The Philadelphia Water Department gives an overview of the Wissahickon Watershed:
From its headwater tributaries in Montgomery County to its confluence with the Schuylkill River in Manayunk, Wissahickon Creek Watershed offers a variety of recreational, historical, and stewardship experiences. The Wissahickon Gorge in the lower watershed has been long preserved as part of Fairmount Park, drawing visitors to its trails, interesting geology, and historic mill dams. The suburban portion of the watershed has rapidly developed over the last decades causing strain on the water resources, mostly from increased stormwater runoff and discharge of treated wastewater. Despite these impacts, the watershed still retains several attractive town centers and numerous historic buildings.
There have been many efforts to preserve and restore the Wissahickon Watershed, and a broad swath of preserves, parks, and protected lands includes the Green Ribbon Trail along much of the Upper Wissahickon Creek, Forbidden Drive within Wissahickon Valley Park, Fort Washington State Park, and other smaller municipally-owned and private open spaces. These parks offer a range of activities including hiking, biking, golfing, leisurely strolls, fishing, camping, wildlife viewing, and bird and hawk watching.
Support the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association while you enjoy the beautiful Green Ribbon Trail, a scenic 21 mile trail that follows the Wissahickon from Upper Gwynedd to Philadelphia. Get your friends and family join you and/or sponsor your effort for this walkathon. Prizes given to high pledge earners.