5 Preserves, 1 Trail Connection is Now Open

After decades of planning and collaboration, Wissahickon Trails is proud to announce the completion of our 5 Preserves, 1 Trail initiative. This project creates a continuous 9-mile trail segment of the Green Ribbon Trail that connects five nature preserves across Whitpain and Whitemarsh Townships. This milestone represents years of partnership with public and private
supporters, including Whitpain Township, PECO, Montgomery County, PA DCNR, and countless generous donors who contributed $4.2 million to make this vision a reality.

Since 2018, we've preserved 51 additional acres of open space, acquired two critical trail easements, and invested in thoughtful enhancements like an equestrian bridge and stepping-stone crossings at Prophecy Creek. The final connection, made possible through a trail easement at Willow Lake Farm and completed with support from PECO and a donation honoring Phil and Barbara
Albright, now links 436 acres of protected land for everyone to enjoy.

This achievement reflects our deep commitment to ensuring that everyone who lives and works in the Wissahickon watershed can access nature close to home. We're grateful to residential property owners, especially the Lea family at Willow Lake Farm, whose decades of generosity; from conservation easements in 1993 to the recent trail easement; exemplifies the power of sharing private land for public benefit. Their willingness to open their property allows trail visitors to walk seamlessly between Armentrout Preserve, Camp Woods, Briar Hill Preserve, Willow Lake Preserve, and Prophecy Creek Park, creating an interconnected network of natural spaces that serve as havens for both wildlife and people.

This upcoming spring, we're thrilled to announce a series of hikes to celebrate and explore this new connection, co-led by local and community leaders who are committed to preserving access to nature for all who live and work in the Wissahickon Watershed. These guided walks will offer an opportunity to experience the full 9-mile trail system and learn about the natural and cultural history of the preserves. Stay tuned for specific dates, which will be announced in early 2026.

Looking ahead, we're also excited to build on this momentum by connecting the 5 Preserves trail system to the Green Ribbon Trail along the Wissahickon Creek and the Cross County Trail, a major regional route spanning the Philadelphia suburbs. These connections will further expand access to the natural landscape that makes our communities such special places to live, work, and play.

As we continue this work, we remain committed to bringing together public and private partners to protect the habitats and ecosystems that benefit us all, ensuring that open space remains accessible for generations to come.