10 Bucks County Hiking Trails for the Whole Family
Bucks County has a rich heritage of outdoor recreation and trail use, which is why we've collected a list of parks with easy hiking for the whole family.
Explore Bucks County’s hiking trails, where local gardens, wooded paths, and scenic views offer family-friendly adventures. Kids can enjoy spotting wildlife, while parents relax in peaceful surroundings. Discover the perfect trail for your next outdoor outing. From easy strolls to moderate hikes, these trails provide opportunities to connect with nature.
What to Know Before Hiking in Bucks County
Before hiking in Bucks County, preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable adventure. Bear in mind these tips before heading out with the kids in tow. A little planning can help ensure a fun and stress-free experience for everyone.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Hiking shoes are ideal, but good sneakers can work for easier trails.
- Bring the bug spray: Keep biting bugs at bay with insect repellant.
- Charge your phone: Fully charge your cell phones and consider bringing a portable charger.
- Stay hydrated: Don’t forget your Stanley in the car and pack extra water.
- Pack snacks: Energy-boosting snacks like trail mix, fruit, or granola bars, will keep everyone from getting hangry.
- Plan ahead: Research your route ahead of time and bring a map.
- Dress for the weather: Wearing layers will allow you to accommodate to changing weather conditions.
- Remember safety first: Bring a small first aid kit for minor injuries.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’re guaranteed to have a memorable Bucks County hike. Wearing proper shoes, packing essentials like bug spray, snacks, and extra water can make all the difference. Don’t forget to plan your route, dress for the weather, and bring a first aid kit for peace of mind. And it’s never a bad idea to throw in nonessentials, like binoculars for birdwatching or camera for photos.
Family Hiking in Bucks County
Bucks County offers numerous family-friendly hiking trails, perfect for all skill levels. Explore scenic paths at Tyler State Park, where you can enjoy easy trails like the Neshaminy Creek Trail. The Delaware Canal Towpath provides a peaceful walk along the river, ideal for families with strollers.
For a longer adventure, head to Peace Valley Park, which features accessible trails around Lake Galena, offering beautiful views and plenty of space to explore.
1. Core Creek Park
901 Bridgetown Pike, Langhorne
Located in Langhorne, Core Creek Park offers a peaceful escape with scenic trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, or relaxing by Lake Luxembourg. With plenty of open space and activities, it’s a great spot for outdoor fun in Bucks County.
A local favorite is the park’s hidden gem, the Core Creek Park Butterfly Garden. This is a beautiful, serene spot to observe wildlife and enjoy nature. After your visit, stop by the nearby Neshaminy Mall to grab a bite at the food court.
2. High Rocks State Park Trail
150 Tory Road, Pipersville
High Rocks State Park Trail is perfect for older kids and teenagers. This section of Ralph Stover State Park offers a more challenging hike with some of the best views in East Pennsylvania. Find the main trailhead across the parking lot on Tory Road for several different trail options. Bring your gear if you’re into rock climbing.
After your hike, make sure to check out the nearby town of Pipersville. Locals recommend stopping by the Pipersville General Store for a snack or unique local finds. Another hidden gem is the Tohickon Creek, perfect for a peaceful moment after a thrilling hike.
3. Nockamixon State Park
1542 Mountain View Drive, Quakertown
Located in Quakertown, Nockamixon State Park offers miles of hiking, as well as biking, trails that lead through forests, meadows, and along the lakefront. The park features 11 trails and are marked by difficulty (easiest, more difficult to most difficult) as well as their route type. Start with their shortest path, the half mile long Tohickon Lane Trail, if you’re beginners or have young children.
Though swimming in the lake is not allowed, their pool is open in the warmer months. Jump in after a rewarding hike or boating excursion. After your adventure, don’t forget to stop by O Wow Cow Creamery in Ottsville. for one of their hand-scooped, locally-sourced ice cream flavors.
4. The Peace Valley Nature Center Trail
170 N. Chapman Road, Doylestown
Located in Doylestown, The Peace Valley Nature Center Trail is perfect for families due to its flat terrain and picturesque views of the lake. It offers more than 15 miles of trails at the northeast end of Lake Galena surrounded by streams, meadows, ponds and forest. In addition, the nature center provides year-round programs including guided walks, community events, and school field trips.
After your hike, take a short drive to the Peace Valley Lavender Farm. Enjoy the calming scent of lavender fields and shop for unique handmade lavender products. It’s a peaceful way to end a day immersed in nature.
5. Ralph Stover State Park
5998 State Park Road, Pipersville
Ralph Stover State Park, centered around Tohickon Creek, is located two miles north of Point Pleasant on State Park Road and Stump Road, in eastern Bucks County. The High Rocks area of the park features fantastic panoramic views of the Tohickon Creek Gorge. Seasoned hikers find the scenery worth the trek.
Parts of the park are also ADA accessible, so if you need accommodations, be sure to contact the park ahead of your visit. After exploring, head to the nearby Point Pleasant Railroad Station. The station makes for a charming spot where locals enjoy stopping for a quiet moment and a glimpse of the historic area.
6. Ringing Rocks Park
Ringing Rocks Road, Upper Black Eddy
Bring your own hammer to strike the boulder field in the 123-acre Ringing Rocks Park. The rocks emit unique ringing sounds when struck, creating a fun experience for visitors. At Ringing Rocks Park, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities beyond striking the famous boulders. Be sure to pack a picnic and check out Bucks County’s largest waterfall, only a short walk from the boulder field.
Hiking trails wind through the park, offering scenic views of the surrounding woodlands and Tohickon Creek. The park is also a great spot for birdwatching, with a variety of species to observe in the diverse habitats. For those looking to explore further, the area offers peaceful spots for fishing along the creek or simply relaxing by the water.
7. Tyler State Park
101 Swamp Road, Newtown
Walk the same land that the Lenape people lived and practiced agroforestry on thousands of years ago at Tyler State Park. Located in Newtown, this park offers over 1,000 acres of trails, lakes, and picnic areas as well as facilities for fishing and boating. The park, which is divided into several interesting sections by Neshaminy Creek, also offers hands-on activities, guided walks, history hikes, and workshops.
Tyler State Park is not only a hub for outdoor recreation. It is also a popular destination for family portrait photographers. With its scenic landscapes, historic stone bridges, and serene lakes, it provides the perfect backdrop for capturing special moments
8. Washington Crossing State Park
1112 River Road, Washington Crossing
Explore more than 500 years of American history at Washington Crossing State Park. The park commemorates the famous crossing by General George Washington and his army during the Revolutionary War. Each year, the park hosts thousands of visitors from around the world.
Visitors can explore the historic site, including the Washington Crossing Historic Park on the Pennsylvania side and the New Jersey side, where the army’s route began. Each year, the park hosts thousands of visitors, offering programs, reenactments, and educational experiences that bring history to life. Come see where a battered and dispirited army launched a counterattack that would lead to America’s independence.
9. Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve
1635 River Road, New Hope
Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve offers easy trails through diverse habitats, showcasing native plants and wildlife. It’s especially beautiful in spring when wildflowers are in bloom. Visitors can also enjoy guided tours that highlight the preserve’s rich biodiversity.
For a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding area, visit Bowman’s Hill Tower. Completed in 1931, the 125-foot observation tower offers breathtaking vistas of the Delaware River Valley and the surrounding forested landscape. The tower was built as a memorial to honor George Washington’s crossing of the Delaware River.
10. Delaware Canal State Park (Trail)
11 Lodi Hill Road, Upper Black Eddy
The Delaware Canal State Park Trail offers a scenic 60-mile towpath that runs alongside the historic Delaware Canal, ideal for leisurely walks or bike rides. Along the way, visitors can explore historic locks, enjoy stunning river views, and stop by charming towns like New Hope and Lambertville. These towns are known for their vibrant arts scenes, unique shops, and great dining options.
The park is also perfect for birdwatching, with numerous species inhabiting the canal and surrounding areas. For a more relaxing experience, visitors can picnic along the trail. Those looking for a unique perspective can take a boat ride on the river to explore the area from the water. With so much to offer, the Delaware Canal State Park Trail is a great spot for outdoor adventure and relaxation.
Fun Family Hiking Around Bucks County
Remember to check each location’s rules about pets before heading out if you plan to bring your furry family members. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve these beautiful natural areas for future generations. Visit the Moving to Bucks County Guide for more tips and resources for families new to the area.
Feature photo by Christine Wolkin
NO COMMENTS