Nestled above the bustling Schuylkill River Trail and Kelly Drive in East Fairmount Park sits a quiet, wooded trail with a rich history called the Boxers’ Trail. The 3.8-mile trail is named for the boxing champions that trained there, including Joe Frazier. Young boxers from local recreation centers and boxing gyms still use the trail as a training ground today.

One great way to get to know and enjoy the trail is to take part in the 8th Annual Boxers’ Trail 5k Walk/Run, which will occur on Saturday, September 14. Participants run or walk the scenic cliff paths of the Boxers’ Trail, following the footsteps of Joe Frazier. Registration opens at 8:30 a.m., and the race begins at 9:30 a.m. Registration is free for residents of the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood.

But there’s another reason you should sign up for the walk/run, besides enjoying the beautiful views and rich history. Proceeds from the Boxers’ Trail 5k benefit Mander Playground. The funds raised help grow many of the site’s fun, educational, and athletic programs. Because of the runners and walkers of the 5k, the children and adults at Mander Playground have more resources and opportunities! Programs at Mander Playground supported by the 5k include:

1. Summer camp: Over 70 participants ages 5-13 signed up in 2019. The camp was eight weeks long and included two trips per week.
2. Swim team: The 17-member swim team had a winning season!
3. Water aerobics: This class had a record of over 60 participants in the 2019 season.
4. After-school program: Fun events and activities are provided to the 25-30 children in the program.
5. Literacy program: Leaders specialize in assisting children ages 5-8 with reading and literacy. Each year, the kids visit Storybook Land in December.
6. Field trips: Children from Mander Playground also enjoy an annual trip to New York City. The kids love experiencing a Broadway show, a sit-down dinner, and travel with their friends.
7. Sports: The co-ed flag football team is a fan favorite, and holds an undefeated title!

To enjoy the Boxers’ Trail on your own, follow the route below!

The paved portion of the trail begins on Reservoir Drive and North 33rd Street in Strawberry Mansion, right near the driving range and Sedgley Woods Disc Golf course.

1. Follow signage past the Smith Memorial Playground and turn left down the paved path.
2. Turn left again on Fountain Green Drive and head down the hill. The unpaved, crushed stone part starts on the right and heads up a steep hill.
3. Follow the crushed stone section about 1.5 miles until it meets Randolph Drive and becomes a paved path again.
4. Follow the paved path around the Edgley Ballfields and follow signs all the way to Strawberry Mansion, for a total of 3.8 miles.