Philadelphia's Fairmount Park Opens 215 Miles of Trails for Hiking

Fairmount Park encompasses over 2,050 acres divided into East and West Fairmount Park and features more than 215 miles of trails for hiking, cycling and trail running. This extensive network draws residents and visitors seeking accessible outdoor options in the city.

East Fairmount Park trails

The 3.8-mile Boxers’ Trail in East Fairmount Park is a restored gravel and hardpack path famous as a training ground for Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali. It offers views of the Schuylkill River and forms one of the signature routes within the larger trail system. The path connects to other segments that allow users to extend their outings along the river corridor.

Schuylkill River and MLK Drive routes

The Schuylkill River Trail is a 14-mile multi-use path running through the park, alongside the MLK Drive Trail which hugs the west side of the river. These routes support walking, running and cycling while staying close to the water. Trails and green spaces remain open daily from sunrise to sunset with free access, although specific attractions like the Horticulture Center may have separate hours.

Belmont Plateau area

The Belmont Plateau area hosts the 4.5-mile Trolley Trail, a soft-surface loop with 1.5 miles completed, along with multiple cross-country trail loops used for championship meets since the 1960s. These paths provide additional variety for runners and hikers looking for loop options within the park boundaries. The combination of restored historic trails and established river paths creates a connected system that supports different activity levels and interests throughout the year.

Access remains straightforward because the trails sit within a single large park managed for public use. Visitors can start at multiple points and follow the river or plateau routes without fees for basic trail entry. The layout encourages repeated visits as users explore different sections over time.