The best walks and hikes around Clifton Heights

The Wetland Loop Trail offers a delightful journey through the diverse wetland areas of the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum in Philadelphia. You'll follow a gentle singletrack path, providing an intimate experience with the local ecosystem. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, especially around the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge Impoundment, which is a fantastic spot for eagle watching.

This easy hike covers 3.5 miles (5.6 km) with a negligible 28 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for nearly everyone and taking approximately 1 hour and 24 minutes to complete. It's a family-friendly option that connects to larger trail networks like the East Coast Greenway, offering flexibility for longer outings if desired.

This trail provides a peaceful, green oasis that feels a world away from the nearby urban bustle of Philadelphia. It's an excellent opportunity to observe abundant birdlife and experience a thriving wetland environment, making it a notable escape for nature lovers and a great introduction to the refuge's natural beauty.

The Springfield Trail offers a delightful immersion in nature, winding through wooded areas and past small waterfalls. You'll encounter diverse plant life, including massive tulip poplars and impressive beech trees, creating a serene escape within Smedley Park. The route follows tributaries like Whiskey Run and Lownes Run, providing picturesque water crossings and a blend of forest and suburban landscapes.

For those planning a visit, the Springfield Trail is easily accessible with 13 recognized trailheads, each featuring informative signs and maps. The trail is generally well-maintained, making it a local favorite for its peaceful environment. If you're wondering about Springfield Trail dog friendly options, leashed dogs are permitted on the East and North sections, so bring your furry friend along.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Springfield Trail boasts historical significance, passing remnants of old paper mills and the homes of their workers. This loop, originally blazed in 1969, has evolved over time, offering a unique glimpse into the region's past while providing a refreshing break from daily life in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.

The Valley Walk: Crum Woods offers a delightful escape into one of Delaware County's last remaining forested areas, perfect for a quick nature fix. This easy hiking route follows the winding Crum Creek, immersing you in lush, biodiverse woodland where you'll spot soaring tulip trees and white oaks. Keep an eye out for the intriguing Crumhenge, a circular arrangement of massive boulders, which adds a unique touch to the natural scenery.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the woods are open from sunup to sundown with no permits or fees needed. Parking is readily available at the Scott Entrance Garden and other Swarthmore College lots. The trail is dog-friendly, provided your furry friend stays on a leash, and while it's generally easy, be prepared for varied terrain including roots, rocks, and potential mud after rainfall.

This 2.7-mile (4.3 km) trail, with a gentle 186 feet (57 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 9 minutes to complete, making it an ideal choice for a family-friendly outing or a beginner hiking route. The Crum Woods serve as a living classroom for Swarthmore College, highlighting its rich ecological significance and extensive biodiversity, making it more than just a walk in the park.

The Delco Woods Loop is an easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hike with just 132 feet (40 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 54 minutes to complete. This route guides you through a delightful mix of undeveloped forest, wetlands, and meadows, offering a refreshing escape into nature. You'll encounter frequent creek crossings and some "flowy singletrack" sections with roots, giving you a real feel for the diverse terrain within Delaware County's newest and largest park. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you wander through the dense forests.

Planning your visit to Delco Woods means stepping into a park that's actively evolving. While the trail is already a great option, future developments include a paved "Woodland Loop Trail" to improve accessibility for users with wheelchairs or strollers, alongside upgrades to parking and restrooms. The park is committed to preserving 90 percent of its existing forest, balancing conservation with enhanced recreational opportunities.

This trail stands out as a significant investment in open space for the community, transforming the former Don Guanella property into a public park after years of advocacy. It's a testament to the region's commitment to providing convenient natural preserves within a bustling area. The Delco Woods Loop is an excellent choice for beginners or families looking for an accessible and engaging outdoor experience.