7-Mile Urban Hike: River Views, Cira Green & 30th Street Station

Join Me for a Scenic Hike Along the Schuylkill River Trail

Spring is here, and it’s time to start enjoying the outdoors again! Join me for a scenic urban hike along the banks of the Schuylkill River, where we’ll take in beautiful views of both the river and the city. Along the way, we’ll make a brief detour to visit the magnificent and iconic 30th Street Station, as well as Cira Green—one of Philadelphia’s most unique urban parks, located atop an 11-story parking garage.

There will be several opportunities to stop along the way to admire points of interest, take photos, and allow everyone to regroup. However, we’ll be moving at a steady pace of 3.0–3.5 mph in order to keep the hike under three hours.

For those interested, we’ll head to a nearby spot for brunch, lunch, or drinks after the hike.

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The Plan

We’ll meet at 9:30 AM in front of Lloyd Hall, the first building at the beginning of Boathouse Row. After brief introductions, we’ll begin walking at 9:45 AM.

Our route will take us past the Sea Horses Fountain and the historic Fairmount Water Works before heading onto the Schuylkill River Boardwalk. From there, we’ll continue to the JFK Boulevard Bridge, where we’ll cross over to visit 30th Street Station.

After walking through this iconic Philadelphia landmark, we’ll continue to Cira Green, a beautiful rooftop park atop an 11 story parking garage with spectacular 360° views of the city. After a short stop to admire the views, we’ll head down to the University of Pennsylvania campus, then walk along the west side of the Schuylkill River to the South Street Bridge.

We’ll cross back to the east side of the river and return to the Schuylkill River Boardwalk, heading south along the trail. We’ll cross the beautiful new suspension bridge and continue to Schuylkill Banks Grays Ferry Crescent.

For anyone who finds the pace challenging or prefers a shorter hike, you’ll have the option to turn back at the suspension bridge, shortening the hike by a little more than one mile.

From there, we’ll turn around and head back toward Boathouse Row, staying on the east side of the Schuylkill River the entire way. The views of the river and city along this portion of the hike are absolutely breathtaking.

We’ll finish where we started. At that point, you can wrap up your day or join us for something to eat and drink nearby.

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Important Notes
• Distance: Approximately 7 miles
• Pace: 3.0+ mph (moderate pace)
• Difficulty: Moderate

While the hike itself isn’t difficult, the distance and pace require a reasonable fitness level. Although we’ll do our best to keep the group together, please be aware of your own fitness level and be prepared to maintain the pace.

In the event of rain or severe weather, the hike will be canceled.

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I look forward to seeing old friends, familiar faces, and new ones. Hope you can join us! 😊

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Gear/food/drink, etc.

• Sneakers are recommended
• Wear weather-appropriate clothes
• Bring plenty of water, plus snacks to hold you over

Parking
There are several options for parking nearby. There are two paid lots and a parking garage behind the museum, and a parking lot next to Lloyd Hall. There is also street parking on Kelly Drive, as well as on Sedgley Drive, which is directly across from Lloyd Hall and runs perpendicular to Kelly Drive. I, as well as many other people, park on Sedgley Drive, although I must admit that I’m not 100% sure about the parking status on that street.
Please be aware and read all parking signs, and be especially careful not to leave anything in your car in plain sight. It’s your responsibility to be safe, to protect your belongings and to ensure that you are not ticketed or towed,

Public Transportation
There are several public transportation options that will take you to or near our Meetup location. You should be able to figure it out using either the SEPTA app or one of the GPS apps.

Waiver of Liability
By joining this hike or activity organized by Fabulous Philly Friends Meetup group, you acknowledge that outdoor activities involve risks, including injury, illness, or death. You voluntarily participate at your own risk and agree to assume full responsibility for any harm or loss you may suffer. You hereby agree to release and hold harmless Fabulous Philly Friends, its organizers, volunteers, and members from any liability, claims, or demands arising from participation, including those caused by negligence. You affirm you are physically able to participate and understand this waiver is binding. You also consent to the use of any photos taken for group purposes.