Near Forbidden Drive
Statue of Tedyuscung
Near Forbidden Drive
Rex Ave Bridge
Near Forbidden Drive
Covered Bridge
Near Forbidden Drive
Water Falls
Near Forbidden Drive
A rocky climb on the northeast part of the trail.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Forbidden Drive

3.7 (7 Ratings)
A wide, winding trail with a great view of Wissahickon Creek.
5.3
mi
Distance
160
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsRiver/CreekWildflowersWildlife
Access Issues
Most of the parking areas close at dusk. Dogs are supposed to be leashed, but I frequently see dogs that are off leash.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
5.34mi
Distance
160ft
Elevation Gain
78ft
Elevation Loss
10%
Max Grade
147ft
High Point
48ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
Starting at parking lot .5 miles past Old Rittenhouse Town head north up the wide, fairly well maintained path. This 5.5 mile trail follows Wissahickon Creek and ends at the intersection of Andorra Road and North Northwestern Road. Along the way you'll pass lush fauna, lots of chances to explore trails that spring off of Forbidden Drive, as well as other cool attractions: At approximately mile 2, look across the creek at the very cool Fingerspan Bridge. At approximately mile 2.75, you can get lunch or a snack at the Valley Green Inn. At approximately mile 3.5, look across the creek and see the statue of the last Lenni-Lenapi Chief. At approximately mile 4.5 is the Red Covered bridge. There are a ton of options getting back if you want a change of scenery; both the Yellow Trail and Orange Trail connect back, though they are quite a bit longer and not nearly as easy. This really is a beautiful area in the city of Philadelphia.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

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Contributors
Scott Spencer