The Schuylkill River Trail, a multi-use path that extends from Frackville in Schuylkill County, through Montgomery, Chester and Berks Counties to Philadelphia. It travels through the historically rich region of southeastern Pennsylvania. The trail passes through rural, agricultural, suburban, urban, and industrial landscapes. The Schuylkill River (pronounced SKOO-kill), Dutch for Hidden River, is where the American, Industrial and Environmental Revolutions were born.
Most of the trail is built over abandoned railroad lines. Today, the route consists of paved and crushed stone trails. Along its path, trail users can see evidence of several centuries of industrial development, canal navigation, railroad transportation, quarrying of limestone and iron ore, and the production of iron and steel.
Once entering the city of Philadelphia, nearing the finish of the trail you will pass the famous Philadelphia Art Museum and have the opportunity to run the "Rocky Steps" as made famous by the Sylvester Stallone "Rocky" film series.
As of April 2021 114 miles of the trail is complete.
A shorter (36 miles, 1440' elevation gain) FKT segment is from the Parkerford Access south of Pottstown to the current end of the trail in Philadelphia.
Comments
I will be attempting the Parkerford to Philadelphia FKT on the Schuylkill River Trail (SRT) this Saturday, March 30th. I plan to do it solo as a female, unsupported - but if I have last-minute support offered I will change my attempt to supported. I will be attempting it early morning into the afternoon. I look forward to exploring this section of the SRT and completing a lifelong goal of running "from my house" to Philly! Wish me luck.