About Friends of the Wissahickon
The Friends of the Wissahickon (FOW), official park partner of Philadelphia Parks and Recreation, conserves and improves the 1,800-acre Wissahickon Valley Park. FOW works to mitigate stormwater runoff into the watershed, reduce erosion, and address the impacts on the native habitat posed by climate change. In an era of shrinking public funding, FOW and its volunteers respond quickly, effectively, and thoughtfully to the most pressing habitat, infrastructure, and engagement needs of the park and make the Wissahickon more accessible for all who visit. Membership dollars and volunteers support FOW’s work to sustain this special urban oasis for current and future generations.
Volunteer Stewardship
With substantially increased visitorship and a decrease in much of the necessary resources required to support the Wissahickon Valley Park, we have more need than ever for volunteers to steward the park, creek, and wildlife of the Wissahickon. FOW volunteers conduct trash clean-ups, restore habitat, and repair trails and historic park structures as well as providing educational programming to our park community: join us as a volunteer today!
Become a member
Join a community of over 2,600 like-minded individuals who care for and support Wissahickon Valley Park, a community treasure of 1,800-acres of wooded gorge within the city of Philadelphia. Our members are vital advocates for the Wissahickon Valley Park and a powerful voice for the watershed - as a member of Friends of the Wissahickon, you can help preserve one of Philadelphia’s most precious natural resources for future generations. Become a member today!
All Trails Challenge
The All Trails Challenge is back for our 6th year! From now until November 30, ATC challengers make their way through the park by hiking, biking, riding, or walking all 50 miles of trails in the Wissahickon. Rather than a race, it's an opportunity to see areas of the park that you haven't seen before – and as our challengers go, they get support from family and friends to conserve the Wissahickon and earn extremely cool prizes along the way. Explore all the park has to offer through the All Trails Challenge!