The Liberty Bell, Rocky, and the ubiquitous cheese-steak may be the first thoughts when you hear Philadelphia, but do not sell this town short in the out of doors recreation and sports department. Philadelphia is located in just the right spot for outdoor sports. The Delaware River, and the lakes of the region give boaters a chance to get the paddles out and hit the waves, while the rolling pastoral countryside round the town is a road cyclists dream. Rock climbers have masses of places to go and get their fingers in the cracks. Outdoor sports in Philadelphia have quite a following, with numerous specialised clubs for the activities.
Cycling Opportunities
Road and mountain riders can find ample places to keep the tires to the ground in the larger Philadelphia region. Road bicyclists are encouraged to drive into the Pennsylvania countryside to coach and tour the many roads of the region. You get to bike alongside Amish wagons, and then stop at roadside pie and apple cider stands during the fall. Mountain bike riders have trails right in the town. Valley Forge National Historic Park is within a simple 45 minutes from the city where cycle riders of both disciplines can tour the park sites by bike. With no regard for your preference, there is lots of biking in Philadelphia. If you would like to find riding companions for biking in Philadelphia, use the Meetup Philadelphia resource.
Philadelphia Trail Running and Hiking
Philadelphia has a net of trails across the city. Plenty of the trails are dirt paths, inspiring trail running and hiking. If you are not into the speed, slow down and enjoy them slowly. Hiking trails in Philadelphia wind through city parks and historic districts. Outside of the city are plenty of trails that cut across the Delaware Valley. It is possible to get mega-training days in by patching the trails together. Hiking trails in Philadelphia are popular and there are numerous groups that have organized naturalist walks and runs. Try the Philly chapter of the Hash House Harriers to find acceptable running and hiking partners.
Kayaking and Canoeing
The Philadelphia Canoe Club (PCC) has been a presence in Philly since 1905. The PCC welcomes new members and always has a hectic schedule of trips or events. Considering the clubhouse is on the banks of the Wissahickon Creek and Schuylkill River, it is smart to pay them a trip to take full advantage of all the water sport opportunities with the club.
Climbing and Winter Sports
If you are a vertical rock-rat and wish to play in the Philly area, head over to Spring Mountain Ski Area. Besides the skiing slopes, the area has rock routes in the spring, summer and fall. The Meetup Philly Climbing Club organizes group climbing trips out from the town. If you would like snow, go to Spring Mountain in the winter and strap on your skis or board to enjoy snowy terrain, just 30 minutes outside the town. Regardless of what your favourite sport is, outdoor sports in Philadelphia are closer than you may well think.
Cycling Opportunities
Road and mountain riders can find ample places to keep the tires to the ground in the larger Philadelphia region. Road bicyclists are encouraged to drive into the Pennsylvania countryside to coach and tour the many roads of the region. You get to bike alongside Amish wagons, and then stop at roadside pie and apple cider stands during the fall. Mountain bike riders have trails right in the town. Valley Forge National Historic Park is within a simple 45 minutes from the city where cycle riders of both disciplines can tour the park sites by bike. With no regard for your preference, there is lots of biking in Philadelphia. If you would like to find riding companions for biking in Philadelphia, use the Meetup Philadelphia resource.
Philadelphia Trail Running and Hiking
Philadelphia has a net of trails across the city. Plenty of the trails are dirt paths, inspiring trail running and hiking. If you are not into the speed, slow down and enjoy them slowly. Hiking trails in Philadelphia wind through city parks and historic districts. Outside of the city are plenty of trails that cut across the Delaware Valley. It is possible to get mega-training days in by patching the trails together. Hiking trails in Philadelphia are popular and there are numerous groups that have organized naturalist walks and runs. Try the Philly chapter of the Hash House Harriers to find acceptable running and hiking partners.
Kayaking and Canoeing
The Philadelphia Canoe Club (PCC) has been a presence in Philly since 1905. The PCC welcomes new members and always has a hectic schedule of trips or events. Considering the clubhouse is on the banks of the Wissahickon Creek and Schuylkill River, it is smart to pay them a trip to take full advantage of all the water sport opportunities with the club.
Climbing and Winter Sports
If you are a vertical rock-rat and wish to play in the Philly area, head over to Spring Mountain Ski Area. Besides the skiing slopes, the area has rock routes in the spring, summer and fall. The Meetup Philly Climbing Club organizes group climbing trips out from the town. If you would like snow, go to Spring Mountain in the winter and strap on your skis or board to enjoy snowy terrain, just 30 minutes outside the town. Regardless of what your favourite sport is, outdoor sports in Philadelphia are closer than you may well think.
About the Author:
Name is a keen Philadelphia outdoor sports fan and especially enjoys discovering biking and hiking trails in Philadelphia. For recommendations on activities and great locations for outdoor sports in Philadelphia, please check out http://sportsinphilly.org/.
