The PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)  named Forbidden Drive 2018 Trail of the Year.

Forbidden Drive: Trail of the Year

The Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee designates a Trail of the Year to help build support and raise awareness of Pennsylvania’s trail network.

It’s quite a popular park for the honor. The Wissahickon Valley is visited by more than 1 million people each year.

According to Friends of Wissahickon (FOW) Executive Director Maura McCarthy, in a press release, “We’re thrilled that the beautiful and historic Forbidden Drive has been named Trail of the Year. The name belies this urban oasis that welcomes visitors of all ages on foot, bikes, or horseback to enjoy the wonders of nature that Friends of the Wissahickon works to conserve.” 

FOW partners with 40 or more organizations and 1,000 volunteers a year that contribute more than 12,000 volunteer hours annually to maintain Forbidden Drive and the park.

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher