The Perkiomen Trail is a 21-mile multiuse trail that runs from Oaks to Green Lane in Montgomery County. The trail generally follows the route of an old railbed in the Perkiomen Creek valley, through a varied and pretty rural landscape of woods, farmland, and historical towns and villages, with the creek a constant companion below.

The trail surface is mostly crushed stone, making it suitable for walking, bicycles (with thick tires), and strollers. Because it follows a converted railbed, the trail is level with an overall gentle grade (uphill going north, downhill going south), making it an easy ride or walk for kids of various ages. With the ever-moving creek on one side and bucolic scenery of woods, meadows, or towns on the other, the trail is a stimulating yet calming place for kids, and the wide, level trail lets them put on some speed comfortably.

The Pawlings Road trailhead is a good spot to gain access to the trail. Eleven other trailheads, including the northern end at Green Lane, are along the trail (see website for details of location and parking).

The trail passes by some towns, including Arcola, Collegeville, Schwenksville, and Spring Mount, and several parks, including Valley Forge, Lower Perkiomen Valley Park, Central Perkiomen Valley Park, Pennypacker Mills Historic Site, and Green Lane Park.

Remember: The trail may be crowded on summer weekends, making it difficult to navigate with strollers. There are a fair number of ungated road crossings, so kids need to be supervised on the ride. Dogs must be on a leash 6 feet or less in length.

Perkiomen Trail connects with the Schuylkill River Trail and Audubon Loop Trail (see Mill Grove) near the Pawlings Road trailhead, and with the Evansburg Loop Trail, which goes to Evansburg State Park.