Crum Woods Is One Of Delco’s Few Remaining Forests

If you’re looking for a respite from the busy-ness of life without having to travel too far, Delaware County, PA’s Crum Woods offers 3.5 miles of trails, the perfect amount to occupy a couple hours and maybe catch a glimpse of some wildlife (such as the Pileated woodpecker in the image below). College. While immersed in nature, you may be reminded of the proximity of civilization if you hear (and may catch a glimpse of) a SEPTA train or when the trail takes you close enough to see college buildings and parking lots. The trails run along the Crum Creek, named Crumkill, meaning “crooked creek” by Swedish settlers to the area. (The Lenni Lenape called it the Ockanickon.)

A part of Swarthmore College, Crum Woods provides a natural learning environment and lab for college and nearby elementary students alike. Professors, students and researchers have the opportunity to explore and learn in multiple disciplines, including art, dance, engineering, and ecology. The trails are maintained by the Scott Arboretum Woods Crew which invites the public to help with seasonal clean-up and tree-planting days.

Most of the trails on the east side of the creek are dirt or gravel. While there is some elevation change, it’s not especially difficult. The west side of the creek offers the Leiper-Smedley Trail , a paved 2.2 mile path on the that is bike and handicapped friendly. The Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College offers a trail map on their website.