Biking
Mountain bikers are drawn to Wissahickon Valley Park where the steep, wooded trails challenge their skills and intensify their experience of the outdoors.
While all types of bikes are allowed on Forbidden Drive, the Fairmount Park Commission requires that those using the upper trails secure a trail permit. To obtain a permit, call the Fairmount Park Commission at 215-683-0200 or visit the
Fairmount Park Commission website where you can download a copy of the Trail User Permit application and familiarize yourself with FPC’s list of trail use regulations.
A trail map and a list of trail use regulations will be provided with the trail permit. The Friends of the Wissahickon also publishes a detailed
Map illustrating the trails where bikes are permitted.
Trail use regulations prohibit the use of bikes off trails and require bikers to
relinquish the right-of-way to pedestrians (except during an organized bike race.) The regulations also require that a speed limit of 7 m.p.h. be maintained on all Wissahickon trails. To prevent erosion, the FPC requests that bikers stay off the trails for a whole day after it rains.
Communication is key to smooth interactions between equestrians and bikers. For guidelines from the Montgomery County Equine Council, click here.
The FOW has launched a major trails initiative aimed at reducing maintenance costs, alleviating user conflicts and preventing further erosion and damage to the Park. For more information, see
Sustainable Trails
Initiative.
For information on mountain biking, visit the Philadelphia Mountain Biking Association's website.
|
