AMC's Best Day Hikes near Philadelphia takes you through 50 of the best hikes for all skill levels within an hour or two of the city. Ideal for families, tourists, and locals alike, this easy-to-use guide helps you explore Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware year-round, from lesser-known excursions to regional favorites, including several hikes on the Appalachian Trail.
Take a walk through historic Valley Forge, discover the beautiful French Creek State Park, see the Pinnacle's spectacular views, and visit New Jersey's famed Pine Barrens. Each trip includes at-a-glance icons (free entry, kid friendly, dog friendly, etc.), time and distance statistics, a difficulty rating, and a detailed map of the route, with parking areas and natural highlights noted. Several hikes are accessible by public transportation, making it especially easy to get on the trail. You'll even find icons noting the area's best snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, along with essays on the region's history, flora, and fauna.
The book is a comprehensive revision of the first edition, with new locations including Blue Marsh Lake, Trexler Nature Preserve, Stroud Preserve, Rockhopper/Dry Run Trail, and Pakim Pond. New hikes are featured at French Creek State Park, Nockamixon State Park, and Lehigh Gap. All existing hikes have been updated where necessary to describe new or modified trail routes. This second edition continues to showcase the diverse hiking opportunities in and around Philadelphia, reflecting the exciting expansion of trail systems throughout the region.
Inside You'll Find:
• GPS coordinates for each hike's starting location
• Locator map and at-a-glance trip planner for quick reference
• Detailed maps showing parking areas, trails, and natural highlights
• Summaries of time, distance, and difficulty level for each trail
• Hiking and safety tips, including advice on what to carry in your pack
• Essays about the flora, fauna, and historic landmarks of the Philadelphia area