Guided tours of Philadelphia's natural wonder - the Wissahickon Gorge

Philadelphia is renown as a world-class historic city – but did you know Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park is the largest urban park system in the United States? The gem of the Fairmount Park system is the Wissahickon Valley Park, home of the Wissahickon Gorge. Forged by the Wissahickon Creek as it makes its way to the Schuylkill River, the Wissahickon Gorge is the gateway to Pennsylvania’s Piedmont Province. The park itself is free and open to the public, but in order to explore all the wonders of the Wissahickon Gorge, Hiking Megalopolis is now offering guided hikes of the gorge for individuals or groups of up to 10.

International students from Temple University enjoy a group hike

With the knowledgeable and experienced Temple University instructor Brian Schwarz as your guide, come explore the geography, geology, flora and fauna, and the history of this amazing natural space located within the borders of the United States’ sixth largest city!

Group hike, Wissahickon Gorge

Section Hike ($100, up to 10 people)

Three miles, 3-4 hours, morning or afternoon hikes available

                                                          

Explore either the upper, middle or lower sections of the Wissahickon Gorge. Natural features include an urban forest, a trout-filled creek, various cascading glens, striking rock outcroppings such as Lover’s Leap, Mom Rinker’s Rock and Council Rock, a rhododendron grove, and local flora and fauna. Historic sites may include Hermit’s Cave, Rittenhousetown, Indian Statue, Toleration Statue, a covered wooden bridge, and gigantic stone bridges.

Indian Statue, Wissahickon Gorge

Thru Hike ($200, up to 10 people)

Seven miles, 6-7 hours, includes a stop for lunch at the Valley Green Inn, located within the park       

      

Spend the day exploring the vast network of trails that leads from the mouth of the Wissahickon Gorge to the top of Chestnut Hill, the first named hill of the Pennsylvania Piedmont. Enjoy all the natural and historic sites of the Wissahickon Gorge as listed in the Short Hike section, plus enjoy the satisfaction of completing a “thru-hike” of the gorge itself.

Trailheads are accessible via public transportation or by car. All you need to bring is water, trail snacks and a sturdy pair of shoes. Hiking boots are not necessary but sturdy shoes with traction are required so you are able to fully enjoy the hiking experience that is Philadelphia’s Wissahickon Gorge.

For more information and to book your hike date, contact your guide, Brian Schwarz, at briwrite@yahoo.com. Also, check out Hiking Megalopolis on Instagram and Facebook.

Happy Hiking!

NOTE: Brian Schwarz is an award-winning journalist whose career was derailed by super obesity. He fought his way back to health - losing 165 pounds in the process of his "fit-life journey". A professional communicator, educator, guide and writer by trade, and an activator by nature, Brian's personal mission is to inspire others live their fullest lives.

Fall Foliage Hike Saturday: Wissahickon Gorge, northern section

Have you ever hiked into a gorge along a cascading stream through a gorgeous glen? Have you ever faced the Leni-Lenape chief who still stands at Council Rock? Have you walked through a covered bridge or across stepping stones in a creek bed?

On Saturday, you're invited to a FALL FOLIAGE HIKE at Philadelphia's Wissahickon Gorge - northern section. I can't guarantee the leaves will be blazing at full force, but I can promise a beautiful hike in a quiet and dreamy part of the surprisingly rural-feeling urban park.

Group hike, pictured on top of Glen Onoko's second waterfall, Lehigh Gorge

Meet us at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 5, 2013, at Starbucks in Chestnut Hill (8515 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA). 

NOTE (Here come the musts!): You must be able to walk at least five miles, must wear sturdy shoes for walking on dirt and rocks, and must carry enough water and snacks for a day-long activity.

We will be exiting the park by 4 p.m. There are multiple exit options along the way, but we will plan on exiting the park by 4 p.m., returning to Chestnut Hill near our starting point. It is convenient that both Chestnut Hill East and Chestnut Hill West SEPTA Regional Rail stations are accessible near entrance and exit trail heads!

HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL THERE! DM me for more information. SHARE with friends on social media.