The lowest reach of the Wissahickon is lined with magic as it heads into the Schuylkill. This hike sews together geography, industrial history, mystic monks, Norman Rockwell, and a park that doesn’t exist yet with the same thread. Total length is around 4.5 miles and 2.5 hours; there are some challenging hills, so bundle up, bring water (and a snack), and wear sturdy boots, ready to hit the trail.

We’ll meet at 10am at the Fairmount Park parking lot at 4900 Ridge Avenue, next to the Wissahickon Transportation Center. Ride your bike—it’s right where the Schuylkill River and Wissahickon Bike Trails come together. Ride the SEPTA Manayunk/Norristown Line—trains from Center City arrive at Wissahickon station just up the hill at 9:48am. Ride a bus—11 bus lines stop at the Wissahickon Transportation Center next door. Or drive—it’s a parking lot!