6 Gorgeous Philly-Area Hikes Near Breweries

Spend your weekends exploring great hikes near breweries.

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Living in a large city like Philly, going on a hike isn’t as easy as strapping on some boots and stepping out the door. Nope, many hikes — as gorgeous and rewarding as they may be — require planning, and often, a drive to get to a trailhead. That’s why we think if you’re going to spend time making your way to some of the area’s prettiest trails, you might as well make a day of it.

And what better way to make a day of hiking than to reward your efforts with a trip to a craft brewery afterwards? Here to help you plan your weekends ahead is Carl Ewald, founder of Run Fest, race director for the Great American Brewery Runs, and expert hike guide. Below, find six different hikes near breweries where you can spend your Saturdays scouting great vistas and drinking delicious brews.

Drive from Philly: 1 hour 41 minutes

The Hike: “Hawk Mountain is probably the best vista in the state for fall foliage,” says Ewald. “I recommend making a real hike out of it by exploring the trails below the summit first.”

The Brewery: Though it’s an hour away, Sly Fox Brewing Company is right en route to Hawk Mountain. Ewald recommends making a stop on the way home – or the way there, and bringing some cans with you. “Their Royal Weisse and Oktoberfest beers are perfect for autumn weather hiking,” says Ewald.

Drive from Philly: 1 hour 30 minutes

The Hike: “This hike definitely is one of the best foliage hikes you can find,” says Ewald. “It is not easy. The loop will take you across eight miles and up over 1000 feet in elevation. But it is definitely worth it. Both lookouts will have perfect views of the valley in all its fall glory.”

The Brewery: About 50 minutes away is Hidden River Brewing Company, where you can make a stop on the way. “This nano brewery excels at IPAs and has a great setting along the river,” says Ewald. “Just be aware, on Sundays they don’t serve food.”

Drive from Philly: 1 hour 45 minutes

The Hike: “Nestled along the Susquehanna in the middle of nowhere, this hike has scenic terrain and spectacular views,” says Ewald. “You will start hiking through the gorge along Kelly Run before climbing sharply to a tremendous vista over looking the Susquehanna.”

The Brewery: Located around 40 minutes from the trail on the way from Philly is Hollow Earth Brewing Company. “The brewer does a great job of experimenting with new styles and providing some top-quality beers,” says Ewald.

Drive from Philly: 45 minutes

The Hike: “When you don’t have much time, Ridley Creek is the perfect chance to enjoy fall hiking close to the city,” says Ewald. “The elevation change is limited but the park is stunning.”

The Brewery: “La Cabra Brewing is only a short 15-minute drive away,” says Ewald. “Their food is as good as their beer. Plan to grab lunch here as well.”



Drive from Philly: 2 hours

The Hike: “Mount Tammany is one of the best hikes in the region. It is short, but steep. You will go up more than 1,200 feet in less than two miles,” says Ewald. “Once you’re done huffing and puffing at the top, the rock outcropping has excellent views of the Delaware River and the Pennsylvania side of the water gap.”

The Brewery: Swing by Funk Brewing, an hour southwest of the trail, on the way home. “Visit their Elizabethtown tap room, which has a full menu of food to pair with your beers,” suggests Ewald.

The Hike: “Mount Minsi is one of my favorite hikes in Pennsylvania. But, I must admit that half of the reason is for the pie. Do not leave Mount Minsi without stopping at the Village Farmer,” says Ewald. “There are three great vistas along the trail. You will reach a false summit at about 2.5 miles in. This large rock outcropping has spectacular views of Mount Tammany. Most hikers don’t realize there is a third vista — continue a couple hundred feet further and you earn a completely different view from the other side of the mountain.”

The Brewery: An hour south of the trail is Separatist Beer Project, where you can stop for refreshments. “It has a great little tasting room right on the waterfront,” says Ewald.

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