Tyler Arboretum Loop

Though many Philly residents may know about nearby Ridley Creek State Park, the Tyler Arboretum has an extensive trail network that has been maintained with numerous curated plant and tree species to explore. They also provide a helpful overview of which plants are in bloom over the calendar year, so that you can keep an eye out for their "must-see" recommendations.For this clockwise loop hike, follow signage from the main parking lot for the Scenic Loop and Thoreau's "Walden" Cabin Replica. Continue east/northeast onto the Rocky Run Trail which shares a section of trail with the Minshall Trail (White). Keep an eye on the Mobile App or look for white blazes as there are many trails that intersect each other which can be confusing.Stay on the Minshall Trail (White) as it loops around the northern end of the arboretum property, crossing Rocky Run, and overlapping with the Painter Trail. Just before the two-mile mark, the Minshall Trail (White) and Painter Trail split. Stay right on the Painter Trail for a shorter section (as shown here) or head left on the Minshall Trail (White) as it rejoins the Painter Trail just past Indian Rock only adding a few hundred feet more. Continue south on the Painter Trail/Minshall Trail (White) and look for a left onto the Dismal Run Trail with orange blazes. This trail follows a beautiful stream. At its southern end, look for a left turn onto the Pink Hill Trail. This loop adds around 1.75 miles, some elevation, and visits some historic ruins. If you have time and energy, it's a must-see. After completing the loop, cross the bridge again, this time heading north, following the Pink Hill Trail to the Scenic Loop. Head left (east) to return back to the Visitor Center and parking area with access to the Giant Sequoia and Maze along the way.

This land was owned and cared for by the Minshall/Painter family dating back to 1681. The Painter brothers began planting in earnest in 1831 and 12 of their trees still remain today. See the Tyler Arboretum website for more information on the history of this property.