The 30 Best Nature trails for walking in Pennsylvania

Fairmount Water Works Trail & Boardwalk is a picturesque park located on Waterworks Drive in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This institution offers visitors a serene and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The trail winds along the Schuylkill River, providing stunning views of the water and surrounding greenery. The boardwalk allows visitors to stroll above the river, offering a unique perspective of the natural beauty that surrounds them. Whether you're looking for a peaceful place to relax or a spot to exercise and connect with nature, Fairmount Water Works Trail & Boardwalk is the perfect destination.

Paradise Valley Nature Area is a 40-acre park located at 1179-1209 Valley Creek Road in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. This nature preserve offers fishing access to the West Valley Creek, a stocked trout stream. The property features natural surface trails that connect to the Chapel Trail on Paradise Farm Camps land. Visitors are encouraged to stay on the trails and follow all posted rules. Two parking areas are available for visitors, with one providing access to the creek for fishing and the other offering upland access to the preserve via the Chapel Trail. The Chapel Trail also serves as an outdoor classroom for youth development programs at Paradise Farm Camps. Whether you're looking to enjoy nature, go fishing, or explore the trails, Paradise Valley Nature Area is a must-visit destination in Downingtown.

Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 454 North Creek Road in West Chester, Pennsylvania, United States. This unique preserve is a mix of grasslands, farmlands, and woodlands that provides a perfect balance between human needs and nature conservation. The 332-acre preserve was established in 1990 by Dr. Morris Stroud, who bequeathed his Georgia Farm to Natural Lands. Since then, the preserve has expanded through donations and purchases of neighboring properties. The history of Stroud Preserve dates back to the founding of the colony, with the stone farmhouse built in 1740 listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The preserve also serves as a long-term study site for the Stroud Water Research Center, conducting groundbreaking research on streams and rivers. Scientists from the Center have set up experiments to evaluate the impact of riparian forest buffers on water quality.

Located at 1199 Cannery Road in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, the Natural Lands' ChesLen Preserve is the largest privately owned nature preserve open to the public in Chester County. Visitors can explore miles of marked hiking trails that wind through shady woodlands, flower-filled meadows, farm fields, and stream valleys. The Ollie Owl’s NaturePlayGround is a highlight for young explorers, where they can climb logs, build stick tee-pees, hunt for bugs, and get a little dirty while gaining an appreciation for nature. History buffs will appreciate the Star Gazers’ Stone, a reference point placed by surveyors and astronomers Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon in 1763 to mark the astronomical meridian line. The preserve was once part of a 17,000-acre tract owned by the legendary King Ranch, known for grazing cattle on the lush fields. Visitors can also discover a small cemetery that is a remnant of the Chester County Poorhouse, which operated as a refuge for orphans and indigent adults.

Ingram's Mill Nature Area is a peaceful 36-acre park located on the East Branch Brandywine Creek in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Named after a historic stone mill that once stood nearby, this park offers a small parking area for visitors to enjoy activities such as fishing and launching rafts and paddle craft on the creek. The park is also a starting point for a scenic paddle downstream to the Harry J. Waite Jr. Nature Area, passing through the beautiful Stroud Preserve along the way. Visitors are reminded to follow all posted park rules, including the prohibition of portable grills and parking only in designated areas. To reach the park from West Chester, take Route 322 west towards Downingtown and turn left onto North Creek Road. From Downingtown, take Route 322 east towards West Chester and turn right onto North Creek Road. Ingram's Mill Nature Area is just a short drive from either direction, offering a peaceful escape into nature along the banks of the Brandywine Creek.

Harvey Run Trail is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, United States. This scenic trail offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, with lush greenery, babbling streams, and peaceful surroundings. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Harvey Run Trail has something for everyone. Take in the beauty of the Pennsylvania landscape and enjoy a relaxing day out in nature at this charming institution.

Natural Lands' Wawa Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on Valley Road in Media, Pennsylvania, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a chance to explore and connect with nature in a serene and peaceful setting. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and diverse wildlife, the Wawa Preserve is the perfect destination for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or an adventurous outdoor experience, the Natural Lands' Wawa Preserve has something for everyone. Come visit and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in Pennsylvania.

Glenwood Hills Nature Trail is a serene park located in Erie, Pennsylvania, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, with winding trails that lead through lush forests, tranquil meadows, and scenic overlooks. Whether you enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in nature, Glenwood Hills Nature Trail is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Come and explore this hidden gem in Erie and experience the peace and tranquility of the great outdoors.

The Ohio Township Community Park Nature Center is a welcoming and educational facility located at 325 Nicholson Road in Sewickley, Pennsylvania. This center provides a variety of programs and activities for visitors of all ages to learn about and connect with the natural world. With interactive exhibits, guided nature walks, and workshops, visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems of the park and gain a greater appreciation for the environment. The knowledgeable staff are passionate about conservation and environmental education, making the Nature Center a valuable resource for the community. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, student, or family looking for a fun and educational outing, the Ohio Township Community Park Nature Center is a must-visit destination.

Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve is a peaceful sanctuary located at 614 Dorseyville Road in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This beautiful park offers visitors the chance to explore nature at its finest, with scenic walking trails, lush forests, and a variety of wildlife to admire. The reserve also features a charming store where visitors can purchase unique gifts and souvenirs to remember their visit. A popular tourist attraction, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with the natural world.

Boyce Park Nature Center is a hidden gem nestled within the sprawling Boyce Park in Plum, Pennsylvania. This educational institution offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the park through interactive exhibits, guided nature walks, and educational programs. From learning about local wildlife to discovering the importance of conservation, the Nature Center provides a hands-on experience for visitors of all ages. With its prime location at 675 Old Frankstown Road, Boyce Park Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and families looking to connect with the great outdoors.

Nay Aug Avenue Natural Play Area is a beautiful park located at 1737 Nay Aug Avenue in Scranton, Pennsylvania. This institution offers a unique and immersive outdoor experience for visitors of all ages. With its natural play structures, walking trails, and lush greenery, Nay Aug Avenue Natural Play Area provides the perfect setting for children to explore and connect with nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful place to relax or a fun spot for the kids to play, this park has something for everyone. Come and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Nay Aug Avenue Natural Play Area today!

Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 47 Rabbit Run Lane in Bear Creek Village, Pennsylvania. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore over 3,500 acres of pristine wilderness, including lush forests, meadows, and sparkling creeks. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The preserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and a variety of bird species. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat into nature or a fun-filled day of outdoor adventure, Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

The Lehigh Gap Nature Center, located at 8844 Paint Mill Road in Slatington, Pennsylvania, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction offering a variety of educational programs and events for nature enthusiasts of all ages. With a focus on bird migration, the center offers guided hikes to observe migrating birds of prey at Bake Oven Knob, as well as bird watching walks and workshops led by experienced ornithologists. The center also offers summer camps for children in grades K-2, where campers can learn about local ecosystems and wildlife through outdoor adventures and hands-on activities. Additionally, the center hosts events such as the Lehigh Gap Area Feeder Watch, where participants can help count and identify local bird species.

Berks Nature Angelica Creek Park is a picturesque park located at 575 Saint Bernardine Street in Reading, Pennsylvania. This beautiful tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature. The park features lush greenery, walking trails, and a serene creek that runs through the grounds. Visitors can enjoy picnics, birdwatching, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the park to unwind and connect with nature. Berks Nature Angelica Creek Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Trexler Nature Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 4935 Orchard Road in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania, United States. This serene and picturesque preserve offers visitors the chance to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of Pennsylvania. With miles of hiking trails, lush greenery, and diverse wildlife, Trexler Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, go birdwatching, or simply relax in a peaceful setting, this preserve has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of Trexler Nature Preserve today!

Trexler Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located at 5150 Game Preserve Road in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania. This serene institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. With its lush greenery, peaceful walking trails, and diverse wildlife, Trexler Nature Preserve is the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with family and friends, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of Trexler Nature Preserve for yourself.

Chickadee Nature Discovery Area, located at 2910 New Holland Road in Mohnton, Pennsylvania, is part of the Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center. This institution spans over 725 acres of woodlands and plantations, offering a network of trails that lead to streams, ponds, and diverse habitats. Visitors can explore teaching stations, benches, and ADA accessible trails at the Nolde Mansion and historic sawmill. The park office, housed in the Nolde Mansion, overlooks a garden with native wildflowers and a fountain. The C.H. McConnell Environmental Education Hall serves as the indoor classroom for educational programming. Nolde Forest is dedicated to providing a variety of environmental education and recreation programs year-round for schools, civic groups, and the community. Visitors can also utilize the electric vehicle charging station located at the Sawmill Parking Lot. Additionally, information on the nearest hospital, Reading Hospital, is available at the park office. Come and explore the beauty and educational opportunities at Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center in Berks County, Pennsylvania.

Natural Lands' Meng Preserve is a beautiful park located at 226 Mine Hill Road in Schwenksville, Pennsylvania. This forested property features impressive outcrops of diabase rock and vernal pools, making it a haven for wildlife, including various species of migratory songbirds. Once the home of Eva R. Meng, who generously gifted the land to Valley Forge Audubon Society in 1994, the preserve now boasts two miles of hiking trails named in honor of Eva and her sister, Edna Meng. This steeply sloped preserve is part of the Stone Hill Greenway, a vast, unbroken forest that provides essential habitat for wildlife. The property was used as "Camp Ivy" for Girl Scout Troop #3 of Schwenksville for many years, allowing children to connect with the natural world. In 2019, ownership of the preserve was transferred to Natural Lands, a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving open space, caring for nature, and connecting people to the outdoors.

Briar Bush Nature Center is a charming museum and park located at 1212 Edge Hill Road in Abington, Pennsylvania, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the natural world through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and guided nature walks. With its beautiful outdoor spaces and engaging indoor displays, Briar Bush Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come discover the wonders of the natural world at this hidden gem in Abington.

Devonshire Court Township Park - Nature Preserve is a beautiful park located on Gorson Drive in Warminster, Pennsylvania. This nature preserve offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with serene walking trails, lush greenery, and a variety of wildlife to observe. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, Devonshire Court Township Park is the perfect place to unwind and recharge. Come explore this hidden gem in the heart of Pennsylvania and experience the tranquility and natural beauty it has to offer.

Silver Lake Nature Center is a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Bristol, Pennsylvania. As a popular tourist attraction, this park offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With its lush forests, tranquil lake, and scenic trails, the Silver Lake Nature Center is the perfect place for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. Visitors can also participate in educational programs and workshops to learn more about the local wildlife and ecosystems. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun outdoor adventure, Silver Lake Nature Center has something for everyone.

Located at 547 South Swedesford Road in North Wales, Pennsylvania, Natural Lands' Gwynedd Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction. The main parking lot is currently under construction, so visitors are advised to park on Evergreen Drive and enter the preserve from there if the lot is closed. Gwynedd Preserve offers a peaceful retreat into nature, surrounded by the suburban developments of Blue Bell and North Wales. The fields, once used for agriculture, are now being carefully restored to their natural state, showcasing a variety of native plants such as warm-season grasses and wildflowers.

The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education is a unique institution located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Situated at 8480 Hagy's Mill Road, this center serves as both a park and a school dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and education. With its sprawling grounds and diverse habitats, visitors can participate in a range of programs and activities focused on sustainability, conservation, and environmental stewardship. Whether you're looking to explore nature trails, attend workshops, or learn about local wildlife, the Schuylkill Center offers a wealth of opportunities to connect with the natural world. Come visit this inspiring institution and discover the beauty and importance of our environment.

Bear Run Nature Reserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1478 Mill Run Road in Mill Run, Pennsylvania, United States. This beautiful nature reserve offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the natural world. With picturesque hiking trails, lush forests, and breathtaking waterfalls, Bear Run Nature Reserve is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you are looking for a peaceful escape or an adventurous day out, this institution is sure to leave you in awe of the wonders of the natural world.

Bossard Nature Center is a travel agency located in Saegertown, Pennsylvania, United States. Situated at 22088 Pennsylvania 198, this institution offers a unique and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and hiking trails that surround the center, making it the perfect destination for those looking to connect with the great outdoors. With knowledgeable guides and a commitment to conservation, Bossard Nature Center provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to discover the natural beauty of Pennsylvania.

Rail Trail- New Freedom is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 1 East High Street in New Freedom, Pennsylvania, United States. This historic trail follows the path of a former railway line, offering visitors a scenic and leisurely way to explore the beautiful countryside. The trail is perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll in nature. With its lush greenery, charming bridges, and peaceful atmosphere, Rail Trail- New Freedom is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Clarion Area Trail Town Co-op is a travel agency located at 17 South 5th Avenue in Clarion, Pennsylvania, United States. This institution serves as a hub for travelers seeking information, resources, and services related to exploring the beautiful trails and outdoor adventures in the Clarion area. Whether you're a hiker, biker, or nature enthusiast, the Clarion Area Trail Town Co-op is your go-to destination for planning your next outdoor excursion. Visit us today and let us help you make the most of your travel experience in Clarion!

The I.S. and Gertrude Sahli Nature Park is a stunning natural oasis located at 194 McKinley Road in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and walking trails, the park provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a bird watcher, or simply looking for a relaxing outdoor experience, the I.S. and Gertrude Sahli Nature Park is the perfect destination for a day of exploration and enjoyment.

Fern Hollow Nature Center is a serene park and popular tourist attraction located at 1901 Glen Mitchell Road in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, United States. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the beauty of the natural world through its lush greenery, tranquil walking trails, and educational programs. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or learn more about the local flora and fauna, Fern Hollow Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.