Easy hikes and walks around Mount Ephraim
4.7
(17)
392
hikers
39
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Mount Ephraim are characterized by accessible green spaces and walking paths, often alongside lakes and rivers. The region offers a network of trails suitable for leisurely strolls and family-friendly outings. These routes typically feature minimal elevation changes, providing a gentle hiking experience through local parks and natural preserves.
Best easy hiking trails around Mount Ephraim
- The most popular easy hiking route is Newton Lake Trail, a 3.8 miles (6.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 32 minutes to complete. This route offers pleasant views around Newton Lake.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Crows Woods Nature Preserve Trail, an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) path. This trail winds through a natural preserve with minimal elevation gain.
- Local hikers also love the Cooper River and Maria Barnaby Greenwald Trail Loop, a 4.5 miles (7.3 km) trail leading through parkland alongside the Cooper River, often completed in about 1 hour 51 minutes.
- Hiking around Mount Ephraim is defined by park trails, lakeside paths, and natural preserves. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails.
- The routes in Mount Ephraim are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore Mount Ephraim's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
4
hikers
6.05km
01:33
20m
20m
The Newton Lake Trail in Camden County, New Jersey, is a charming and accessible urban loop, perfect for a quick nature fix. This easy 3.8-mile (6.0 km) hike features a minimal 72 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and typically takes about 1 hour and 32 minutes to complete. You'll enjoy a mostly flat path, often paved, winding through tree-sheltered areas with pleasant views of Newton Lake, complete with playgrounds and picnic spots.
Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and birdwatching, so consider an early start to avoid peak crowds. It's a year-round destination, offering a green respite from city life. There are no permits or fees required, and parking is generally available near the lake.
This trail stands out as a highly popular urban retreat, providing a tranquil environment despite its proximity to developed areas. It's a fantastic option for families, dog walkers, or anyone looking for an easy, scenic stroll to enjoy the natural features and perhaps spot some local wildlife like rabbits.
2
hikers
2.37km
00:36
10m
10m
Step into a surprisingly wild pocket of nature on the Crows Woods Nature Preserve Trail, an easy 1.5-mile (2.4 km) hike that winds through varied terrain. You'll explore deciduous woodlands, traverse swampy lowlands, and follow streamside habitats, all while encountering steps and bridges that add to the journey. The highlight for many is the active beaver pond, a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing, making this short route feel much more adventurous than its 28 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain suggests.
Planning your visit to Crows Woods is straightforward; it's an accessible trail perfect for a quick escape, taking about 36 minutes to complete. While there are no complex logistics like permits or fees, aim for a visit in late October to witness the stunning autumn colors or in early June when the mountain laurel is in full bloom. The trail is open year-round, offering a reliable option for a nature walk close to Haddonfield.
What makes Crows Woods truly special is its ability to provide an immersive natural experience right in an almost-urban setting. Despite being tucked between ball fields and an active rail line, it feels like a genuine wilderness. Beyond the beavers, the preserve's mature forest makes it an excellent location for birding, attracting a diverse array of species throughout the seasons, making it a favorite among local nature enthusiasts.
Sign up for free
1
hikers
7.32km
01:51
20m
20m
The Cooper River and Maria Barnaby Greenwald Trail Loop offers a refreshing blend of urban park and natural woodland scenery, making it a popular choice for a quick escape. This easy 4.6-mile (7.3 km) hike, taking about 1 hour and 51 minutes, offers a gentle 51 feet (15 metres) of elevation gain as you traverse paved sections along the Cooper River and then transition to dirt paths and boardwalks through dense forest and wetlands. You'll enjoy serene river views, diverse flora, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, with the distant Philadelphia skyline occasionally peeking through the trees.
Parking is readily available at multiple lots within Cooper River Park, and you'll find convenient amenities like restrooms and picnic areas in both parks. While the trail is mostly flat, be prepared for potentially muddy sections after rainfall, so appropriate footwear is a good idea. Spring and summer are ideal for experiencing the blooming wildflowers and active birdlife, making it a great option for a family-friendly outing.
Beyond the natural beauty, the trail holds interesting local context; Maria Barnaby Greenwald Park is named after a prominent environmentalist, and the area has historical ties to the discovery of the *Hadrosaurus foulkii* dinosaur. You can also explore the 1.8-mile "Watchable Wildlife Walk" within Maria Barnaby Greenwald Park, which features interpretive signs to help identify the diverse birdlife and habitats, adding an educational layer to your outdoor adventure.
1
hikers
1.25km
00:19
0m
0m
The Edgewood Lake Loop offers a delightful, easy walk around the water, perfect for a quick dose of nature. This short 0.8-mile (1.3 km) hike features minimal elevation gain of just 8 feet (3 metres), making it an accessible and relaxing option for all ages. You'll enjoy pleasant views of the lake, with the charming Gazebo and Boathouse at Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park providing a scenic focal point.
Located within Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park, the trailhead is easy to find, and parking is typically available, though it can fill up during peak times. Since it's an easy 18-minute loop, you can fit this walk into almost any part of your day, and it's enjoyable in any season, especially during the milder spring and autumn months.
This loop is a fantastic option for those seeking a very gentle outdoor activity or a family-friendly outing in Philadelphia. It's a great way to experience a bit of green space and enjoy the tranquility of the lake without committing to a longer, more strenuous hike.
This easy 1.3-mile (2.1 km) loop offers a delightful escape into nature, taking about 33 minutes to complete with only 54 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain. You'll wander through a mosaic of mowed and fallow fields, transitioning into serene streamside woodlands. The trail provides excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly around the beautiful pond area and the wooded dog park, which even has its own small lake.
Timber Creek Park is well-equipped for visitors, offering ample parking, indoor restrooms, and water fountains right at the trailhead. While the trail is generally straightforward, some markers may be vandalized, so it's wise to keep a trail app handy to ensure you stay on the correct path. This easy route is ideal for a quick, accessible outdoor activity.
Bordering the north branch of Big Timber Creek, this 128-acre park is a haven for biodiversity, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts. The mix of open fields and streamside woodlands creates diverse habitats supporting a wide array of local fauna. It's also a popular spot for dog owners, featuring a large, fenced-in dog park within the woods.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Wallworth Park is a 56-acre park along the Cooper River. It has a lot of green space and is a great place for a walk.
0
0
Designed by the Olmsted Brothers, who were the sons of Frederick Law Olmsted, the architect behind New York's Central Park, this park stands as the largest in South Philadelphia. Locals often refer to it as "The Lakes" due to the abundance of lakes scattered throughout the area.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Mount Ephraim?
There are nearly 30 easy hiking trails around Mount Ephraim, offering various options for leisurely walks through local parks and natural preserves.
Are there family-friendly easy hikes in Mount Ephraim?
Yes, many trails are suitable for families. For a short and pleasant outing, consider the Edgewood Lake Loop, which is just over a mile long. The Crows Woods Nature Preserve Trail is another excellent option, winding through a natural preserve with minimal elevation.
Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails in Mount Ephraim?
Many parks and trails in the Mount Ephraim area are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. The Timber Creek Cross Country Walking Track and Dog Park Perimeter Loop is a great choice, as it includes a dedicated dog park area.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes around Mount Ephraim?
Easy hikes around Mount Ephraim typically feature flat or gently rolling terrain, often on paved paths, gravel trails, or well-maintained dirt paths. You'll find routes alongside lakes and rivers, through green spaces, and within natural preserves, with minimal elevation changes.
Are there any circular easy walks in the Mount Ephraim area?
Yes, several easy trails offer circular routes. The Cooper River and Maria Barnaby Greenwald Trail Loop is a popular 4.5-mile option that takes you through parkland alongside the Cooper River. The Newton Lake Trail also offers a pleasant loop around the lake.
What can I see along the easy hiking trails around Mount Ephraim?
The easy hiking trails often feature scenic views of local waterways like Newton Lake and the Cooper River. You'll also experience green spaces, wooded areas, and natural preserves. While not directly on the trails, nearby attractions include the Liberty Bell and the Masonic Temple, Philadelphia, which are a short drive away.
What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Mount Ephraim?
The spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for hiking in Mount Ephraim, with pleasant weather and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter hikes are possible but may require appropriate gear for colder conditions.
Are there less crowded easy trails available?
While popular routes like Newton Lake Trail can see more visitors, exploring smaller local parks or visiting during off-peak hours (weekdays, early mornings) can offer a more tranquil experience. The Crows Woods Nature Preserve Trail often provides a quieter natural setting.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Mount Ephraim?
The easy hiking trails around Mount Ephraim are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the pleasant lakeside and riverside views, and the well-maintained paths that make for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Are there any easy hikes with nearby places to eat or drink?
Many of the parks and preserves around Mount Ephraim are located within or close to residential areas with various dining options. After a hike along the Cooper River and Maria Barnaby Greenwald Trail Loop, you'll find restaurants and cafes in nearby towns like Cherry Hill or Collingswood.
Is public transport available to access easy hiking trails?
Public transport options, such as local bus services, may provide access to some of the larger parks and trailheads in the Mount Ephraim area. It's advisable to check local transit schedules and routes for specific trail access points.
What should I pack for an easy hike in Mount Ephraim?
For easy hikes, comfortable walking shoes, water, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) are generally sufficient. Depending on the season, you might also consider light layers of clothing. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Most popular routes around Mount Ephraim
Most popular attractions around Mount Ephraim
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
