State: PA Length: 8.4 miles Surface: Asphalt
The 202 Parkway Trail, part of The Circuit (Greater Philadelphia's trail network) connects three towns—Montgomery, Warrington, and Doylestown—on its 9-mile route paralleling the scenic byway. The paved 12-foot-wide pathway is separated from the roadway by split-rail fences and grassy strips, and offers numerous access points and ample parking. Some rolling hills can be expected, as well as views of farmland and wooded areas through Bucks and Montgomery counties.
State: PA Length: 1.9 miles Surface: Gravel
The Angelica Creek Trail, in Reading's suburbs, begins at a scenic stretch of the Schuylkill River Trail, then goes south along the river a short distance before heading northwest toward Angelica Creek Park and Alvernia University. The park's wetlands are a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The trail then follows Angelica Creek through the Kenhorst Borough down to the KenGrill Recreation Center. It may one day continue south to the Nolde Forest or west to Shillington Memorial Park, connecting even more recreational amenities.
Rail-Trail
State: NJ Length: 7.56 miles Surface: Asphalt
The 7.5-mile Atlantic County Bikeway offers a relaxing escape from the crush of traffic surrounding Atlantic City, the beachfront gaming and resort town. The trail is situated 9 miles west of Atlantic City, near the nexus of the heavily traveled Atlantic City Expressway and the Garden State Parkway. Quieter two-lane roads paralleling each end of the bikeway provide convenient trail access. Wide swaths of mowed grass flank the clean, well-designed trail. Strategically planted trees provide a welcome buffer from the roads, and the 15 secondary road crossings are clearly marked for trail users and motorists. The trail periodically curves around utility poles, incorporating overhead electric lines into the design. Starting at the Shore Mall, the trail passes through a corridor of trees. About 0.5 mile from the start, the trail runs between Reega Avenue to the north and West Jersey Avenue to the south. The adjoining landscape is a mixture of residential neighborhoods and undeveloped woodlands. A few benches make great rest spots, but places to stock up on supplies are scarce. Be sure to bring your own food and water.
State: PA Length: 0 miles Surface:
In Berks County, feasibility work has been started to design a trail section that will connect French Creek State Park to the Schuylkill River Trail. This is part of a Concept Plan for a trail called The Big Woods Trail that will connect the Schuylkill River Trail to the Boars Back Trail, including its path through Yelenoc, French Creek State Park, Hopewell Furnace and Warwick Township.
State: NJ Length: 2.7 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Blackwood Railroad Trail is a paved, 2.67-mile-long bicycle/pedestrian path in Blackwood, Gloucester Township. The bikeway is constructed on an abandoned railroad right-of-way and connects neighborhoods with schools and recreational facilities. One of the trail's highlights is the restored railroad caboose adjacent to the right-of-way near West Church Street. The trail begins at Brown and East Atlantic avenues, where there is limited space to park cars. The Blackwood Railroad Trail passes through a wooded area before going under New Jersey Route 42, also know as the North-South Freeway. After crossing Clementon Avenue, the trail enters the woods again. Once out of the woods, Washington Avenue is on the right and a ball field and play lot are on the left. Now running parallel to West Railroad Avenue, the trail passes a large athletic complex with three baseball fields. The trail continues past residential neighborhoods before crossing Elaine Avenue and ending at Main Street by Grenloch Lake.
State: PA Length: 29.7 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt, Grass, Gravel
The Blue Marsh Lake Multi-Use Trail loops around a manmade reservoir just outside of Reading in southeastern Pennsylvania. The trail has a mixture of surfaces (hard-packed dirt, grass, gravel and abandoned roads) with some single-tracking and climbs that make it best suited for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. You'll travel through open fields and woodlands and enjoy spectacular views of the lake. Bird watching is popular on the trail, especially during the fall's hawk migration. As a recreational hotspot, you'll also find many amenities, including picnic areas, food concession stands, a small beach (swimming allowed) and boat launches; restrooms can be found at the lake's visitor's center. On the eastern end of the lake, just off Palisade Drive, a connection to the 6-mile Union Canal Trail can take travelers into the city. Or trail-goers can opt to hop on an on-road section of the Schuylkill River Trail from here, which will eventually stretch nearly 130 miles from Pottsville to Philadelphia.
State: PA Length: 2.5 miles Surface: Asphalt
Since it opened as a railroad spur in the 1800s, this pretty trail has always been about connections. In 1834 the Philadelphia and Trenton Railroad launched the spur to carry goods from Bristol, Pennsylvania, then a bustling little port where the Delaware division of the Pennsylvania canal system met the tidewater of the Delaware River. The canal still exists in Bristol, but the original main line of the Philadelphia and Trenton railroad was relocated in 1882. That line became Amtrak's New York to Washington corridor, one of the most heavily traveled passenger railroad routes in the country. Conrail donated the old spur line to the town of Bristol, and the trail opened in 1980. The path incorporates the rail corridor and some of the former canal towpath, carrying trail users to the Bristol Marsh, a unique and sensitive freshwater habitat. Traversing downtown Bristol, this residential trail eventually will provide public access to the Delaware River and waterfront at the end of Green Lane. This smooth asphalt trail also connects with nearby ball fields, grassy parks, retirement communities and an elementary school.
State: NJ Length: 3.7 miles Surface: Cinder, Dirt, Grass, Gravel
This is a pleasant, flat trail that parallels the Capoolong Creek.
State: DE, MD Length: 16 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
Groundbreaking for the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal began in July 2012 in St. Georges, Delaware, to mark the start of construction on the initial phase of the shared-use recreational trail. The C&D will eventually connect the Delaware River, just south of Delaware City, DE, to the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. The north and south banks of the canal include more than 5,100 acres of protected lands, managed by the Delaware Divisions of Fish and Wildlife and Parks and Recreation. The canal itself is managed by the US Corps of Engineers. More information, including background on the canal, a map, and directions, can be found on www.gorp.com. You can also e-mail Delaware State Parks at parkinfo@dnrec.state.de.us.
State: PA Length: 6.7 miles Surface:
The Chester Creek Rail Trail is being developed along the Chester-Creek Branch rail line between the Caleb Pusey Plantation in Upland and the intersection with the SEPTA R3 line in Wawa. Phase I of the trail, between Lenni Rd. and Creek Rd. is expected to be completed in spring of 2011.
State: PA Length: 6.4 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
The Chester Valley Trail is still in planning and development stage with three separate sections built and useable. Chester County has two sections built, one of crushed stone and another along the Main Street Shopping Mall at RT 100 and Commerce Rd that is paved. The Montgomery County Section was built during the reconstruction of RT 202 and includes a bridge that crosses over the PA Turnpike I-76. The Chester Valley Trail now extends from Phoenixville Pike, east to Route 29. When completed the trail will extend from Downingtown, PA to Norristown, PA where it will connect to the Schuylkill River and Perkiomen Trails. By 2008, 5.5 miles of this extension trail are expected to be completed in Montgomery County.
State: DE Length: 1.3 miles Surface: Concrete
The Christina Riverwalk is short (1.3 miles) but pleasant pathway along the Christina River, between the Russell Peterson Wildlife Refuge and the end of S. Popular Street, just beyond Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park. The trail offers access to the Shipyard Shops and downtown Wilmington. It's nicely landscaped and passes through small parks where you can stop to sit on a bench along the river. Hare Pavilion overlooks the Christina River at the foot of Old West Street and is a nice gathering place.
State: PA Length: 1 miles Surface: Asphalt
This trail is not offically part of the Lancaster County Park system. It runs next to the Conestoga River at Sunnyside. The one end of the trail is at Lancaster County Central Park. Although there is vehicular traffic in the Park it is great for cycling or hiking. This is the article in the Intelligencer Journal from July 20, 2010. http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/267800
State: NJ Length: 5.15 miles Surface: Asphalt
The 346-acre Cooper River Park is found on both the north and south shores of Cooper River Lake. The urban park offers bike and pedestrian paths, as well as other recreational facilities. There is a 3.8-mile loop from Cuthbert to Route 130 and another 1.35-mile path from Cuthbert to Grove Street. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.
The proposed Cresheim Valley Rail-Trail will connect neighborhoods of Mt. Airy, Chestnut Hill, Wyndmoor, Cedarbrook and Laverock with the Wishickon Valley and the Schuylkill River Trail. The proposed route follows an existing PECO right-of-way (formerly a bed of the Pennsylvania Railroad). This is an all volunteer community based initiative. To learn more about the project and view a map of the proposed route please visit the project website.
State: PA Length: 3 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Cross County Trail runs for 3 miles between the Schuylkill River Trail in Conshohocken and the village of Plymouth Meeting. The trail links suburban shopping with neighborhoods and mostly parallels a short section of I-476. Plans call for extending the trail to a total of 17.5 miles, crossing Montgomery County on a north–south link and connecting with other regional trail systems.
State: PA Length: 2 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
The Cynwyd Heritage Trail is a 2-mile linear park and rail-to-trail that connects Lower Merion Township to the Manayunk bridge over the Schuylkill River just outside Philadelphia. More than 30,000 hours of volunteer labor have created the trail and plans are being developed to restore the Manyunk bridge to accommodate pedestrians and bicycles crossing into Manyunk and linking with the Schuylkill River Trail, providing direct trail access to the city.
State: PA Length: 60 miles Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt
ATTENTION: Because of flood damage to the canal towpath, the section between Easton and Wy-Hit-Tuk Park is closed until further notice. Repairs are scheduled to begin in fall 2012 and continue through fall 2013. For updates check the park website (http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/findapark/delawarecanal/index.htm) under the "Advisories" tab. The Delaware Canal Towpath, which extends from Bristol to Easton, is the only continuous intact canal remaining from the historic canal-building era of the early and mid-1800s. Through its connection with the Lehigh Navigation Canal at Easton, the Delaware Canal helped to develop the anthracite coal industry in the Upper Lehigh Valley. In 1940 the canal system became a state park, and in 1988 Congress officially recognized the system's importance to the economic evolution of America by establishing the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. Today the 60-mile Delaware Canal Towpath, once trod by teams of mules pulling cargo-laden boats, is one of four named trails that make up the 165-mile D&L Trail, the backbone of the National Heritage Corridor and the longest publicly owned trail remaining in the state. Other trails contained in the D&L are: the Lehigh Gorge State Park Trail, the Lehigh Canal North, and Lehigh Canal South. Flood damage in 2004 and 2006 closed entire sections of the trail while significant repairs were made. The trail reopened in July 2010. Most of the repair focused on the locks and canal itself. The trail surface remains bumpy from exposed tree roots; users should expect rough conditions. A variety of looping routes can be followed usi
State: PA Length: 13 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone, Dirt
If you feel like a stroll down the lazy river, then this is the trail for you. This peaceful trail follows the canal and Delaware River for almost its entire length. This trail offers a variety of path surfaces—wide paved asphalt, wide crushed stone and single-track packed dirt. And its meandering route through the trees makes it delightful. You'll likely see lots of geese and ducks, along with some canoes and kayaks, in the canal. The 150-mile Delaware and Lehigh Canal Navigation System, built from 1817 to 1845, brought anthracite coal from the east central portion of Pennsylvania to various parts of the East Coast. With the building of the canal, several canal towns sprang up. There is interesting history along this trail: Easton hosted one of only three public readings of the Declaration of Independence, and during colonial times, the Liberty Bell rested secretly in Allentown. In the future, all 150 miles of the canal system, from Wilkes-Barre to Bristol, will be converted to trail.
State: NJ Length: 68 miles Surface: Crushed Stone, Gravel
Note: Periodically parts of the trail become impassable from floods and other damage. For updates on trail conditions, visit the Canal State Park website. The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail follows the towpath of the canal, which was built in the early 1830s as a transportation corridor between Philadelphia and New York. Along the route you'll find 19th-century bridges and bridge-tender houses, remnants of locks, cobblestone spillways and hand built stone-arch culverts. You can even rent canoes at Griggstown and Princeton if you prefer the water route. The upper portion of the feeder canal follows the Delaware River through many old towns with historical significance. In Trenton, the U-shaped trail has a gap between Mulberry Street and Southard Street. South of Trenton, a disconnected segment runs between John A. Roebling Memorial Park and Hamilton Marshes.
State: NJ Length: 5 miles Surface: Gravel, Sand
The Elephant Swamp Trail is built on top of the former railroad bed that once ran from Glassboro to Bridgeton, NJ. Elk Township maintains the easement through Elephant Swamp, and the trail passes among streams, wetlands and farm fields from the Elk Township Recreation Complex in Aura to the baseball fields in Elmer. The northern portion of the trail is well maintained and is used by walkers and cyclists. Although ATVs and dirt bikes are prohibited, you may encounter them. A useful brochure, available from the link under "Related Links" to the right, identifies significant plant and animals species trail users might see. The gravel trail can become muddy in places and sport large puddles or be overgrown with grass and weeds, especially around Monroeville. From Monroeville Road to Isles Road the trail is in good shape; however, from Isles Road to Elmer it can be poor—more ATVs and a less-than-perfect surface. Trail users will pass through rural portions of Gloucester and Salem counties, amid tracts of forest and wetlands; farms are prevalent. A stone marker dating from 1949 is visible at the county line. The trail crosses four roads: Swedesboro Road (Rt 538), Monroeville Road, Island Road and Isles Road. Swedesboro Road is a major thoroughfare, and though the other roads are not as busy, use caution at all crossings.
State: PA Length: 23.3 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
The Enola Low-Grade Trail (formerly the Atglen-Susquehanna Trail) is open for 23 miles between Safe Harbor and the tracks near Upper Valley Road in Atglen. Though technically the corridor is open, each township manages its own section and trail conditions may vary among them. In some places there is heavy ballast and wide tires are recommended if you're biking. In other places the trail has been improved with crushed limestone. The trail follows an abandoned right-of-way of the old Enola Low Grade Railroad, one of several branch lines of the Pennsylvania Railroad that linked Atglen with the Harrisburg area. Between Safe Harbor and Harrisburg, the rail line followed the Susquehanna River. The Martic Forge trestle is currently closed but there are plans to renovate it as a crossing. You can detour around the trestle by taking SR 324 (Marticville Road) south to River Road and the turn onto Colmanville Church Road. There is also a detour around Route 222 near Quarryville; plans are in the works to build a pedestrian bridge over the highway. You will encounter other road crossings where tunnels or bridges have been ordered to be removed. For trail updates and conditions call the local township managers.
State: NJ Length: 4 miles Surface: Cinder, Dirt, Sand
Estell Manor Park, 3.5 miles south of Mays Landing, New Jersey, has an extensive system of trails for mountain biking, hiking and walking, and includes a 1.8-mile, fully accessible boardwalk that takes visitors through wetlands and coastal forest and offering views of the South River. The 1,700-acre park has an interesting history, first home to Native Americans then a glassworks factory in the 19th century, followed by a munitions plant during World War I. Fortunately, the native habitat has returned and includes a fantastic array of flora and fauna. In addition to recreation on the trails, the park offers boating, fishing, camping, picnicking, a ball field and a nature center. They also have a host of outdoor programs, and they lend out sporting equipment free of charge (bikes and helmets, soccer balls, softball equipment, Frisbees, jump ropes, horseshoes). Warning: Shotgun hunting of deer takes place on the park's northern end; signs are posted to warn visitors during the fall season. The park is open year-round 7:30 a.m. to dusk.
State: PA Length: 2.3 miles Surface: Cinder, Crushed Stone, Gravel
The Exeter Scenic River Trail follows the north shore of the Schuylkill River. The tree-lined route provides views of the river and runs to the Klapperthal Trail at the base of Neversink Mountain.
State: NJ Length: 4.4 miles Surface: Dirt
Historic Smithville is listed on the National and New Jersey Registers of Historic Places. From its beginnings as a small mill town on the Rancocas Creek, Smithville became one of New Jersey's major woodworking industrial areas between the 1860s and 1920s. The park features many cultural landmarks and natural habitats, including an historic district and museum, as well as five different hike and bike trails of different lengths. Though equestrians and mountain bikers are welcome, some trails are for walking only and signs are posted. The trails pass among a variety of terrain, and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are winter options. The park is home to lots of wildlife, including deer, turkey, fox, beaver and waterfowl. The park offers fishing, canoeing, picnicking, playgrounds and a butterfly garden. Historic Smithville Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk.
State: DE Length: 1.76 miles Surface: Asphalt
The James F. Hall rail-with-trail packs a lot into a short stretch: Its paved surface is great for bicycling, inline skating and strolling, and there are multiple playgrounds, picnic areas and access points along the route. Best of all, this urban trail never crosses a road, so you can coast uninterrupted for its entire length. The trail also offers alternative transportation benefits, connecting Newark neighborhoods with a regional transit station, the University of Delaware and shopping centers. If you're a train aficionado, it's almost guaranteed that you'll spot a car riding along the adjacent rail corridor, used by Amtrak, CSX and the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). But you won't get too close to the trains, since a large fence separates the trail from the active rails. Families with young children will especially enjoy this route, which passes three playgrounds featuring swings, slides, baseball diamonds and soccer fields, plus basketball, handball and tennis courts. The trail also crosses streams and wetlands and runs through a semi-forested area. Police call boxes are provided every 0.1 mile, and the trail is lit for use after dark.
State: NJ Length: 0.51 miles Surface: Asphalt
The John N. Balis Bikeway is a half mile paved trail along a former rail corridor that now serves as an electrical transmission right of way in the suburban community of Runnemede. The southern end of the trail begins at the northeast corner of an overflow parking lot for the Philly Diner and Sports Bar at the intersection of East Clements Bridge Road and Bowers Avenue. The trail heads north through residential neighborhoods to Smith Lane where there is a large sports complex featuring a number of baseball fields. Only one street, 3rd Avenue bisects the trail. All of the other side streets, 1st Avenue through 7th Avenue, dead end on the east side of the trail. However, paved side trials connect each of these streets to the John N. Balis Bikeway.
State: NJ Length: 1.9 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt, Grass, Gravel
The Johnson Trolley Line has two sections, north and south, which are split by Interstate 95; there is talk of building an overpass to link the two segments. The Trenton-Princeton Traction Company ran the old trolley, known as the "Fast Line," through this corridor from around 1901 until 1940. The fare was only 10¢. The Johnson Trolley Line Trail occupies a portion of right-of-way abandoned by the former trolley company. North Section: This section runs 1 mile through a tree-lined neighborhood, between Gordon Avenue and Denow Road. Just south of Gordon Road, you can access another trail to Village Park (to the northwest) or the Lawrenceville School path (southeast). South Section: This section is just under 1 mile and follows a portion of Johnson Avenue from Shababunk Creet to I-95. A newly constructed section from Eggert's Crossing Road to I-95 now includes a bridge over Five Mile Run.
State: PA Length: 1.8 miles Surface:
Part of the planned 11 mile North Delaware Riverfront, the Kensington and Tacony Trail (K& T Trail) is planned for construction in 2011. Begins at Arsenal Boat Launch and ends just south of Tacony Boat Launch - per Carol Myers with Delaware River City Corp (DRCC) who is developing the trail.
State: NJ Length: 3.7 miles Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt, Gravel
The Kingston Branch Loop Trail is a trip up one side and down the other of the scenic tree-lined Delaware and Raritan Canal. The eastern half of the loop follows the bed of the Rocky Hill Railroad and Transportation Company, which began operation between Kingston and Rocky Hill in 1870. The remainder of the loop travels the dirt and gravel canal towpath. From the parking lot on the north side of State Route 27/Lincoln Highway, the crushed stone rail-trail travels 1.75 miles to State Route 518/Georgetown-Franklin Turnpike. Walk across the bridge over the canal on the narrow sidewalk, and turn left for the return trip south on the canal towpath. The entire route is tree-lined and remains fairly cool on even the hottest summer days. With the peaceful Delaware and Raritan Canal in view at all times, you will bear witness to its popularity with boaters, birders and anglers. Canoes, kayaks and small craft with electric motors are permitted along this section of the watered canal. Bass, sunfish, perch and annually stocked trout are just some of the fish in the canal. On your way back to the trailhead on Route 27, take time to explore the restored Lock #8, the locktender's house and the site of an old mill. The charming village of Kingston contains five historic districts worth exploring for an afternoon.
State: NJ Length: 1.8 miles Surface: Concrete, Crushed Stone, Dirt, Gravel
The Landsdown Trail runs 1.8 miles between Lower Landsdown Road and W. Main in Clinton. The trail passes among open fields, woodlands and wetlands and provides access to the South Branch of the Raritan River for those wishing to drop a line (state license required). The trail runs through part of the South Branch Reservation, 1,000+ acres of wildlife habitat and recreation. The trail follows part of an old rail corridor once used as a spur for the Lehigh Valley Railroad, which was built in 1881. The line was mainly for passenger rail but goods such as graphite and milled grains were also transported through here. The old trail station at the northern end of the trail was converted into a lumber store.
State: NJ Length: 18.1 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete, Crushed Stone, Dirt, Grass
The Lawrence Hopewell Trail currently runs for nearly 12 miles on public and private lands in Lawrence and Hopewell townships, Mercer County, New Jersey. The bicycle and pedestrian recreational trail will actually be a loop when completed and provides a valuable transportation corridor for the communities it serves. The trail links business districts, parks, schools, historic villages, playing fields and woodlands and uses existing streets. At the Lawrence Township end, the trail links to the Delware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail. The LHT is broken into segments, each with its own unique historic and natural features. The open sections lie mainly on the west side of the loop, with one small open section on the east side of the loop. You can read more about them on the LHT website (link to the right under "Related Links"). A little more than 8 additional miles of trail are expected to be completed by 2012.
State: DE Length: 7.2 miles Surface: Dirt
The Little Jersey Trail loops through the park on packed earth surface. The trail is wide to accommodate shared-use among hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Trail users will traverse forested areas and the edges of fields and get a full appreciation for the park's natural features.
State: DE Length: 17.5 miles Surface: Dirt
Lums Pond State Park is built around the largest freshwater pond in Delaware. The park features excellent fishing, sports facilities, hiking trails and more on its 1790 acres on the north side of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. Covering 200 acres, Lums Pond itself offers a sandy swimming beach (open Wednesdays through Sundays in summer), and boat rentals provide water-bound recreation in the summer months. A boat launching ramp and two piers allow easy access to the water. Hikers have the opportunity to explore a variety of habitats along the 7.5 mile Swamp Forest Trail circling the pond. Discover the forest in a unique way on the Sensory Trail, which encourages the use of senses other than sight. Lums also features over 10 miles of multi-purpose trails (horses, bikes, hikers, and snowmobiles). The Whale Wallow Nature Center hosts a variety of programs for visitors during the summer season (Nature Center will be open daily from noon-6 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day.). For outdoor dining, picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, and three pavilions can be reserved for larger groups. For more information, please see the Trail Website or e-mail Delaware State Parks at parkinfo@dnrec.state.de.us.
State: NJ Length: 0.75 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Merchantville Bike Path is a short, paved trail in Merchantville Borough. For more information, contact the borough at 856-662-2474, extension 101.
State: DE Length: 1 miles Surface: Concrete
The Mispillion River Greenway is located on South Washington Street along the Mispillion River. The greenway provides a peaceful view of the lovely Mispillion River. The greenway is surfaced with brick and concrete. For more information contact the Milford Parks & Recreation Department at 302-422-1104.
State: NJ Length: 6.36 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt, Gravel
The Monroe Township Bikeway is a 6.36-mile connection between the suburban communities of Glassboro and Williamstown. In Glassboro the trail passes through the dense forest of the Glassboro Fish and Wildlife Management Area and then transitions through quiet residential neighborhoods and community open spaces. The trail follows the former right-of-way of the Pennsylvania-Reading Seashore Line that served the New Jersey shore points of Atlantic City, Ocean City, Wildwood and Cape May. The Seashore Line did not follow a stream valley like so many eastern rail corridors; the result is a trail that is arrow-straight for long distances. Beginning in Glassboro the trail cuts east and passes a few commercial and industrial properties before it enters a hardwood forest within the Glassboro Fish and Wildlife Management Area. The heavy tree canopy helps keep this section of the trail cooler during summer. The forest thins out to a single-file line of trees on both sides before crossing Monroe Avenue. After the street crossing, the trail returns to a heavily wooded forest for the next 1.5 miles. The Monroe Township Bikeway emerges from the forest at the edge of a residential neighborhood. The route becomes more open, as it passes residential neighborhoods for about 0.5 mile before returning to forested shade. After crossing North Tuckahoe Road, you pass the Williamstown Middle School complex, with ball fields and a football stadium. The trail crosses Clayton Road and runs parallel to Railroad Avenue for a short distance, and you pass community ball fields. The trail reaches an unassuming end at Blue Bell Road across the street from the Williamstown Police Station. A plaque at the Williamstown end of the bikeway designates it as the George F. McDonald Sr. Memorial Bike Path. McDonald served as mayor of Williamstown from 1975 to 1978. A convenience store at the end of the trail is perfect for stocking up on refreshments before returning to Glassboro.
State: PA Length: 1.75 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
Currently a 1.75-mile section of the trail is open from 8:00 am to dusk. The trail runs parallel to Rosedale Avenue in Laureldale Borough on the former corridor of the East Penn Branch Railroad. The trail surface is made of crushed stone and provides an easy surface for walking or bicycling. Paving will begin in mid-June 2011 and take about 90 days. In addition, traffic barriers, benches and parking lots at both ends of the trail will be added.
State: PA Length: 1.2 miles Surface: Asphalt
Reading's Neversink Connector Trail is a short paved pathway that branches off the Thun Trail, a 18-mile section of the Schuylkill River Trail. It begins near the Reading Area Community College and follows the northeast bank of the Schuylkill River for about a mile to end at Heritage Park. A short spur along the south end of the college takes trail-goers to Riverfront Park and the 3rd and Spruce Recreation Center.
State: DE Length: 2.1 miles Surface: Asphalt
The New Castle Industrial Track follows an abandoned rail corridor and will eventually link New Castle, DE, with the city of Wilmington. As of spring 2012, 2 miles of the 6-mile rail-trail are complete. The trail will link with the Wilmington Riverwalk and form Delaware's segment of the East Coast Greenway.
State: DE Length: 9 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
The Northern Delaware Greenway Trail spans 9 miles of northern New Castle County from Fox Point State Park on the Delaware River to the Brandywine Creek and the City of Wilmington. This urban trail connects with Wilmington's Walkway System and links together residential communities, schools, businesses, parks and cultural sites. Just about half of the nine miles is rail-trail over a level riding surface. The rest of the trail is filled with rolling curves and short drops so leave the in-line skates at home and prepare yourself for a nice stroll or a fun bike ride with the family and friends. A map of the entire trail system is located on the Delaware Greenways web site http://www.delawaregreenways.org/maps.html
State: PA Length: 7.8 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Palmer Township Recreation Trail (a.k.a. the Towpath Bike Trail) is a terrific community asset for Palmer and Bethlehem township residents and a great destination for visitors as well. Three modes of transportation once operated on this corridor: Lehigh Canal, the Central Railroad of New Jersey and the Lehigh Valley Transit (LVT) interurban. Chartered in 1818, the privately owned canal remained in operation for 113 years, hauling anthracite coal from Mauch Chunk to the Delaware Canal at Easton. The Easton and Western branch was built in 1914 and fell into disuse in 1972. The LVT Easton line was part of a larger electric railways system that stretched from the Delaware Water Gap to near Philadelphia. Today a smooth, 8-foot-wide asphalt trail traverses the corridor in a partial loop running nearly 8 miles from Easton High School to Riverview Park. The loop is the heart of the trail. The small spur section running south from Easton Area High School in Palmer Township makes a nice connection for locals to access the trail. The spur section that runs north from the high school has been closed. Mostly tree-shaded, the trail is pretty and well maintained, with mile markers, benches and flowerbeds sprinkled throughout. Starting at the high school, you cruise down a gentle grade to Riverview Park, which lines the banks of the Lehigh River. The first mile of trail passes through neighborhoods and parks, but the path quickly becomes secluded and serene as it weaves through farmland and woodland. Around mile 5 the trail starts to loop back and runs along the river, although at this point the distance and tree cover make river views hard to see. Close to mile 6 the trail intersects with another rail-trail the D & L Trail: Lehigh Canal South, which heads south to Allentown. To stay on the towpath trail and complete the loop, bear left. At this point, you start to see the river
State: NJ Length: 0.25 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Parkside Trail is a just tiny segment of the larger Camden Greenways, a proposed system of trails currently under construction. When complete, the greenway will follow along a portion of the Delaware River, Cooper River and Newtown Creek for a total of 9 miles. For now, the Parkside Trail is only 0.25 mile long but it forms an important link between two schools and two parks.
State: PA Length: 4.1 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Peace Valley Park Hike & Bike Trail offers 4 miles of blacktop along the shores of Lake Galena, just north of Doylestown in eastern Pennsylvania. The scenic trail travels through woodlands and meadows and is generally flat, except for one hill at the northeast corner of the lake. A good place to begin is at the nature center at the eastern end of the lake. Along your journey, you'll find an abundance of recreational opportunities, including playgrounds, fishing, boating, picnicking and nature hikes. Note that some areas of the park are restricted to the public for wildlife preservation. Keep a lookout for birds; more than 250 species have been sighted here, including cardinals, woodpeckers and finches. You also might see deer, groundhogs and muskrats. At the end of the trail, you can continue the circuit around the lake on Creek Road, a lightly trafficked roadway.
State: NJ Length: 1.6 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
NOTE: Effective 1-30-2012, the trail is temporarily closed. The trail and the station are fenced off until further notice. Please abide by all closures. Located about 25 miles east of Philadelphia, the Pemberton Rail-Trail is an excellent example of grassroots activism resulting in the creation of a community-based rail-trail. The Pemberton Rotary Club was largely responsible for creating the trail, having taken the leadership role in planning, developing and maintaining the trail. The trail begins at Hanover Street by a restored railroad station that serves as a museum. Several old train cars and assorted other railroad artifacts are found here. The trail is wooded on both sides and crosses a stream at about the midpoint.
State: PA Length: 12.4 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt
The Pennypack Trail is a 2.4-mile rail-trail located mostly in Lorimer Park in Montgomery County and connected to Pennpack Park in Philadelphia County. Converted from the old Fox Chase-Newton Branch line, this trail runs from Rockledge Borough on the Philadelphia/Montgomery County boundary, north to Huntingdon Pike (Route 232) in Abington Township. The Pennypack Trail now seemlessly connects to Pennypack Park and a 10-mile paved trail along Pennypack Creek, leading to the waterfront of the Delaware River. You'll realize the difference between rail-trail and park trail as you come upon rolling hills and curves. Celebrating their 100th anniversary in 2005, this is one of Philadelphia residents most beloved parks with access for cyclists as well as equestrians. There are several miles of unpaved trails open to mountain bikers and equestrians. A brochure with trail map can be found here: http://trails.montcopa.org/trails/cwp/view.asp?a=1682&q=71170&trailsNav=|. An interactive map of the entire Philadelphia Park System, including Pennypack Park can be found here: http://citymaps.phila.gov/map/default.aspx.
State: PA Length: 19.5 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
The history of Perkiomen Trail railroad corridor extends more than 140 years. Founded shortly after the Civil War, the Perkiomen Railway Company started running from Oaks to Pennsburg in 1868. New transportation spurred development along the line, which then extended to Emmaus and the Lehigh Valley. In the 1920s the Perkiomen Valley was a favored vacation spot, and people used the railroad for access to recreation areas. The Reading Company bought the line in 1944, but a decline in recreational interests, suburban development on natural lands and the advent of the automobile as the favored form of transportation caused passenger trains on this route to cease operations by 1955. Much of the old railroad right-of-way has been preserved as the Perkiomen Trail, a 19.5-mile multiuse trail extending from its connection with the Schuylkill River Trail in Oaks to Green Lane Park in Green Lane. The trail passes through a rich and varied landscape, including town centers, parks and rural areas, and parallels scenic Perkiomen Creek for much of its route. Most of the trail is surfaced with cinder and packed gravel, with some paved segments. The trail is a regional access between Green Lane Park in Green Lane, Central Perkiomen Valley Park in Schwenksville and Lower Perkiomen Valley Park in Oaks, as well as two significant sites, the Mill Grove Landmark in Audubon and Pennypacker Mills Site in Schwenksville. The trail travels through serene wooded areas and rural and suburban neighborhoods, providing an everyday escape and also a versatile community transportation route. Small businesses along the trail demonstrate its immense popularity. One highlight comes near the southern end right where the trail meets up with Schuylkill River Trail. Here you can experience Valley Forge National Historic Park. In addition to enjoying a wonderful visitor center, explore the groun
State: DE Length: 2 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Pomeroy and Newark Rail Trail offers both urban connections to the University of Delaware campus, Newark Shopping Center, DART Transit Hub, and the downtown area, as well as the recreational amenities of White Clay Creek State Park.
State: NJ Length: 1 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
This community trail begins at the intersection of Main and Pearl streets in the town of Port Norris, near the mouth of the Maurice River. It connects Port Norris with Bivalve. At one time the area was a center for the oystering industry. The trail passes through a short stretch of woods before following the bank of a stream; a small bridge carries the trail across a channel. Heading south after the bridge the trail runs parallel to High Street (County 631) and terminates at Dubois Street. If you continue down High Street and turn east toward the Maurice River on Germantown Avenue, you will find a wildlife management area with a boardwalk that leads into the saltwater marsh. This area, Bivalve, is the home port of New Jersey's official tall ship, the A. J. Meerwald. Be sure to catch Delaware Bay Days Festival, hosted by the Bayshore Discovery Project, in mid-June.
State: PA Length: 4.8 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Powerline Trail in Horsham Township connects schools, parks, business centers and neighborhoods along an easement managed by PECO/Exelon. Parts of the trail have road crossings, so use caution. The trail will eventually extend west through Montgomery and Upper Gwynedd townships and east to the Pennypack Trail and Cross County Trail in Upper Moreland Township.
State: PA Length: 2.41 miles Surface: Asphalt
This 2.4-mile paved trail provides a quiet, scenic escape northwest of Philadelphia, from Encke Park at Radnor-Chester Road to the shopping center at Sugartown Road and Route 30. The trail travels mostly through wooded areas, passes near local parks and is lined with several benches. Founded in 1902, the Philadelphia and Western Railway Company (P&W) was intended to be part of Jay Gould's proposed intercontinental electric railway. Gould's grand and progressive plan was scaled back, as was the route of the P&W Trains, featuring luxurious, elaborately appointed cars. It once traveled from Philadelphia's 69th Street Station to suburban Strafford. For the first few months, the trains ran every quarter hour, with the full route taking a half hour. The line remained active until 1956, when it was replaced with bus service. In 2005 Radnor Township celebrated the opening of the multi-purpose Radnor Trail. Running through residential areas, the trail provides a popular off-road route to retail centers and schools.
From the Reading Viaduct Web page: "The Reading Viaduct Organization is a non- profit organization dedicated to the reuse of the Reading Viaduct, an elevated rail structure in Philadelphia , PA. Co-Founded by Sarah McEneaney and John Struble. "
State: DE Length: 1.4 miles Surface: Concrete
The Riverview Trail makes a loop through Fox Point State Park along the Delaware River in Wilmington. The trail circles an open field along the west bank of the river.
State: PA Length: 4.65 miles Surface: Ballast, Crushed Stone, Gravel
Sections of the Saucon Rail Trail in Hellertown and Lower Saucon Township officially opened on May 6 , 2011, with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Built on a former SEPTA line, the new sections are in Hellertown and Lower Saucon and are each about 1.4 miles long. The sections connect to the 2-mile section opened last year in Upper Saucon Township. When other sections in Upper Saucon and Coopersburg are eventually opened, the 10-foot-wide, multi-use trail will be 8 miles long. The main access points in Hellertown are the Thomas Iron Site, near Saucon Park, and Water Street Park. A map and photos are available on the trail's Facebook page.
State: PA Length: 6.3 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
The Phoenixville to Pottstown segment of the Schuylkill River Trail is being completed in stages. As of early 2012, a 1-mile segment in Phoenixville is complete as is another 5.6-mile segment stretching between Township Line Road at Cromby Road in Spring City and Linfield Road in Parker Ford. This segment of the trail will eventually continue north from Parker Ford to Pottstown. For more information and trail status updates, visit the Chester County Parks website under Related Links to the right. Visit the other Schuylkill River Trail segments: Valley Forge to Philadelphia, the Thun Trail, and the Bartram Trail.
State: PA Length: 18.3 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
The Thun Trail (pronounced "tune") is part of the Schuylkill River Trail System. Large railroad bridges, built in 1918, provide impressive views of the Schuylkill River and the surrounding hills. Paralleling Routes 422 and 724, this section of the Schuylkill River Trail offers commuters an alternate route and leisurely riders beautiful views. It is a little more than 18 miles long, and you'll likely see wildlife along the way, including deer and fox. Currently a 4-mile, on-road route connects the two developed segments of the trail. The western end between Reading and Gibraltar is 5.8 miles long, and the eastern developed trail segment 8.9 miles long. Visit the other Schuylkill River Trail segments: Valley Forge to Philadelphia, Bartram Trail, and the Phoenixville to Pottstown segment.
State: PA Length: 27 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Valley Forge to Philadelphia segment of the Schuylkill River Trail stretches 27 miles along the historic Schuylkill River, from downtown Philadelphia at the Philadelphia Museum of Art out to Montgomery County and Valley Forge National Historic Park. In Philadelphia, the trail uses Fairmount Park trails and the Manayunk Canal towpath. In Montgomery County, the trail follows a former Pennsylvania Railroad line. The trail is the spine of the Schuylkill River Heritage Corridor, a five-county area designated as both a State and National Heritage Area. Originally conceived of by the Fairmount Park Commission, the trail route grew to include many municipalities. Montgomery County constructed the trail from the Philadelphia City line to Valley Forge National Historical Park. The Chester County Department of Parks and Recreation is currently planning the section between Phoenixville and Pottstown. The Schuylkill River Greenway Association is working on the sections from the Montgomery County line to Birdsboro and from Gibraltar into Reading. And finally, the Schuylkill River Development Corporation is managing the trail construction from the Water Works in Philadelphia's Fairmount Park and along the tidal section of the Schuylkill River, known as Schuylkill Banks. The Schuylkill River Greenway Association has detailed maps of each section along with construction up-dates on their website. The river was once a major transportation resource that played a key role in the region's development. Evidence of several centuries of industrial use remain where river and canal navigation, quarrying of limestone and iron ore, and production of iron and steel have succeeded each other as mainstays of the region's economy. Today the trail is a busy commuter route during rush hour. This trail's asphalt tread is somewhat narrower than that of many of the new trails—caution, as well as rail-trail etiquette, should be heeded. This section runs parallel to the Schuylkill Ri
State: NJ Length: 10 miles Surface: Dirt
State: PA Length: 3.3 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Skippack Trail traverses a township of the same name in eastern Pennsylvania, about 40 miles northwest of Philadelphia. Its western end connects to the Perkiomen Trail, a 19-mile north-south route from Green Lane to Oaks. From there, the pathway follows the Perkiomen Creek for its first half mile before heading east past a residential area. Here, you'll head up a large hill, under a set of power lines. At about mile 2 from the Perkiomen Trail, the Skippack Trail splits; one branch goes north to the picturesque Village of Skippack. The trail's eastern end offers wide open landscapes and ends near Evansburg State Park, a scenic recreational area bisected by Skippack Creek.
State: PA Length: 1.4 miles Surface: Asphalt
The South Bethlehem Greenway is a linear park that follows the former Norfolk Southern rail line, from East 3rd Street nearly to Saucon Park. The trail parallels SR 412/Daly Ave./3rd St. for much of the way. Eventually the trail will run more than 3 miles between Union Station and Saucon Park. The trail passes the former Bethlehem Steel Corporation site, where steel stacks tower over the park's treetops. The South Bethlehem Greenway links neighborhoods with the city's business district.
State: NJ Length: 0.36 miles Surface: Asphalt
The short Stockton Station Rail-Trail runs through a city park in Camden between Westfield Avenue and Pleasant Street. The path follows an old railroad corridor, and the park itself was once the site of an apartment complex.
State: PA Length: 2.6 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Chester County Parks & Recreation Department opened this trail in 1979 on part of a former Pennsylvania Railroad right-of-way. Today the 2.6-mile trail attracts more than 125,000 visitors each year. Named for the late Robert G. Struble, a teacher, conservationist, county commissioner and Brandywine Valley Association executive director, the pretty trail parallels the East Branch of Brandywine Creek for a short distance. The trail's flat surface makes a perfect setting for amateur naturalists and a tranquil venue for joggers, bicyclists, inline skaters and cross-country skiers. Equestrians are welcome on the undeveloped sections of the trail. The trail begins right near the downtown section of the pleasant borough of Downingtown right off Norwood Road. Traveling north, the trail cuts through pleasant wooded areas, a pristine setting in this rural section of southeastern Pennsylvania. You cross only one road during this journey: Dowlin Forge Road, which doesn't see much traffic. Currently, the trail connects to the 2-mile Uwchlan Trail on the right just beyond this road crossing, which links to residential and commercial sections throughout the township. Currently the trail ends south of Marsh Creek Park in Dorlan; however, there are loose plans to develop it farther to the north.
State: NJ Length: 7 miles Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt, Gravel
DESCRIPTION: The Created by Union Forge Heritage Association in 2007,Taylor SteelWorkers Historical Greenway is a 7 mile trail that winds its way through High Bridge criss-crossing a number of historical sites and beautiful scenery. This is the perfect trail for wildlife watchers and history buffs alike. Follow the Columbia Trail for approximately 1/4 mile looking on the Right for the trailhead gate that includes a sign and entrance for the famous Lake Solitude Dam. Heading in a southeasterly direction from the Columbia Trail, this trail proceeds to the historic structures of the TISCO Complex and then onto a 100 year old truss bridge. After crossing the bridge, the trail proceeds north along the South Branch of the Raritan towards the Lake Solitude and Lake Solitude Dam (circa 1858), Solitude House Museum and the Union Iron Works ruins (circa 1742). From there the trail continues on to the entrance of the Nassau Trail, works its way to Springside Farm (Springside Lane, High Bridge) and its adjoining woods and proceeds from there to its end at Lord Amesbury's Furnace, circa 1752 , located in Clinton Township. For more information about this trail contact Union Forge Heritage Association at 908-638-3200 WILDLIFE: Bald Eagles are a familiar sight in the region. They often are easier to spot in winter when trees are bare of leaves. Check the trees along the trails; seasonal sightings include Brown Creeper, Eastern Phoebe, Ruby- and Golden-crowned Kinglets, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Palm, Pine and Yellow-rumped Warblers and Yellow-throated Vireo. Look a little deeper into the woods for Hermit and Wood Thrushes, Veery, Ovenbird and Red-eyed and Blue-headed Vireos and Pileated Woodpecker. DON'T MISS: Several miles north of High Bridge, the Columbia Trail passes over Ken Lockwood Gorge Bridge, built 80 feet above the gorge floor. This steel span was built in 1930 to replace the original wooden trestle bridge, which was the site of a memorable 1886 train wreck.
State: PA Length: 0.4 miles Surface: Asphalt
Picking up directly across Norwood Road from the Struble trail's south end point, The Lions' trail offers a half mile of paved trail winding through scenic Kardon Park with 10 acres of ponds and over 40 acres of open green space, wetlands and many trees. Kardon Park, also known as The Ponds or The Duck Pond, is an active area for biking, walking, running, fishing, bird watching, geocoaching, picnicking and inline skating. The Lions' Trail was officially dedicated in 1984, and is so named in recongnition of the park receiving it as a gift from the local Downingtown Lions Club.
State: NJ Length: 1.5 miles Surface: Sand
The 1.5-mile Thomas F. Hampton Trail was for a past executive director of the New Jersey Natural Lands Trust. Now an interpretive nature hike, the trail occupies the former rail bed of part of the Pennsylvania Railroad. In the 1800s, Crossley was once a town where clay was mined for pottery and bricks. The "donkey" railroad hauled the clay from the mining pits to points beyond. Today Crossley is an important nature preserve with cultural significance. Tree frogs of the Jersey Pine Barrens breed in the old mining pits, now ponds, and habitats of upland and lowland pine, shrub oak, Atlantic white cedar and laurel thrive among the clay works' ruins. A few important species of flora and fauna also live here: corn snakes, pine snakes, Pickering's morning glory and Knieskern's beaked rush.
State: DE Length: 3.1 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
The Tri-Valley Trail is an easy-to-follow loop that begins and ends on Hopkins Road in White Clay Creek State Park near the park's nature center. From the nature center parking lot, walk to Hopkins Road and cross it to find the beginning of the trail. After 1 mile, the trail turns left, passes the parking lot near Wedgewood Road and crosses a bridge over White Clay Creek. Most of this trail has a natural surface, but there is crushed stone along a short portion of the trail after the bridge; follow this segment because it is there to indicate the direction of this rail-trail. The old railroad was located on the side of the creek; shortly after the bridge look for a sign, which provides information on the railroad's history. Along the way, the trail connects to several longer, steeper hiking/biking trails that cross the Mason–Dixon Line into Pennsylvania, but staying near the creek will keep you on the course of this rail-trail. The Park is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset.
State: NJ Length: 2 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Trolley Line Trail is a 2.5 mile paved pathway between Rabbit Hill Road and Penn Lyle Road in West Windsor. The trail is on the right of way of the former Fast Line electric trolley that connected Trenton and New Brunswick in the early 20th century. The trail passes through West Windsor Community Park where there are picnic facilities, soccer fields, baseball fields, tennis courts, dog parks, basketball courts and rest rooms. The West Windsor Waterworks swimming pools and Skateboard Park are also located in the community park. The trail passes behind residential areas, beside wetlands and crosses Big Bear Brook. There are signs at each end of the trail and markers every half mile. A map of the trail is located at the intersection of Brent Midland Boulevard.
State: PA Length: 6.3 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
The Union Canal Trail parallels Tulpehocken Creek between Stonecliffe Action Park northwest of downtown Reading and Blue Marsh Lake. The original Union Canal ran 79.5 miles from the Schuylkill River at Reading to the Susquehanna River at Middletown Harrisburg. Completed in 1827, the canal was not very successful for transporting goods boatmen were hesitant to use the narrow channel and locks. The scenic trail passes several historical stone buildings built during the canal's heyday; many are now used for park offices and add interest to the towpath trail. The Union Canal Trail occupies property managed by the Army Corp of Engineers. It leads across farmland to surrounding Blue Marsh Lake, which also has its own trails. Much of the trail is a well maintained crushed stone surface, 12 feet wide. At the Stilling Basin entrance the trail turns to single track. Note: Horses are not allowed on the Union Canal Trail but are permitted on the multi-use trails at Blue Marsh Lake.
State: NJ Length: 4 miles Surface: Gravel
The Union Transportation Trail runs for 4 miles between Millstream Road and Davis Station Road; it's the County's second rail-trail, accommodating equestrians, hikers, walkers, joggers and cyclists. When complete, the trail will cover 8.6 miles between Millstream Road near New Egypt north beyond New Canton Way near Allentown. The trail crosses a refurbished wooden trestle over Lahaway Creek, one of the few physical remnants of the old railroad, and via an earthen berm, crosses Miry Run Creek. Passing through a rural landscape, the Union Transportation Trail occupies the former right-of-way for the Pemberton & Hightstown Railroad, a short line established in 1864 to transport dairy and produce to larger railroads at junctions in Pemberton (Burlington County) and Hightstown (Mercer County). The railroad began operating in 1868, traveling through Hornerstown, Cream Ridge, Davis, Imlaystown and Sharon in Upper Freehold Township. Passenger service ceased in 1931 but freight service continued on sections of the line until 1977. Jersey Central Power & Light acquired the right-of-way, and in 1998 the local parks department obtained a permanent easement for the trail.
United States Avenue Trail, which is also know locally as the "Green Trail" travels through a primarily wooded landscape between Foster Avenue and Egg Harbor Road in Gibbsboro, New Jersey. At the Foster Avenue end, the trail starts in front of the police station. For the convenience of trail users there's a bike rack here. The trail heads southeast to United States Avenue where it turns south. After crossing a driveway the trail enters the woods. The setback of the trail into the woods helps to separate trail users from the traffic along United States Avenue. Paying homage to the town's history, a set of rails has been left in place between the trail surface and the roadway. Gibbsboro's evolving off road trail network intersects the rail trail in several locations. The entrance to Lindenwold Memorial Park intersects the trail at about its midpoint. The park contains ball fields, concession stand, amphitheater, walking path and tot lot. The trail emerges from the woods and passes another congregation of athletic fields and a large parking area. The bike trail officially ends before crossing Egg Harbor Road. A sidewalk continues on the other side of Egg Harbor Road and is carried across an active railroad on a pedestrian bridge.
a proposed 18 mile shared use pathway is envisioned by area residents in Delaware and Chester counties of Pennsylvania. The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia is leading the preliminary work of envisioning a trail that could connect Valley Forge National Historic Park to the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge. More information can be found on the groups blog at http://blog.bicyclecoalition.org/2010/06/vision-for-trail-from-radnor-to-john.html
State: PA Length: 2 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt
Still in project phase, but 2 miles are completed as part of the master plan. The first phase and trail head is in a park called "Lower Nike park". It was once one of the 13 Nike Atlas class missile sites used to defend Philadelphia from ICBM Intercontinental Ballistic missiles during the cold war with Russia. In the area, under the existing large picnic hill, and pavilions, there were underground silos. There were filled in during the 1990's. There were living and work quarters across folly road in the existing parking area, where there are now soccer fields and a continuation of the walking trail. There was once a memorial web site called www.site99.org that had pictures. Possibly google has other images for reference. The master plan was to make Warrington PA more pedestrian friendly and to connect major points of interest like shopping and schools and homes, as well as provide alternative transportation following creeks and greenways. Long term plan is to cross under main highways of rt 611 and rt 132, to connect to adjacent Bucks county townships of Doylestown, Warminster, Chalfont, Warwick, and the Montgomery County townships of Horsham and Montgomery among others who are also completing trail systems. My hope is that the trails may follow the Little Neshaminy creek to the Neshaminy and eventually to the Delaware river, as does the Pennypack creek trail, which is an excellent trail example. It has many places where it passes under major roads near many houses, but you are far removed from traffic, and instead have the soothing flow of water nearby. Bradford dam is the centerpiece of the trail. It is a flood control project of the Army corps of engineers, and operates as a relatively dry dam until a large rain event when is fills and slows any flood water. Avoid walking in spillway water if it floods.
State: PA Length: 7.1 miles Surface:
State: DE Length: 40 miles Surface: Ballast, Crushed Stone, Dirt
White Clay Creek State Park was created in 1968 when the state purchased 24 acres of land. The park has since grown to almost 2,500 scenic acres in the continuing effort to preserve and protect the natural resources of the valley. The park has more than 40 miles of trails, including 24 miles for shared uses. Of the many activities available at the park, hiking is one of the most popular. Twenty miles of trails lead explorers to scenic vistas overlooking lush valleys and impressive rock outcrops. Explore the Millstone Trail where grindstones were once quarried from the exposed boulders or get an active workout on the Lifecourse Fitness Trail. Hikers can also stroll though history at White Clay Creek. The Logger's Trail chronicles the history of lumbering in the area while the Twin Valley Trail leads hikers to the Arc Corner Monument, which marks one end of the curved boundary between Pennsylvania and Delaware. Traveling through rolling farm land and mature stands of beech and oak, Possum Hill hikers will discover the monument marking the point used by the famous survey team to establish the beginning of the Mason-Dixon Line. For more information, please see the Trail Website or e-mail Delaware State Parks at parkinfo@dnrec.state.de.us.
State: PA Length: 7 miles Surface: Asphalt, Gravel
Wissahickon Valley Park Trail (Forbidden Drive) follows the creek of the same name through the entire length of the park. The ominous sounding Forbidden Drive was so named because in the 1920s cars were banned from it. Today, it's open to pedestrians, equestrians and cyclists. The park includes many interesting historical features, especially interesting old homes owned by notable locals. The park has other trails; however, note that equestrians and cyclists wishing to use them must secure an annual permit from the Philadelphia's park system. Otherwise, no permit is required for the Forbidden Drive. A paved path connects Forbidden Drive to Ridge Avenue. Here Wissahickon Creek empties into the Schuylkill River. Many cyclists coming from the River Drives, or pedestrians using the R-6 Wissahickon Station or Bus Interchange, use this path. At the northern end, Forbidden Drive ends at Northwestern Avenue after crossing Bell's Mill Road.
The Wyomissing Creek Trail offers a pleasant tree-lined route along its namesake waterway in West Reading. At its eastern end, you can connect to an 18-mile segment of the Schuylkill River Trail that travels from Reading to Pottstown. A highlight of the journey is the Reading Public Museum that offers science, art, and cultural exhibits, as well as beautiful gardens and foot bridges across the creek.