Delaware River Trail
| Delaware River Trail | |
|---|---|
| Type | Multi-use trail / Waterfront park |
| Location | Delaware Waterfront (multiple neighborhoods) |
| Coordinates | 39.9650,-75.1330 (central point) |
| Area | Linear trail (10+ miles planned) |
| Established | 2015 (first sections) |
| Operated by | Delaware River Waterfront Corporation / Philadelphia Parks & Recreation |
| Features | Paved trail, waterfront access, public art, fitness stations |
| Hours | Dawn to dusk |
| Transit | Multiple SEPTA bus routes and stations along trail |
| Website | Official Site |
The Delaware River Trail is a developing multi-use trail along Philadelphia's Delaware River waterfront, eventually planned to stretch over 10 miles from Allegheny Avenue in the north to the Navy Yard in the south. The trail provides pedestrians, cyclists, and runners with safe, off-road access to the river, connecting neighborhoods, parks, and attractions along the Delaware waterfront.[1]
The trail is transforming Philadelphia's relationship with its Delaware River waterfront.
Overview
Vision
The Delaware River Trail aims to:
- Connect 10+ miles of waterfront
- Provide safe pedestrian and bike access
- Link waterfront parks and attractions
- Support economic development
- Create continuous river access
Current Status
As of 2024, completed sections include:
- Northern Delaware Greenway (above Girard)
- Penn Treaty Park connections
- Central Delaware segments
- Washington Avenue Green connection
- Ongoing construction and planning
Trail Sections
Northern Segment
Port Richmond to Girard Avenue:
- Industrial waterfront transformation
- Connection to Pulaski Park
- Neighborhood trail access
- River views
Central Segment
Girard Avenue to Washington Avenue:
- Penn Treaty Park connection
- Race Street Pier access
- Penn's Landing integration
- Cherry Street Pier link
- Spruce Street Harbor Park
Southern Segment
Washington Avenue to Navy Yard:
- Industrial heritage area
- IKEA area connections
- Navy Yard terminus (planned)
- Longest continuous section
Features
Trail Design
Modern multi-use trail:
- Paved surface (10-12 feet wide)
- Separated from vehicle traffic
- Mile markers
- Lighting in key areas
- Emergency access points
Waterfront Access
- Overlooks and viewpoints
- River access points
- Pier connections
- Park entries
Public Art
- Trail-integrated art installations
- Historic interpretation
- Murals and sculptures
- Community art projects
Fitness Stations
- Exercise equipment
- Workout stations
- Mile markers for running
Using the Trail
Walking and Running
- Continuous flat surface
- Multiple entry/exit points
- Rest areas and benches
- Water fountains (seasonal)
Cycling
- Excellent cycling surface
- Part of regional trail network
- Connection to Schuylkill River Trail (via street routes)
- Bike repair stations
Access Points
Major access points include:
- Allegheny Avenue (north terminus)
- Girard Avenue
- Spring Garden Street
- Race Street Pier
- Chestnut Street/Penn's Landing
- Washington Avenue
- Oregon Avenue
Connections
Parks and Attractions
The trail connects:
- Penn Treaty Park
- Race Street Pier
- Cherry Street Pier
- Penn's Landing
- Spruce Street Harbor Park
- Washington Avenue Green
Neighborhoods
Serving multiple areas:
Visiting
Hours
- Dawn to dusk
- Some sections have extended hours
- Well-lit sections safer after dark
Getting There
Multiple access points:
- SEPTA bus routes along Delaware Avenue
- Walk from various Market-Frankford Line stations
- Bike from anywhere in the city
Parking:
- Limited street parking near access points
- Parking at Penn's Landing
- Garage parking in Old City/Society Hill
Tips
- The trail is mostly flat and accessible
- North sections are more industrial but scenic
- Central sections have more amenities
- Check DRWC website for current open sections
- Combine with waterfront attractions
Future Development
Planned Extensions
- Complete northern gap closures
- Southern extension to Navy Yard
- Improved connections between segments
- Additional amenities and parks
Vision
The complete trail will provide:
- 10+ continuous miles
- Full north-south waterfront access
- Economic development catalyst
- Regional trail connection
Nearby
- Penn's Landing — Central waterfront
- Penn Treaty Park — North
- Race Street Pier — Center City
- Delaware River — Waterfront
See Also
References
- ↑ "Delaware River Trail". Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. Retrieved December 30, 2025