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Happy Trails...
A list of places to hike/jog/explore that will both mend your inner child as well as…
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National Parks and Wildlife Refuges That I Have…
Here are some great national parks and wildlife refuges to visit
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DC PA NY
My first ever East Coast trip including Washington DC, Philadelphia and New York.…
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The Great Outdoors
The places I go to clear my head and get back in touch with nature.
Valley Forge National Historical Park
Categories: Public Services & Government Landmarks & Historical Buildings Active Life Parks Landmarks & Historical Buildings, Parks [Edit]
1400 N Outer Line DrKing of Prussia, PA 19406
(610) 783-1099
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
32 reviews for Valley Forge National Historical Park
Review Highlights
"The visitor's center parking lot had several tents."
(in 4 reviews)
"Its a beautiful park with lots of awesome trails."
(in 12 reviews)
"Following the footsteps of George Washington from Fall 1777..."
(in 4 reviews)
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32 reviews in English
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Review from Steve T.
10/18/2011
If you are into walking or jogging, then the five mile VF loop is as good as it gets. Just the right amount of hills keep it challenging, and you will pass numerous historical spots and vistas on your calorie burning sojourn.
Imho, Fall is the nicest time to go, and the wonderful weather we've enjoyed in October should compel you to put those MBT's on and get moving. There are several public restrooms that you'll encounter for the bladder-the-size-of-peanut crowd. Public parking is free and plentiful.
If it is cold, be forewarned as the temp and wind are always much colder on the loop, so wear some extra layers. Perhaps this is the ghost of Washington giving you a "chilling" reminder of the Continental Army's stay here, which was certainly not the kind of kumbaya singing camping that we all think of.Listed in: Happy Trails...
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Review from Kelly J.
10/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
After walking the education building, my group took a little drive through Valley Forge. So picturesque in the late afternoon! I especially enjoyed our stop at the Washington Memorial Chapel.
Great environment. That is enforced by the numerous exercisers in the area. The trails also offer interesting destinations throughout the park which has great appeal.
Take the time, worth the stop!Listed in: DC PA NY
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Review from rebecca s.
Philadelphia, PA
9/20/2011
So, no battle was actually fought at Valley Forge. But never you fear, here you can still trod where your forefathers trod before you! I must have failed history in my early childhood, because I swore this area was important in the Revolutionary War. Well, it turns out it was a place of huge historical significance and I learned it all on a training walk for the breast cancer 3-day walk.
Bored of walks around Kelly Drive, up and down the rivers, Wissahickon, and the usual routes for training in the city, I signed up to train with some suburban chickadees on a very chilly September morning. 15 miles would be a piece of cake compared to the previous days 18, but what I wasn't prepared for was just how hilly this park is. The beautiful thing about the hills is not just the pain you feel when you're done, but the views that they afford as you weave around the park perimeter and through the winding hiking trails. This is a seriously gorgeous mecca of outdoor activities with many people walking, running, toodling around with dogs, biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
In our travels around the park we were able to take in the sites of the winter encampment cabins of the Continental Army, Washington Memorial Chapel built to commemorate our first presidents' service to the nation, the United States Memorial Arch, as well as dozens of plaques displaying the history of the birth of our country. A welcome change to the historical sites of Old City which, though are wonderful in their own respect, get a little...well...old, when you live in the city.
The visitors center offers tours, self-guided or ranger-led, and there is a bike rental location inside the park for a days worth of fun and exercise. Neither of these I was able to partake in, instead we stuck with walking and hiking, but I will be back again to experience all that the park has to offer...perhaps a little biking and a picnic, during peak foliage I can only imagine how beautiful it will be. The army encampment of winter 1777-78 turned out some pretty badass soldiers that put Valley Forge on the map, in turn I think it turns out some pretty badass students. I can't believe it took me so many years to get out to the park, but I will be back when I have more time to amble and take in a voluntary history lesson or two since I clearly fell off a little in my earlier school days.Listed in: Parks and Recreation
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Review from Melissa A.
Philadelphia, PA
1/16/2012 2 Check-ins Here
This place is such a great find for walkers and runners. It is a pretty short drive from the city and so far I have discovered a 5-mile and a 7-mile loop that are both great for weekend-morning jaunts. The park is gorgeous and there are restrooms conveniently located around. The historical sites throughout make the walk/run that much more entertaining! I have only been there in the winter, but the wind in the park makes it really cold, so be sure to bundle up!
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Review from Kara S.
Phoenixville, PA
9/19/2011
Valley Forge Park is so versatile. It has easy to moderate trails for joggers and hikers, as well as miles of paved, open road for bikers. The surrounding area is great for picnics, sun-bathing, and even zip-lining! (I swear I saw all of these things being done here).
Valley Forge Park also holds alot of American history. There are various monuments with displays, as well as, cabins recreated to be the barracks of the Continental army. You can actually walk through these cabins. No red rope or "do not disturb" signs here. As far as services provided, there is a visitors center which includes a gift shop, an art gallery, and access to a variety of tours. One of the tours (not sure which one) lets off a series of shots from a cannon...which is pretty exciting.
A very convenient feature of Valley Forge Park is the bike-rental business that rents on an hourly or daily basis. It is located right near the main parking lot. If you are feeling super adventurous you can take that daily, rented bike (or your own) and ride the Schuylkill river trail. This trail is adjacent to the park and stretches all the way to Philly. -
Review from Vanessa L.
Harrisburg, PA
8/17/2011
If King of Prussia Mall is a mecca for the indoorsy person, Valley Forge is a mecca for the outdoorsy person one mile north. Land lovers (who love walking, hiking, and running) will find new challenges and ultimately zen with the variety of trails. Families and couples will appreciate the serene landscape the perfect place to unwind for a picnic on the meadow by the Arch. The area is also rich in history.
Every visit can bring a new, unique perspective throughout the changing seasons. It's a great place to unwind, contemplate and experience for yourself... -
Review from Phillip Y.
Des Moines, IA
Updated - 4/23/2011
6TH ANNUAL 5-MILE REVOLUTIONARY RUN (4/17/2011)
I must say that this 5-mile run was very well organized. The Friday before the run, I picked up my runner's packet at the convention center. I got my runner's bib with long electronic chip strips which would record my time accurately rather than someone reading my bib number at the finish line. Plus, I got a nice wicking shirt which is a lot nicer than the regular cotton t-shirts you normally get.
On the day of the race, all runners/walkers were picked up from Sears at the King of Prussia Mall. We were dropped off at the park entrance. There was a bathroom at the lower parking lot but was told by a volunteer to head to visitor's center. At the visitor's center, there was a very long line for women's but a short line for men's. The visitor's center parking lot had several tents. The park rangers had a table and gave me a free pedometer which was useful for the run (7575 steps in 5 miles - might be a little off). A nice breakfast table with fruits (bananas, oranges, and apples) and bottled water was there and fully stocked.
After finishing the race, yogurt with granola was provided by a local restaurant. Trader Joe's had a table and gave out breakfast bars and trail mix. There was another table that gave free reusable water bottles and athletic bags. The only one downside was the bus ride back to the mall parking lot. We had to wait in the bus until the runners/walkers cleared which took 15-20 minutes. Other than that, this was so much fun and wonderful sponsors to provide breakfast, nice wicking shirt, electronic tracking bibs, and pedometers.Listed in: National Parks and Wildlife…, Hiking Near Philadelphia
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/5/2011
This park is 10 minutes away from and so convenient. I am lucky that this park is so close by which… Read more »
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Review from Tom S.
3/4/2011 5 photos
Forget about the history. This gorgeous, sprawling park is a maker of memories, an enricher of healthy childhoods and a testament to the importance of conservation.
These 3,500 acres of protected land have been the same since I was a little boy with my grandmother, watching a group of old men who meet here every week to fly remote control model airplanes. They were the same through every long, peaceful nature walk along the park's many hiking trails with my mother as I grew up. Every girl I've ever loved has sat with me here on a picnic blanket and laughed and smiled with me. And my kids, when they come along, will be able to have those exact same experiences in their own way, on their own time.
This is why I love the National Park Service.Listed in: The Great Outdoors
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Review from Hunter B.
Philadelphia, PA
5/22/2011 7 Check-ins Here
You'll find so many options here -- walking, running, hiking, photography, biking, history, etc. -- that every visit can be a totally different experience, especially throughout the changing seasons.
After coming to Valley Forge for years, I still find new things to do, from black and white photography in the woods in the winter, to jogging the Joseph Plumb Martin trail and a light hike up to the observatory on Mt. Joy in spring, to picking up new history tidbits from the very knowledgeable national park staffers working at the George Washington house.
Best bets? For history buffs, the cabins, cannons, landmarks and statues are all close to the main roads and easy to spot. For running, walking or biking, the paved trails that run alongside and weave through those same roads, make a fine choice. Parking in the lot by the Von Stueben statue is a fine starting point for a 6-mile loop on the Plumb Martin trail.
For moderate hiking, the Mt. Joy and Mt. Misery trails aren't too long or challenging, so they're good for families, and the stone ruins on the Mt. Misery trail along the creek that feeds Valley Creek are a cool pitstop. There are parking areas at the foot of each, by the trailheads, both near the covered bridge.
And before or after a visit, there are countless options nearby for refueling: Kabab Cafe, Five Guys, Mesa Grill in Gateway Center; Iron Hill Brewery in Phoenixville; and plenty of spots in King of Prussia. -
Review from May T.
Philadelphia, PA
8/19/2010
How lovely is this place? Let's just say I used to skip classes in high school and hang out here instead.
With that aside, the scenery is gorgeous in both winter & summer. The trails are awesome, everything is oh-so scenic and it's just a very relaxing time strolling through this park.
Valley Forge is a huge park filled with trees, water and of course deer. The deer roam everywhere and you're likely to step in their droppings when you're crossing the massive fields of grass.
The history behind this place is also something to definitely value- there's plenty of historic locations to check out and take lovely photos of.
I enjoy the driving through the park as much as I enjoy walking through it. During the winter months when there's massive amounts of snow, remember to whip out your sleds and go at it on any one of the hills you can find at Valley Forge.
The place never gets old, it is always a calm and inviting park! -
Review from Matt B.
Wayne, NJ
8/17/2011
A decent, well-run park with fascinating history. The attempt at a Cell Phone Tour was a good idea however distracting and annoying with all the dialing you must do. Also most cell phone speakers aren't so well-equipped. Nonetheless the area was great. With marvelous and never-boring history. On the negative side, there wasn't a short amount of bees/wasps living in the huts.
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Review from Dave H.
10/29/2008
The Valley Forge National Historical Park - besides being a mouthful - is a scenic place to exercise, run, take your dog walking at, and to safely bike in. (Even driving is pleasant! Parking and walking is recommended.) The views are fantastic, and it's fun to come out and do some nature photography, if you're into that.
The park is host to cultural and community service cleanup events. There's a visitor center ("Welcome Center") and you can get a self-guided audio tour or leader-led one if you like. Unlike parks like Yosemite, this park isn't usually inundated with tourists.
If you go, check out the log cabin recreations, Washington's Headquarters, and the Washington Memorial Chapel. Picnic by the nifty Masons Arch while you're at it!Listed in: Historical Goodness in Philly
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Review from Lorena L.
Mesa, AZ
9/29/2009
So many deer just frolicking about this huge park.
There were a lot of people walking and jogging. Not sure how they do it as I could barely breath with the humidity here. But it looks like a great place to take a bike ride too and have a picnic.
We didn't have much time to spend here so we decided to take a drive through (it's free). Looks like from some of the other reviews we missed so pretty neat sights, but the National Memorial Arch was definitely worth a stop. -
Review from Jen R.
Philadelphia, PA
7/22/2009 3 photos
My goal here was to get pictures of deer. You see, I'm from the city so I don't see live deer very often. The only deer I see is lying dead on the side of I-76 :(
I'm newly into photography so off to Valley Forge Park I went after work. Valley Forge park is very pretty and finding deer was easier than I thought. They blend into the grass very well but there were many deer walking around and crossing the streets.
I saw a couple of pretty birds as well including Blue Jay, Blue Bird, may have seen a humming bird and Baltimore Oriole among others.
This is a great place for a stroll or a bike ride. The park offers bike rentals near the office. I'd like to go back and find the river trail.
They also do historical tours here as well. -
Review from Aron G.
King of Prussia, PA
5/2/2010
There's very little not to love about one of America's most historical parks and recreation centers. I've been living near the park, and made it a point to go as much as I can, and love every visit no matter what I do.
My primary use of the park is for its trails. The ones I use start along the river and then go in and follow the main roads. Very few veer away from the roads, and although this is probably for safety purposes, I would love to not have to breathe pollution and exhaust while trying to jog. Best of all, you're passing literal history as this was where George Washington camped his Revolutionary Army in 1777. Paths are littered with landmarks, graves, statues, guideposts, and signs, making any jog an educational and historical experience.
I happened to stumble upon the Visitor's Center this week which boasts art galleries, history lessons, an impressive and reasonable gift shop and self-guided audio tours. Next door is a theater, where families bounded into to learn more about America's Revolution. Thankfully, I also came across a ranger-guided walking tour...though a little boring, the Ranger explained in detail to children and adults alike the history of the park itself and some of the battlements it featured. We ended up at some recreated log cabins that hold displays and also a celebration of the French alliance, where locals were dressed up in authentic costumes and firing off fake weaponry. It's all good family fun!
In the summer time, everyone seems to take advantage of the trails, the picnic and recreational offerings and the various bike paths. If you're looking for a great family time, or even a nice place to stroll or picnic with that special someone, I highly recommend Valley Forge Park. -
Review from Brett B.
6/10/2008 5 photos
What is the importance of Valley Forge? Well, while not many people died from hypothermia or starvation, they did lose an overwhelming amount of people due to disease.
Valley Forge is where the northern colonial forces learned how to come together and function as a cohesive military unit.
Spend the $11 and take the trolley tour, which includes two stops where actors will give you a glimpse into what was going on back when Washington was keeping his eyes on Philadelphia.
There is also a mobile business in the parking lot, where you can rent bikes. Valley Forge is encompassed by acres of green, which enhances your riding experience. -
Review from Gary A.
Milford, PA
10/16/2010
My family decided we would go here for Father's Day (2010) since I am a huge history buff and it was well worth it. Be sure to bring your walking shoes becuase this area spans about 7-10 miles. There is a bus that stops at certain places, there are bikes for rent and other means to get around, but we decided to hoof it and see the sites.
There is a good area to gather where the gift shop is, along with an area that has a short 15 minutes documentary movie about Valley Forge. The sites reanged from houses where the different trrops were stationed, to General Washington's Quarters, to some live reenactors that were telling us different facts about the trrops and the different materials, weapons and conditions that each soldier had to deal with.
All in all, a very cool place to visit. If you are a Revolutionary War buff, this is a good place to go. -
Review from Steven H.
King of Prussia, PA
4/18/2008
This is a regular hang out of mine since moving out to the suburbs. It is very well maintained with a main trail and several smaller ones that lead you through a tour of an important episode in American history.
I walk the main trail regularly. Along the way you can find the visitor's center, with all the info you could want on Washington's Army. This is a really nice place to stop in and look around. There are revolutionary era cabins, gun redoubts, model 3 and 4 lb canons in the artillery park and elsewhere. Several monuments and statues are set up along the way. There are three main parking areas with water fountains, soda machines, and picnic tables.
I would avoid the parking area near the artillery park since it is a hangout for creepy guys who are too cheap to just get a hotel room. They usually just stare a lot but occasionally have really harassed people. Watch your kids.
There are plenty of friendly regulars who I see all the time. The weekends are a bit more crowded and as you would guess, not as friendly. Nothing bad, just not the usual familiarity. There is one local newscaster who has been seen there and she is basically a bitch to everyone.
Please, if you are biking, respect the pedestrians. I have spoken to several people, especially older walkers, who have nearly been run over by over zealous bikers. Calm down Lance!
See you on the trails. -
Review from Jay N.
8/28/2009
A MUST see for anyone remotely interested in Colonial history, military history or just if you're a proud American.
No need for the trolley tour, take a drive around the park, countless, beautiful deer are everywhere.
And whoever the National Park Service ranger tour guide was giving the overview of Washington's home/headquarters on the park site, KUDOS! We fell in love with this guy who jumped and flailed his arms about in excitement as he explained the significance of the house to who we all are now and the fact we were standing there. I hear he's a teacher the rest of the year but THAT guy needs to be a national leader.
I visited Valley Forge as a way to take a road trip and spend a day, but I left with a new perspective on my country, even for a typically proud, flag-waving American like myself.
Excellent site also for a free 'staycation' or to walk/jog the miles of sleepy lanes winding through this gem of a park, a real first class American treasure. Okay, I'll stop now. ;-) -
Review from Nicci G.
Phoenixville, PA
4/13/2011
Valley Forge is one of the best parks in the world! Im lucky enough to live only 5 minutes away. I go there all the time! Its a beautiful park with lots of awesome trails. My dog and I go once a week in the summer so she can go swimming in the creek. I would totally recommend this park to anyone who is a history freak because there is tons of stuff here like The George Washington house where he stayed during his time here. I sometimes go up to his house and knock at the door. Nothing ever happens haha. There are also models of the cabins of what George Washingtons crew stayed in. There are also many kinds of wildlife at the park like deer but if your a tourist please park off to the side if you see a deer and dont randomly stop in the middle of the road!!
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Review from Colleen M.
Philadelphia, PA
10/6/2009
Valley Forge is a great place to take a walk, learn about history and see deer.
If you are planning on riding a bike during the day on the weekends, be prepared to dodge little kids, dogs and slow walkers all over the paved trail. I would recommend riding in the road if you are planning on riding fast. -
Review from Paul W.
Pasadena, CA
10/12/2009 1 photo
Following the footsteps of George Washington from Fall 1777 to Spring 1778, this is a must stop. Take your time, and walk around the park, look at the rolling green fields, and the hills loaded with trees in the area. When these guys arrived with little, the soldiers had to build the log cabin to stay in,cut the logs down, find some food, and bunker down for the winter.
The museum at the visitors center has some good historical pieces to look at. The movie was very good telling you of what was happening during this time period.
I walked and I drove. Both ok. The classical music I had on set a good mood.
On to Washington Crossing Park... -
Review from Chris R.
10/24/2010 8 photos
Being a King of Prussia/Valley Forge native, I have not been able to live my life, literally, without this place. When I lived abroad, I missed it tons and couldn't wait to return. It is humongous, verdant, and full of blessed Nature. Was there today, as a matter of fact.
Listed in: Before you die...
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Review from Charles S.
Ambler, PA
1/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
A mid-winter treat. Took some time and explored its open space. It was great to see so many active during the January cold.
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Review from David F.
Phoenixville, PA
3/14/2008
It is a huge park and a national treasure. Just the vastness of this open space is impressive being so close to the King of Prussia Mall, yet remaining untouched by developers and moguls. This is the suburbs version of Kelly Drive. If you're visiting make sure you bring some picnic supplies and relax and enjoy yourself (that's what it's for). Since our store is only 3 miles outside the park I am often there just taking in all of the beauty.
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Review from Danan R.
5/2/2010
Excellent for a scenic run or biking expedition. The air is wonderful and the view absolutely magnificent. It's also a great place for a picnic. For those of you who love history (I am one of them, for sure), the cabins, canons, and memorial chapels are must-sees. I would highly suggest following up a visit to Independence Hall with a trip here.
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Review from Michael K.
Scotch Plains, NJ
6/1/2009 3 photos
This was the first state park in Pennsylvania, and is now part of the National Park system. Entrance is free, and there's lots to see and do here.
The house and train station have been beautifully renovated. The place oozes with history, and walking where American Revolutionary war troops lived and trained is inspiring. Every American should make an effort to visit out of respect for those that sacrificed everything to make our country free.
A small contingent of actors dressed in period garb explain about the unforms and equipment, and demonstrate the weapons that the colonial soldiers used. Park rangers stationed at the major areas of the park give historical insight and answer questions.
You can explore the park on your own by car, bike, or on foot, or on the free shuttle bus. There's also a guided trolley tour for a modest fee. This is worthwhile for tourists.
The displays in the visitor's center are filled with historical artifacts and artwork. There's also an unusual display of fossils of extinct animals discovered at a nearby archeological site which I found very interesting. -
Review from Ryan W.
New York, NY
4/22/2011
I used to live less than a mile away and this Park ended up as probabaly my favorite place in the entire Philly area. I know there is a lot of history involved here but you really don't need it to appreciate a place like this (IMHO anyway). Just outside the city, it's a giant beautiful park with plenty of space to stretch out, take a walk, have a picnic, walk your dog, splash in the creek or just kick back and relax. There are excellent trails - both dirt and paved in and around the open fields of the park and several that go back through the woods (check out the horseshoe trail - it goes all the way out to Harrisburg and is a great hike!!) Cool little cabins everywhere and it doesnt get too crowded (probabaly because its gigantic!). Around sundown you will see entire herds (sometimes 100+) of these little miniature deer! (Where do things go in the day time!??) Great place to run or bike or my personal fav. take your top off!! (of your jeep I mean of course and your doors while youre at it) and just go cruising! This place is beautiful you will love it!
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Review from Eugene H.
9/8/2009
This is a great park for walking or biking. There's plenty of trails and open space to have a picnic or play some lawn games as well. On top of that, you have a high percentage to see deer grazing.
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Review from Caroline V.
New York, NY
3/2/2010
Back in the day when i used to jog...or rollerblade...or do those active things that keep one healthy and fit...This was a fave spot. Good to go to during lunch or after work. There's always people out and about being active or just taking in the historic scenery. Whether you want to check out deer (there's TONS), the historic site (canons, cabins, memorials) or just be active...drive on in, park and have a great time!
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Review from Erin G.
Dorchester, MA
8/13/2005 5 photos
This is a HUGE park and the automobile encampment tour was fun. It took us over an hour to get through it and you can get out of your car and experience some of what George Washington's troops did. There were deer so close that you could almost touch them and they weren't afraid. It was awesome. We didn't go in Washington's homestead (you have to pay like $3 for that) but everything else is free. It was fun. The chapel was gorgeous. The visitors center there was informative and there was also an AM radio station, but it didn't come in throughout the whole area.
Listed in: Philly Tourist Places to Go
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Review from Tom S.
Berwyn, PA
2/19/2011
A great place to visit, hike and bike ride!
