7. Four Mills Preserve

  • Distance from Center City: 40 min
  • Address: 12 Morris Rd Ambler, PA
  • Fuel up: Enjoy classic Italian fare at From the Boot, a popular regional chain.
Creek crossing at Four Mills Nature preserve in Ambler, Pennsylvania

In the charming small countryside community of Amber, you find a small 50 acre preserve offering 2 scenic trails along the Wissahickon Creek. The combined length of the 2 trails is just over 1.5 miles, so easily doable by anyone in decent shape. The highlight here a fun little stepping stones walk over the creek at one point.

While you will get in a decent workout, the real benefit here is enjoying all the lush greenery which includes red maple, sycamore, American elm, and box elder trees.

8. Kenealy Nature Park

  • Distance from Center City: 25 min
  • Address: Youngs Ford Road & Monticello Drive, Gladwyne, PA
  • Fuel up: Enjoy a croissant and expertly made coffee at La Colombe, Philly’s best local roaster
Serene creek views at Kenealy Nature Park in Gladwyne, Pennsylvania

One of the top places in the Philly metro to escape all the city congestion is little-known Kenealy Nature Park in Gladwyne. While the sole trail here is short (just under a mile and a half), it is truly gorgeous with so much greenery, as well as peaceful creek views. The creek crossing adds a fun and challenging touch. It’s so quiet all the time. I’ve never seen more than a handful of hikers. Thus, hiking this trail will give you the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate and take in the sights and sounds of nature.

The nice thing about this trail is that it feels like a real hike in the mountains. With the rolling terrain and the need to cross over tree roots and branches, you will feel as if you are in the Poconos rather than the Philly suburbs. Tip: time your visit during the peak of fall to enjoy the lovely foliage.

9. Natural Lands Saunders Preserve

Tree swing at Natural Lands Saunders Preserve in Gladwyne, PA

A former farm has been transformed into a beautiful nature oasis in Gladwyne. This tiny preserve is hidden amongst an upscale Main Line neighborhood, and thus, never sees more than a few local walkers. Although it’s quite small at just 25 acres, the short, but scenic trail (just under a mile) passes through lovely forests, open meadows, and streams. Nature lovers will appreciate the quiet setting and lush greenery.

On an interesting side note, as you start the trail you will notice an old barn. It dates back to the 1800’s and is now available for party rentals. Also be on the lookout for the tree swing, just another fun extra which makes for a nice photo opp!

10. Tyler State Park

The longest covered bridge in Bucks County, PA at Tyler State Park

Although this is one of the furthest parks from Philly on this list, it’s also one of the most interesting and most worthy of a daytrip. Featuring the longest covered bridge (170 ft) in Bucks County, this is definitely one for the bucket list. While you are out this way, there are 11 remaining historic covered bridges to check out.

The walk to the bridge is under a 1/2 mile, so really a great option for everyone. During the fall, you will get to enjoy fabulous fall leaf peeping. Also featuring 25 miles of hiking trails, a paved biking path, picnic tables, and serene views of Neshaminy Creek, it’s easy to spend half a day here.

11. Chester Valley Trailhead

  • Distance from Center City: 30-40 min depending on access point
  • Address: See trail map
  • Fuel up: Treat yourself to lunch at Han Dynasty, rated one of the top Chinese restaurants in America.
The 14 mile long Chester Valley trail, a former railroad line in Pennsylvania's Main Line

This beautiful paved multi-purpose path runs a 14 mile course between Exton and Bridgeport. It is the best place in the Main Line to enjoy a long bike ride. With 14 miles of uninterrupted trail, you can get in a nice lengthy cycling workout. The path is beautiful too with plenty of trees lining the majority of the route.

This rail trail follows the course of the former Chester Valley Railroad which originally ran 22 miles from Bridgeport to Downingtown. Plans are currently underway to connect the trail to the Schuylkill River trail in Norristown, which should be a real treat for avid cyclists.