running routes for warmer days in Wyncote?

Yes, many of the routes, particularly those winding through Wissahickon Valley Park, offer significant tree cover and dense woodlands. This provides ample shade, making them more comfortable for running during warmer weather.

What is the best time of year to go running in Wyncote?

Wyncote offers enjoyable running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer runs are best enjoyed on shaded trails or during cooler parts of the day, while winter running is possible, though conditions may vary with snow or ice.

Are there options for long-distance running in the Wyncote area?

Yes, Wyncote and its proximity to regional trail networks offer excellent opportunities for long-distance running. Routes like the Wissahickon Creek Waterfall – Kelpius Cave loop from Chestnut Hill East extend over 24 kilometers, and the broader Schuylkill River Trail provides even more extensive mileage for endurance runners.

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