The best walks and hikes around Fox Chase
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Hiking around Fox Chase, Pennsylvania, offers access to extensive parklands and a network of trails. The region is characterized by woodlands, meadows, and marshes, with the Pennypack Creek meandering through the landscape. This urban area provides direct access to natural environments, featuring varied terrain suitable for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around Fox Chase
- The most popular hiking route is Wyomissing Creek Trail, a 2.1 miles (3.4 km) trail that takes about 1 hour to complete. This easy route follows the Wyomissing Creek through natural surroundings.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Union Canal Trail, a moderate 10.6 miles (17.1 km) path. This longer trail offers varied scenery and can be completed in approximately 4 hours 24 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Tulpy Flow and Lake Border Trail Loop, a 3.2 miles (5.2 km) trail leading through diverse landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 23 minutes.
- Hiking around Fox Chase is defined by its access to parklands, woodlands, and creek-side paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate excursions.
- The routes in Fox Chase are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 120 hikers have used komoot to explore Fox Chase's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 31, 2026
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3.39km
00:52
10m
10m
The Wyomissing Creek Trail offers an easy hike through varied landscapes, perfect for a relaxing outing. You'll follow the gentle flow of Wyomissing Creek, passing through open fields and shaded wooded sections, including a distinctive pine forest. The path is mostly flat, with a minimal elevation gain of just 37 feet (11 metres) over its 2.1 miles (3.4 km) length. This makes it an ideal route for a quick walk, taking approximately 51 minutes to complete. Keep an eye out for the picturesque Skating Pond as you make your way along the route.
This easy trail is suitable for all skill levels, making it a great choice for families or anyone seeking a leisurely walk. You'll find ample parking available at Wyomissing Park, which serves as a convenient starting point. The route is also dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed canine companion along. Benches and playground equipment are located within the park, providing nice spots for a break or for children to play.
Beyond the natural beauty, the trail offers direct access to the beautiful grounds of the Reading Public Museum, making it easy to combine your outdoor activity with a cultural visit. As you explore, watch for local wildlife; you might spot great blue herons near the water or painted turtles basking in the sun. This route provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and local attractions in one accessible package.
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17.1km
04:24
80m
80m
Hike the moderate 10.6-mile Union Canal Trail through wooded areas and along Tulpehocken Creek, featuring historical canal remnants and Wert
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3.0
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6
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5.18km
01:23
60m
60m
Hike an easy 3.2-mile loop through forests and along Blue Marsh Lake, enjoying scenic views and unique "flow" sections.
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5.65km
01:27
20m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the Muhlenberg Rail Trail, a paved path stretching 3.5 miles (5.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 66 feet (20 metres). You can comfortably complete this route in about 1 hour and 26 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. The trail offers a unique blend of urban and natural scenery, winding through residential areas and light industrial zones north of Reading. Enjoy sections shaded by a pleasant tree canopy, providing a cool respite on warmer days. As you go, keep an eye out for the expansive, mothballed site of the 24-acre Empire Steel Castings, a distinctive landmark that adds a touch of history to your journey through mixed business and park spaces.
For your convenience, parking is available at the northern trailhead located on Mt. Laurel Road. This trailhead also features a wheelchair-accessible path, ensuring the route is welcoming for all fitness levels. While you will find benches for resting and trash receptacles along the way, please note that there are no public restrooms directly on the trail. Plan your visit accordingly, perhaps by using facilities before or after your hike.
This trail stands out as a fully paved, accessible option for those seeking a straightforward outdoor experience near Reading. Its former life as a railway line contributes to its flat, easy-to-navigate terrain, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll or a quick exercise session. The presence of the historic Empire Steel Castings site offers a glimpse into the region's industrial past, adding an interesting layer to your exploration of the local landscape.
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6.90km
01:47
40m
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Embark on an easy hike along the Wyomissing Creek and Schuylkill River Trail Loop, a pleasant 4.3-mile (6.9 km) route. You will enjoy a diverse journey through tree-lined paths, offering views of the creek and beautiful landscaping. The trail also takes you past the Reading Public Museum, where you can admire its lovely gardens and footbridges. With a gentle elevation gain of just 130 feet (40 metres), this loop is perfect for a relaxed outing, taking about 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete. Expect tranquil stretches along the Schuylkill River, blending natural beauty with glimpses of the region's industrial past.
The terrain on this loop is generally easy, making it accessible for many visitors. You will encounter a mix of paved, gravel, and some unpaved sections throughout the route. Parking is widely available, especially along the Schuylkill River Trail, providing convenient access to the trailhead. This makes planning your visit straightforward, allowing you to focus on enjoying the natural surroundings.
This loop is situated within the Reading Public Museum Arboretum, offering a unique blend of outdoor recreation and cultural enrichment. The path along Wyomissing Creek provides a serene experience, while the Schuylkill River section connects you to a broader historical narrative. It is an excellent option if you are looking for a straightforward, easy hike that combines natural beauty with points of interest.
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Tips from the Community
This is a picturesque pond with trails running alongside it and wooden decks to relax on—an alternate trail system if you want to escape busy roads, ride along the creek, or just find a nice spot for a break.
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This mostly flat paved trail offers plenty of shade along the way, providing nice, peaceful views of meadows and Wyomissing Creek.
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The Muhlenberg Rail Trail is a fully paved multiuse trail that was built on the spot of the old East Penn Branch of the Reading Railroad. It is mostly flat and is a very popular path for walkers, runners and cyclists.
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The Union Canal Trail runs along the Tulpehocken Creek from Reading to Leesport. The trail is made of crushed limestone, so it is a great path for walking, running, and cycling.
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Wyomissing Creek Trail is a part paved, part gravel path next to Wyomissing Creek. It passes through several parks and gardens, and it travels on both sides of the water. The trail is pretty flat and connects to a bunch of other paths that move through the city of Reading.
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Tulpehocken Creek is a tributary of the Schuylkill River. While there are no bathrooms or picnic tables, it is a great spot for a break to take in the scenic and tranquil waters. The creek is open to fishing, so it is not uncommon to share the space with others trying their luck to catch something.
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Wertz's Covered Bridge, also known as Red Covered Bridge, is a Burr Arch bridge constructed in 1867. In 1984, the bridge was restored and is now passable to walkers and bikers as part of the Union Canal Trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Fox Chase?
Fox Chase offers access to over 25 hiking routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy strolls and more challenging excursions through the area's parklands and natural spaces.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Fox Chase?
Hiking in Fox Chase provides diverse natural scenery, primarily within the expansive Pennypack Park. You'll encounter woodlands, open meadows, and marshes, with the scenic Pennypack Creek winding through the landscape. The trails offer views of the creek, cliffs, and dense forests.
Are there any easy hiking options suitable for beginners or a relaxed walk?
Yes, Fox Chase has numerous easy trails. For a gentle experience, consider the Wyomissing Creek Trail, an easy 2.1-mile route that follows the creek through natural surroundings. Another accessible option is the Tulpy Flow and Lake Border Trail Loop, which is 3.2 miles long and leads through varied landscapes.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes in the area?
For those seeking a longer adventure, the Union Canal Trail is a moderate 10.6-mile path offering varied scenery, typically taking around 4 hours and 24 minutes to complete. While most routes are easy to moderate, this trail provides a good option for a longer outing.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions near the hiking trails?
While hiking, you might encounter several points of interest. The Pennypack Creek itself is a significant natural feature, offering scenic views. Nearby attractions include Wertz's Covered Bridge and the historic Reading Pagoda. The Union Canal Trail and Schuylkill River Trail are also notable trails in the broader area.
Is Fox Chase a good place for family-friendly hikes?
Yes, Fox Chase is well-suited for family outings. Many of the trails, particularly within Pennypack Park, are easy and relatively flat, making them ideal for all ages. The recently opened Fox Chase Lorimer Trail is even ADA-compliant, providing accessible options for families with strollers or those needing easier terrain.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Fox Chase?
Pennypack Park, which hosts many of the trails in Fox Chase, is generally dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are typically welcome on the trails, allowing you to enjoy the natural environment with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is under control and clean up after them.
How can I access the hiking trails using public transport?
The Fox Chase neighborhood offers direct access to its trail network. The new 0.65-mile Fox Chase Lorimer Trail specifically connects the SEPTA Fox Chase Station directly to the extensive Pennypack Trail, making it convenient to reach the natural areas via public transportation.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Fox Chase?
The hiking routes in Fox Chase are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.2 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessibility to extensive parklands and the varied terrain that offers both easy strolls and more moderate excursions.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Fox Chase?
Yes, you can find circular routes in the Fox Chase area. An example is the Wyomissing Creek and Schuylkill River Trail Loop, an easy 4.3-mile path that allows you to start and end at the same point while enjoying diverse scenery along both the creek and river.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Fox Chase?
Fox Chase offers enjoyable hiking opportunities throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Summer is great for longer days, and even winter can be beautiful with snow-covered landscapes, though some trails might be slick. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting along the trails?
Yes, the extensive parklands of Pennypack Park provide a habitat for various wildlife. While hiking through the woodlands, meadows, and along the Pennypack Creek, you might spot local bird species, small mammals, and other native fauna. Early mornings or late afternoons are often the best times for wildlife viewing.
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