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Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk
4.8 ★★★★★ 232 Google reviews · Running trail in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Boardwalk
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk'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.
This continuation of the Schuylkill River Trail extends over water & offers scenic lookout points.
What runners say about Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk
“It’s clean, has great views of the city and is always busy enough that it feels safe.”
“Running from the beautiful Bartram Gardens in Southwest Phila up through Fairmount it’s a beautiful run/jog/walk that allows a great break from the hustle and bustle of the city.”
“It is a nice flat and paved trail that is perfect for going for a stroll or run.”
“This boardwalk isn’t just a path; it’s a destination where the vibrant pulse of the city meets the serene flow of the Schuylkill River.”
This is a continuation of the schuylkill trail that goes out into the river. It’s a great place to walk! It’s clean, has great views of the city and is always busy enough that it feels safe.
This trail is great for walking or riding bike or sitting to read a book. Very clean and relaxing with awesome views of city.
The Schuykill Banks Boardwalk is an amazing place for a leisurely stroll. Our journey began at the art museum, where we embarked on a pleasant 2.5-mile walk from the back parking lot to the boardwalk's end. Over the years, I have witnessed the transformation of this area into a fantastic spot for physical activity.
One of few places to enjoy the beautiful Philly view! Very nice clean and calm place. An entrance through Locust St leads to the boardwalk. Benches available along the boardwalk to enjoy the view. One can also rent a bike from Indigo bike share station from S 25th Street.
Trail conditions & character
“Running from the beautiful Bartram Gardens in Southwest Phila up through Fairmount it’s a beautiful run/jog/walk that allows a great break from the hustle and bustle of the city.”
“If you’ve been in Phila and haven’t made you r way over to the Schuylkill Banks Trail/Boardwalk you are missing out!”
“Parking is a tough job but street parking nearby would be best on any lanes available.”
Plan your run at Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceBoardwalk — flat and scenic, and slick when wet, so watch your footing
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Philadelphia
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 Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,929 reviews
This park runs along the river & offers a playground, paved paths, sports areas, a pool & a dog run.
Schuylkill Banks
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,579 reviews
Riverside park featuring a jogging/biking trail, plus benches, a 9/11 memorial & skyline views.
Grays Ferry Crescent
4.4 ★★★★☆ 16 reviews
Schuylkill River Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 118 reviews
Riverfront spot for walking or biking along a well-maintained trail with city views.
Grays Ferry Crescent Trail Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 276 reviews
Urban green space with river & skyline views, hiking & biking path, a skate park & fishing areas.
