White Trail
The White Trail is a 4.3-mile loop at Ridley Creek State Park, marked with white blazes and rated "more difficult" by Pennsylvania DCNR for its grades, roots and rocks. It meanders through the park, and DCNR says it can be used to link to other trails, which makes it a good base for a longer walk. The trailhead has modern restrooms, picnic tables and benches. Hiking only: no bikes or horses.
White Trail at a Glance
What the White Trail Is Like
DCNR describes the White Trail as a meandering loop through the park that can be used to link to other trails. Expect dirt tread through mature woods of oak, beech, tulip poplar and sycamore (the trees DCNR names as the park's canopy). It is a loop, so you finish where you started.
As an estimate, at 2 miles an hour the full loop takes a little over two hours. Add time for stops and for muddy sections after rain.
Where to Start
DCNR does not name a single trailhead for the White Trail; because it loops through the park, you can join it wherever it meets another trail or a picnic area. DCNR lists modern restrooms, picnic tables and benches at its trailhead. Open the DCNR park map, find where the white line runs closest to a picnic-area lot, and park there. Parking is free (Parking & Directions).
Linking Other Trails
- The Yellow Trail crosses many other trails, including the White Trail, and starts near Picnic Area 16 and the mansion. A Yellow and White combination makes a longer day.
- The Blue Trail starts near Picnic Area 9 and loops near Picnic Area 14 (all trails).
- The paved Sycamore Mills Road Trail runs along the creek if you want a flat return.
Good For
- A first visit: one loop through the park's woods.
- A two-hour workout with some climbing.
- Dog walks, on a leash (Dogs).
Maybe Skip If
- You need a flat, smooth surface for a stroller or wheelchair: take the paved Sycamore Mills Road Trail instead.
- You want a short walk: the 1-mile Mansion Gardens loop by the Hunting Hill Mansion is easier.
Tips
- At junctions, look for the next white blaze before you commit.
- DCNR warns that cell service is unreliable in many state parks, so download the park map first (Trail Map).
- In deer season, parts of the park north of Gradyville Road are open to archery hunting. Wear something bright in the fall (Hunting).
White Trail FAQ
How long is the White Trail at Ridley Creek State Park?
DCNR lists the White Trail at 4.3 miles. The older 2023 park map shows 4.1 miles. It is a loop marked with white blazes.
Is the White Trail at Ridley Creek hard?
DCNR rates it "more difficult": steeper grades and narrower tread with roots and rocks. It is a moderate woodland hike, not a mountain climb.
Can I bring my dog on the White Trail?
Yes. Pennsylvania state parks allow pets in areas not closed to them, on a leash and under physical control at all times.
How long does the White Trail take?
As an estimate, at 2 miles an hour, a little over two hours for the full 4.3-mile loop, more with stops.