Author
Ava Jackowsky
Digital Marketing Intern
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Montgomery County is home to some of the best running trails in the Greater Philadelphia area. Montco offers a trail for every runner's preference. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature escape jog or a challenging run with great views, each route promises not only a great workout but also an opportunity to explore the county's natural beauty. From quiet paths along creeks to rugged trails through forests, there's something for every runner here. So, grab your running shoes and explore why Montco is perfect for runners of all levels.
The Chester Valley Trail spans 18.6 miles through Chester and Montgomery Counties, featuring a smooth, paved surface that's accessible to all. Ideal for runners, it's 10-12 feet wide with 2-foot shoulders, offering a safe and scenic route through suburban landscapes. Recently extended by 3.8 miles to connect with the Schuylkill River Trail in Norristown, the trail is expanding westward into Downingtown. Whether you're training or enjoying a run, it provides a well-maintained path for runners year-round.
The Cross County Trail begins in Conshohocken, providing runners with a smooth, 12-foot wide paved path that currently spans 3 miles to Germantown Pike in Plymouth Township. This trail provides a mix of urban and suburban areas, offering a scenic route through Montgomery County. As it expands to 17.5 miles in the future, it will serve as a significant north-south route, connecting to Willow Grove and Bucks County. Runners can enjoy varied landscapes and convenient access to public transit in Conshohocken and Plymouth Meeting, facilitating exploration of different sections of the trail.
The Pennypack Trail offers runners a scenic 6.2-mile crushed stone path along Pennypack Creek, from Rockledge Park to the Bucks-Montgomery border. This former SEPTA rail line route passes historic sites like 19th-century mills and the oldest U.S. road bridge. Runners should exercise caution at the active SEPTA West Trenton line crossings and stick to main trails to preserve sensitive natural areas managed by the Pennypack Ecological Restoration Trust. It's a peaceful route combining historical charm with conservation efforts, ideal for runners seeking a scenic and tranquil workout.
The Perkiomen Trail stretches 20 miles along Perkiomen Creek, featuring a mix of crushed stone and some paved sections. It follows the former Reading Railroad's Perkiomen Line, offering runners a smooth path. Known as the "Perky," it connects to the Schuylkill River Trail and Audubon Loop, providing access to parks and historical sites like Lower Perkiomen Valley Park, Green Lane Park, and Pennypacker Mills. Passing through villages such as Arcola, Collegeville, and Schwenksville, the trail offers amenities for runners and a scenic route through nature and history.
The Schuylkill River Trail spans 18 miles with a smooth asphalt path that's 10-12 feet wide. It follows the scenic Schuylkill River from Philadelphia to Mont Clare, perfect for runners who enjoy a flat, well-maintained route. Recognized as a National Recreation Trail, it's popular for jogging with its serene views. Future plans include extending the trail to Pottstown, making it 22.5 miles long in Montgomery County. It's part of a broader effort to create a 60-mile trail from Philadelphia to Reading, offering runners plenty of space to explore along the river's path.
The Audubon Loop in the county trail system provides runners with a picturesque five-mile circuit around Lower Perkiomen Valley Park and the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove. You can conveniently park at Pawling's Road before setting off on this scenic route. The trail links seamlessly with the Perkiomen Trail and Schuylkill River Trail, offering runners a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area while enjoying connections to wider trail networks. It's best enjoyed from April to October and welcomes leashed dogs, making it a great spot for runners looking to enjoy nature with their pets.
The U.S. Route 202 Parkway Trail offers an easy 8.48-mile route spanning Montco and Bucks County. Alongside the parkway runs a 12-foot-wide shared-use path, providing ample space for runners. With 19 access points available, runners can easily enter the path for a smooth and uninterrupted run between Welsh Road (Route 63) and Route 611 in Montgomery and Doylestown townships. Whether you're training or enjoying a leisurely jog, this trail offers accessibility and scenic views throughout its length.
The Joseph Plumb Martin Trail in Valley Forge National Historical Park offers runners a scenic 5-mile inner loop that connects significant historic sites, such as the National Memorial Arch. Named after a Continental Soldier from the Valley Forge encampment, this paved trail is accessible from the main visitor center parking lot. While parts of the trail are hilly and mostly unshaded, it provides a rich historical experience for history enthusiasts. For those seeking more mileage or challenge, the trail conveniently links to several other trails within the park, making it an ideal choice for runners looking to explore both history and nature.
Check out the Horsham Power Line Trail, an 8.7-mile trail near Ambler, Pennsylvania—perfect for runners of all levels! It's an easy beginner-friendly route, usually taking around 2 hours and 52 minutes round-trip. You'll have plenty of space to yourself, especially from March to October. Leashed dogs are welcome too, making it a great choice for a scenic run with your furry friends!
The Valley Forge Revolutionary 5-Mile Run hosted at the Valley Forge National Historical Park is the only 5-mile run held entirely within a national park! For over 18 years, this event has offered runners a unique blend of athleticism and American history.
Digital Marketing Intern