If you are planning to explore Wissahickon Valley Park and its over 1,800 acres and more than 50 miles of trail, it is best to know where to begin, according to Shaunice Ajiwe in Philadelphia Magazine.

The park’s official address puts it in Philadelphia. But it’s certainly Montgomery County–accessible, nested between Gladwyne (over the Schuylkill River to its southwest) and Wyndmoor (to its northeast).

If you are headed to “The Wiss” to hike, start at Forbidden Drive. This predominantly flat trail is ideal for a hike, cycle, or horseback ride.

Other options include the Wissahickon Creek Gorge Trail for peaceful hiking and the Lavender Trail for quick but satisfying jaunts.

If you are looking for a good biking trail, head to the moderately challenging Yellow Trail, which offers nearly eight miles of single-track dirt-and-rock terrain. The White Trail, meanwhile, features rugged paths and steep climbs.

Horseback riders can enjoy Wissahickon Creek Gorge’s rugged but charming hillsides or Forbidden Drive’s wide, smooth lanes.

For bird watching, Andorra Meadow or the 3.5-mile Houston Meadow Trail are the go-to recommendations.

Meanwhile, kids will enjoy hiking the trails that lead through the Wissahickon Environmental Center.

There are also plenty of replenishing options, including Valley Green Inn and The Cedars House.

Read more about Wissahickon Valley Park in the Philadelphia Magazine.

_____

Picturesque, peaceful, and pristine: Wissahickon Valley Park.