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Print Friendly MapLocated in Media Borough in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, Ridley Creek State Park encompasses over 2,600 acres of woodlands and meadows. The park is only 16 miles from Center City, Philadelphia, but feels remarkably remote. Within the park you'll find a 5-mile paved, multi-use trail along Sycamore Mills and Forge roads that is open to walkers, joggers, cyclists and cross-country skiers.
Traveling along the tranquil, woodsy route, you'll come across numerous picnic areas as well as beautiful waterfalls located in stunning natural settings. In addition, there are over 13 miles of hiking trails, as well as almost 5 miles of horseback riding paths. Be sure to explore the formal gardens, located near the park office, which are a popular attraction and wedding site.
The Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation is also located on the park grounds. A working farm for over 300 years, the plantation reflects life on a Delaware County farm prior to the American Revolution.
The main entrance to Ridley Creek State Park is located at the intersection of Gradyville Road and Sandy Flash Drive in Newtown Square. Parking can be found throughout the park.
Trail was great! Definitely glad I went clockwise as the downhill on the 2nd half was a huge relief!!! The Blue Herron was definitely putting on a show!!!
Ended the whole day!
Woods, river, sun, shade, some hills, and wildlife, this trail has it all. A short 4.8 mile loop but the hills will get your heart pumping. Fortunately, you’ll have plenty of reasons to stop. We did. Sneaks off and whole family was walking through babbling brooks no deeper than knee high. Great experience all around and worth repeating.
Close to Philly - great get-away for all ages; bike path is paved; many hiking trails off the paved path; small dam with waterfall; some picnic areas; lots of hills.
Very level well kept and scenic, be prepared to see wildlife. My last trip I even saw a gardener snake.
The whole park is beautiful - I was here for a long run and really pleased with how much there was to take in... beautiful fields and farms, a large creek that I saw a handful of folks fishing in in their waders, woods with hiking trails. I ran the paved loop a couple of times - I believe it's about 5 miles long. The only down side is that there are some serious cyclists who use the path as well as families pushing babies in strollers - nothing wrong with that at all (fun that it appeals to everyone!) but worth noting for folks who don't want to keep their head on a bit of a swivel while they walk/run/ride.
Ridley Creek State Park is a wonderful place to visit. There are so many different trails to explore, both paved and unpaved. If you really adventurous you can even head over to the horse trails. I visit with the dogs 2-3 times a week. Hope to see you soon.
We had a lovely hike at Ridley. Clean, well-marked trail, not too challenging but not flat. Did a good six miles with plenty of trails to explore for next time. Had no trouble parking near the Mansion, which was really lovely and the trail looped nicely. Quite a few picnic areas and restrooms, which is always nice to have. Roughly 30 minutes drive from Center City Philadelphia. Next time we'll head out around sunrise so we can catch the critters.
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