Home › Pennsylvania › Reading › Exeter Scenic River Trail
Exeter Scenic River Trail
4.6 ★★★★★ 61 Google reviews · Running trail in Reading, Pennsylvania · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- 2 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Exeter Scenic River Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Gravel trail for walking or biking alongside the Schuylkill River, ending at a railroad tunnel.
What runners say about Exeter Scenic River Trail
“The Exeter Scenic River Trail is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful walk along the river, surrounded by trees and a relaxing atmosphere.”
“The Exeter Scenic River Trail is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful walk along the river, surrounded by trees and a relaxing atmosphere.”
“Highly recommended for all ages.”
My wife and I love this trail. It goes on for miles and is very relaxing and lush. The gravel is easy on the knees and there is tons of wildlife in the area. Today I saw this lil guy, as well as some geese, a chipmunk, and a snake on the side of the river. I’d recommend this trail to anyone looking for a relaxing walk.
I discovered this fine trail on Google Maps and went over to check it out on Tuesday October 11, 2022. I had no trouble parking on this beautiful fall morning. After parking, I grabbed my camera and started walking. I ended up walking to the tunnel. That area gave me the creeps.
Exeter River is ideal if you're looking for a tidy 4.5- 5 mile run or a nice location to walk the dog or a bike ride with the kids. Conveniently located off Gibraltar Road, the fine gravel trail is easy to navigate and well maintained.
The Exeter Scenic River Trail is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful walk along the river, surrounded by trees and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s great for walking, biking, taking your dog, or simply disconnecting from noise. The terrain is easy but has some gravel sections, so good shoes are recommended.
Trail conditions & character
“The Exeter Scenic River Trail is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful walk along the river, surrounded by trees and a relaxing atmosphere.”
“This is a nice crushed stone non-rail trail that runs right along the Schuylkill river, but it is only about 2 1/2 miles long, one direction.”
“If it wasn't for the rough parking which can get muddy at times, I'd give this park 5 stars.”
“It’s great for walking, biking, taking your dog, or simply disconnecting from noise.”
“The Exeter Scenic River Trail is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful walk along the river, surrounded by trees and a relaxing atmosphere.”
“Paved/gravel, well maintained, wide path to pass- great views, it's getting prettier with fall.”
“A canoe/kayak launch, dog waste station, and distance markers have been redone.”
Plan your run at Exeter Scenic River Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Distance2 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitevisitpaamericana.com
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–6 pm |
Running trails near Reading
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Schuylkill River Trail Charles N. Marshall Trailhead
4.5 ★★★★★ 23 reviews
Neversink Loop
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Hiking area featuring a 6-mi. loop trail offering river and forest views.
Witches Hat
4.5 ★★★★★ 237 reviews
Park with scenic views featuring a pavilion and well-marked trails for easy hiking.
Pendora Park
4.2 ★★★★☆ 458 reviews
Public park with play areas, sports facilities & pavilion & event venue rentals.
