The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Reading

Reading offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with 7 routes featured in this guide. These range from easy strolls perfect for younger children to moderate hikes for more active families.

Yes, there are several easy options. The Blue Dot Trail is a very short and gentle path, ideal for little legs. For a slightly longer but still easy option, consider the Wyomissing Creek and Schuylkill River Trail Loop, which offers pleasant riverside scenery.

The Reading area features diverse terrain, from flat, multi-use paths along rivers and canals to rolling hills and woodlands. You'll find trails along the Schuylkill River and Wyomissing Creek, as well as more elevated paths on features like Neversink Mountain. The region's geology, part of the Reading Prong, means some areas can be rugged, but the family-friendly routes in this guide are generally well-maintained and accessible.

Yes, several routes in this guide are circular, making them convenient for families. The Neversink Mountain Orange Loop is a moderate circular hike offering varied scenery. Another great option is the Wyomissing Creek and Schuylkill River Trail Loop, which is an easy circular path.

Reading's trails offer a variety of sights. You can explore the historic Wertz's Covered Bridge, enjoy the scenic Schuylkill River Trail, or visit the iconic Reading Pagoda, which offers panoramic views from atop Mount Penn. The region also boasts natural features like Wyomissing Creek and the diverse landscapes of Neversink Mountain.

While the trails in this guide don't specifically feature large waterfalls, the region is home to Antietam Lake Park, which has streams and a small waterfall, offering a lovely natural setting. Many routes, like the Wyomissing Creek and Schuylkill River Trail Loop, follow pleasant waterways.

The family-friendly trails around Reading are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from 31 ratings. Hikers often praise the accessibility of the paths, the beautiful natural scenery, and the variety of options suitable for different ages and activity levels, making it easy to find a perfect outing for the whole family.

Many areas in Reading are served by public transport, and some trailheads may be accessible. For example, the Union Canal Trail runs through populated areas, potentially offering closer access points. However, for specific route access, it's best to check local bus schedules and route maps in relation to your chosen trailhead.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many popular recreation areas like Gring's Mill Recreation Area, Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center, and Angelica Creek Park offer dedicated parking facilities. For trails like the Orange Loop on Neversink Mountain, you can often find parking at designated trail access points. Always check specific route details or local park information for the most accurate parking advice.

Yes, the natural areas around Reading are rich in wildlife. Parks like Angelica Creek Park are known as havens for diverse native wildlife. French Creek State Park, a larger forested area nearby, is even designated an Important Bird Area, making it excellent for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for various bird species, small mammals, and other local fauna along the trails, especially in quieter woodland sections.

Spring and autumn are generally ideal for family hikes in Reading. In spring, the woodlands burst with new growth and wildflowers, while autumn offers stunning foliage colors. Summer can be pleasant, but be mindful of warmer temperatures and insects. Winter hikes are also possible, especially on well-maintained paths, but be prepared for potentially muddy or icy conditions.