Run, Row or Ride along the River

Trails, water, beautiful scenery and weather – what more could you ask for as inspiration to get out and get active? How about great groups, resources and access to make your outdoor adventure even easier?

Positioned on the river and adjacent to historic recreational trails, with amenities to boot, East Falls and Manayunk are havens for outdoor activities and make great jumping off points. Gateway centers at both locations (4312 Main Street in Manayunk and Trolley Car Café at the Bathey in East Falls) feature trail maps and interactive kiosks that will help you better understand your options. What could be better than meeting up with your compatriots for a cup of joe before heading off for a day of being outdoors, or finishing up a satisfying day with a lovely meal at an outdoor café? What’s more, convenient parking lots make it easy to park and unload your gear (or stow and stash it while you get some sustenance).

The Schuylkill River Trail makes its way through East Falls along Kelly Drive and through Manayunk via surface roads and the Manayunk Canal Towpath. Eventually it will be possible to hike or bike the 140 miles from the headwaters of the river to Philadelphia, but for now walkers, runners and bicyclists can head out to Valley Forge via the trail, or down to Center City and back. Yet another option along this section of riverfront is to connect with hiking and mountain biking trails along the Wissahickon Creek. Cross-river connections with the Cynwyd Heritage Trail are also in the works, which will connect Philadelphia and Lower Merion Township and expand already substantial recreational options.

Those who prefer to be on the water, as opposed to beside it, will find various boating options from rowing to kayaking to dragonboating. Rowing along the Schuylkill has long been a Philadelphia tradition and regattas are a common sight below East Falls on the Schuylkill. But perhaps less seen is the section of water above East Falls, which has won the hearts of paddling devotees. For those into kayaking and canoeing, the Philadelphia Canoe Club calls this section of river home. For those interested in the sport of dragonboating, the Manayunk Dragon Boat Team and Tsunami Dragons make Manayunk their training base. Here are some quick tips for getting active with minimal fuss and experience:

RUN – Need running gear? Bryn Mawr Running Company has a spot at Main and Cotton Streets, and even hosts Thursday night runs through Manayunk and its environs.

RIDE - Bicycle rentals can be found at Human Zoom at 4159 Main Street in Manayunk and at Valley Forge Bike Rentals located at the Bathey in East Falls at Kelly Drive and N. Ferry Road.

ROW – Check out the Hidden River kayak tours that happen every Sunday, leaving from the Manayunk Brewery and Restaurant or try out dragonboating – the Manayunk women’s team, the Tsunami Dragons, offers the chance for you to get out on the water a couple of times and try it out before committing.

Or, why not just take in the fresh air and take a stroll along the river?