The warm weather is nearly upon us. I don’t know about you, but when the sun is shining and the birds are chirping, all I want to do is escape all the stress and schoolwork and get outside to enjoy the day. In light of finals week approaching, I advise all of you collegiates to get outside and get some fresh air as well! There are some classic spots on and around campus like the many picnic benches scattered about, the green lawns, and the many trees that offer shade and comfort.
However, if you are up for an adventure and want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, then I have the perfect spot. It’s called Wissahickon Park. Like most of you, I had no idea this huge park even existed until a year ago. It is actually within the city limits of Philadelphia, which is mind-blowing because the park is huge, offering 52 miles of hiking/running/biking trails.
When I tell you this park is beautiful, it is an understatement. It feels like you are in an entirely different world, completely separate from the city. In fact, for the duration of my hike, I forgot I was in Philadelphia entirely. There is about a 250 ft. elevation, so it’s not only refreshing to get outside, but it’s also a great workout to come here and go hiking. There are so many places to explore here that you could come ten times and adventure to a different area each time.
To get to Wissahickon park, travel East down City Ave and turn onto Ridge Ave. After traveling that way, you’ll end up near Bells Mill Rd. When you enter the park, you’ll come onto it by Forbidden Drive, which is a road that has been around for a century. It used to serve as a travel route for people coming through Philadelphia, but for decades now, cars have been forbidden to drive on it (hence the name). I’ll warn you that it is a little confusing to find, but if you get an address from Yelp or Google Maps, you’ll be set!
You can even rent mountain bikes or horses to travel around the park on. Through the center runs Wissahickon Gorge. I haven’t found the location yet, but there is rumored to be an area of the river with a rope swing that you can swing on and go swimming!
Wissahickon Park is a serene escape from city life without traveling too far from campus. If you have a car, some friends, and a beautiful day, I recommend taking the short trip and exploring the park for yourselves. It’s great exercise and perfect stress relief!
HCXO,
Alli