The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Swarthmore

Swarthmore offers a great selection of family-friendly hiking options. You'll find nearly 20 routes specifically curated for families, with the majority being easy to moderate in difficulty.

The trails in Swarthmore, particularly within the Crum Woods and Scott Arboretum, offer varied terrain. You can find flatter sections along Crum Creek, as well as more challenging routes with inclines, exposed roots, and rocks. Many trails are well-maintained, but some areas might be unpaved and hilly, providing a natural outdoor experience.

While many trails in Swarthmore are family-friendly, some sections of the Crum Woods can have uneven surfaces, roots, and inclines, which might be challenging for strollers. The Scott Arboretum, with its paved paths and well-maintained gardens, often provides more accessible options for families with very young children or strollers. It's always a good idea to check specific route details for elevation and surface type.

Yes, parking is generally available. Many trails, especially those associated with Swarthmore College and the Crum Woods, have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the specific trailhead information for the route you plan to hike to confirm parking availability.

Swarthmore is accessible by public transport, particularly via SEPTA Regional Rail. The Swarthmore station is centrally located, making it convenient to reach the college campus and nearby trailheads on foot. This allows for easy access to many of the family-friendly hiking options.

No, permits are generally not required to hike the family-friendly trails in Swarthmore, including those within the Crum Woods and Scott Arboretum. These natural areas are open to the public for recreational use.

The trails in Swarthmore are rich with natural beauty and points of interest. You'll encounter the scenic Crum Creek, which winds through the woods, and can spot diverse flora and fauna. The White Trail offers a great experience within the Crum Woods. The Scott Arboretum itself is a living museum with over 4,000 different kinds of plants and numerous award-winning collections. You might also discover the Cadwalader Tract, a beautiful forested area.

Yes, there are several excellent circular routes that are perfect for families. For example, the Crum Woods – Crumhenge loop from Swarthmore is an easy 3.4 km (2.1 miles) loop that takes you through the beautiful Crum Woods, offering a complete and engaging experience without retracing your steps.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful and natural setting of the Crum Woods, the well-maintained paths within the Scott Arboretum, and the overall accessibility of the trails for families. Many appreciate the blend of natural beauty and educational opportunities.

Many trails in Swarthmore, particularly within the Crum Woods, are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to maintain the natural environment for everyone. Specific rules might apply in certain areas of the Scott Arboretum, so look for signage.

A great starting point for families is the Valley Walk: Crum Woods. This easy route covers about 4.3 km (2.7 miles) and offers a pleasant journey through the scenic Crum Woods, providing a wonderful introduction to the area's natural beauty.

The duration varies depending on the trail's length and your family's pace. Many of the easy family-friendly routes, like the Crum Woods – Crum Woods Trails loop from Nether Providence Township, which is about 5.6 km (3.5 miles), can be completed in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing for stops and exploration. Shorter loops might take less than an hour.