Wetland Loop Trail w/ Big Boardwalk Detour

March 21, 2026

by avatar @odawgie

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

Easy

Distance 6.19 km
Est. duration 03h 13m
Elevation Gain 154 m
Elevation Loss 156 m
Category Hiking

Description

A beginner-friendly hike through a mixture of marshy wetland and flood-plain forest, with a stretch following along the Darby creek. The trail is wide and relatively flat, and features several boardwalks and lookouts perfect for spotting some of the many bird species native to this wetland habita

Route

Start

Big Boardwalk
39.89005, -75.26061

longest boardwalk of the route, cutting across the wetland and featuring several widened lookout sections with benches; perfect for stopping to watch the birds (and sometimes turtles)

Lookout #1
39.88824, -75.26198

a small boardwalk offshoot from the trail where you can get a slightly closer look at the wetland

Lookout #2
39.88617, -75.26224

a large two-tiered lookout where one can see much of the wetland, as well as a view of the airport and nearby train tracks; features a set of floor-mounted binoculars and several benches. There is a public restroom nearby, and the lower deck of the lookout structure provides a good place to shelter from the sun on hot days

Lookout #3
39.88156, -75.26648

a small lookout in the middle of a marsh, connected to the trail by another boardwalk; this lookout once again has benches, and a roof to shelter from the sun or rain

6.19 km

Finish