4 Kid-friendly Hikes in Fairmount Park

by Melissa Romero on March 19, 2021

Lansdowne Glen

1

This is a short and sweet trail that loops around the Lansdowne Creek on the grounds of the Fairmount Park Horticulture Center. Featuring slightly rolling hills, you'll meander through the recently restored forest and likely spot a variety of birds and other wildlife along the way. The iconic treehouse Pavilion in the Trees makes for a great pitstop to picnic or rest your legs.

Terrain: Soft-surface
Level: Easy, some slightly rolling hills
Length: 0.7 miles
Where to start: There are multiple trailheads – look for the fencing surrounding the trailhead. The yellow gates can also be opened!

View Site

Trolley Trail

2

The 4.5-mile Trolley Trail travels the route of the former Fairmount Park Trolley line that operated through Fairmount Park from 1896 to 1946. You'll see remnants of the old trolley line, including tunnel bridges and stroll along babbling creeks. Just note that this is a multi-use trail so keep an eye out for bicyclists.

Terrain: Gravel and soft surface
Level: Moderate to difficult, with hills
Length: 4.5 miles
Where to start: Park by the Chamounix Equestrian Center, where kids will be able to see horses. Then make your way to the trailhead by Chamounix Hostel and explore as much of the Trolley Trail as your family likes.

View Site

Concourse Lake

3

Concourse Lake in West Fairmount Park is a 14-acre Philadelphia Native Plant Park that features 142 native trees of 24 various species and 503 shrubs of 24 different species. There is a paved walking path around the entire lake as well as benches for rest, contemplation, and bird watching.

Feel free to download these free nature activities to enjoy at Concourse Lake!

Terrain: Paved
Level:Easy, flat
Length: 0.6 miles
Where to start: There's parking at Belmont Ave. and S. Concourse Dr.

View Site

Boxers' Trail

4

The Boxers’ Trail is a 3.8-mile trail with wooded and paved paths that winds through East Fairmount Park, along Randolph Creek, and past some of the Historic Houses of Fairmount Park. Boxers' Trail creates unique views overlooking the Schuylkill River and provides access points to both the Schuylkill River and Fairmount Park for neighboring communities.

Terrain: Gravel and paved
Level: Easy to moderate, some rugged hills
Length: 3.8 miles
Where to start: There are multiple trailheads, but the Boxers' Trail Gateway at Dauphin and Greenland is a great and educational starting point, highlighting Philly's boxing history and some boxing moves the whole family can try out. Another starting point option is by Mount Pleasant Mansion at 3800 Mt. Pleasant Drive. You can walk behind the mansion for access to the Boxers' Trail.

View Site