Hermit’s Cave

Take a hike through history!

The cave is where John Kelpius, a German-born mystic and leader of a small religious group, was said to have meditated. The religious group had moved into the Wissahickon wilderness in 1694 to prepare for the end of the world and the Last Judgment.

Check out this WHYY podcast and this ABC News story for more information!

Check out this Google Map to explore this and other unique historical points of interest, and become acquainted with the many trailheads in Wissahickon Valley Park!

Explore more Wissahickon-related historic points of interest, stories, art, videos, games, and much more on our Virtual Valley!

You probably don’t need us to tell you how special Wissahickon Valley Park is. It’s 1800 acres provides habitat to wildlife, refuge & recreation to over a million visitors per year, and protects the drinking water for one third of Philadelphians. The park can’t take care of itself, however. It needs responsible park users and stewards to keep this special place clean and sustainable for generations to come.

HELP US TAKE CARE OF THE PARK BY DONATING OR BECOMING A MEMBER,
OR BY VOLUNTEERING WITH US AT A FUTURE SERVICE DAY!