Wissahickon Valley
| Type | Neighborhood |
|---|---|
| Location | Northwest Philadelphia |
| ZIP code(s) | 19128, 19144 |
| Named for | Wissahickon Creek |
| Boundaries | Along Wissahickon Creek valley from the Schuylkill to Chestnut Hill |
| Adjacent | Roxborough, Germantown, Mount Airy, East Falls |
| Major streets | Ridge Avenue, Lincoln Drive, Wissahickon Avenue |
| Transit | SEPTA bus routes |
| Landmarks | Wissahickon Valley Park, Valley Green Inn, covered bridges |
Wissahickon refers to both a neighborhood in Northwest Philadelphia and the famous Wissahickon Valley Park that defines it. The neighborhood takes its name from Wissahickon Creek, which runs through a dramatic gorge that remains remarkably wild within the city limits. The park and creek have attracted visitors since the 19th century and remain one of Philadelphia's most treasured natural areas.[1]
Wissahickon Valley Park
Wissahickon Valley Park is a 2,000-acre park encompassing the Wissahickon Creek gorge:
Features
- 57 miles of trails
- Dramatic gorge landscape
- Historic structures
- Wildlife habitat
- Forbidden Drive (main trail)
Forbidden Drive
The main trail along the creek is called Forbidden Drive:
- 5.5-mile gravel path
- Follows the former carriage road
- Popular for hiking, biking, horseback riding
- Closed to motor vehicles (hence "Forbidden")
Valley Green Inn
The historic Valley Green Inn (1850) serves as a destination within the park:
- Restaurant and inn
- Historic building
- Trailside location
- Popular gathering spot
Covered Bridges
Historic covered bridges cross the creek:
- Thomas Mill Covered Bridge
- Romantic architecture
- Photography destinations
Natural Features
The Gorge
The Wissahickon Gorge is a dramatic feature:
- 200+ foot deep in places
- Steep forested slopes
- Rock outcroppings
- Remarkably wild for an urban park
Wildlife
The park supports diverse wildlife:
- White-tailed deer
- Various bird species
- Fish in the creek
- Small mammals
Trees
Old-growth forest remnants and diverse tree species.
History
Native American Use
The Lenape used the Wissahickon Valley for centuries. The name "Wissahickon" comes from a Lenape word.
Colonial Era
Early mills operated along the creek, using water power.
Romantic Era
In the 19th century, the Wissahickon became a destination for Romantic-era visitors seeking natural beauty. Poets and artists celebrated the gorge.
Park Preservation
The park was preserved as part of the Fairmount Park system, protecting it from development.
Access Points
The park has multiple entrances:
Northwestern Avenue
Main entrance to Forbidden Drive with parking.
Valley Green
Access near Valley Green Inn.
Bells Mill Road
Upper Wissahickon access.
Lincoln Drive
Multiple access points along the drive.
Activities
Hiking
Dozens of trails at various difficulty levels.
Biking
Forbidden Drive is popular for cycling.
Horseback Riding
Permitted on Forbidden Drive and designated trails.
Fishing
Fishing permitted in Wissahickon Creek (license required).
The Neighborhood
The residential Wissahickon neighborhood borders the park:
- Access to trails
- Quieter character
- Natural setting
- Limited transit
See Also
References
- ↑ "Friends of the Wissahickon". Friends of the Wissahickon. Retrieved December 22, 2025