The Chestnut Hill West Line is a SEPTA Regional Rail route in Philadelphia, serving Chestnut Hill, West Mount Airy, Germantown, North Philadelphia, and Center City. Trains use the Center City Commuter Connection, serve 30th Street Station and Suburban Station, and continue toward Chestnut Hill West, the terminal that distinguishes this route from the nearby Chestnut Hill East Line. The line is fully grade-separated, stays within Philadelphia city limits, and has closely spaced stations that give it a more urban public transport feel than many commuter rail routes.
| Key | Information |
|---|---|
| Transit system | SEPTA Regional Rail |
| Route | Temple University and Center City to Chestnut Hill West |
| Main areas served | Center City, North Philadelphia, Germantown, West Mount Airy, and Chestnut Hill |
| Stations | 12 stations are listed for the active route in the schedule materials |
| Typical running time | About 36 to 41 minutes between Center City and Chestnut Hill West |
| Distance | Chestnut Hill West is 11.3 miles, or 18.2 km, from Suburban Station |
| Opening history | The Chestnut Hill West Branch opened on June 11, 1884; electric service began on March 30, 1918 |
| Current through service | Most weekday trains continue to the Fox Chase Line; weekend trains continue to the West Trenton Line |
Chestnut Hill West Line Map
The Chestnut Hill West Line map shows all available stops. Click on the map to enlarge it or download the Chestnut Hill West Line map in PDF format.
Stations and Key Stops
The Chestnut Hill West Line route begins on the SEPTA Main Line at Temple University, passes through Center City, and reaches 30th Street Station before continuing toward North Philadelphia. From there, the Chestnut Hill West Branch diverges and heads through Northwest Philadelphia to Chestnut Hill.
The stations list below includes the main stops and former stops shown in the route materials. Distances are shown in miles and kilometers where provided.
| Station | Details |
|---|---|
| Zoological Garden | Mantua; Zone C; 1.9 miles, or 3.1 km, from Center City; closed November 24, 1901 |
| Engleside | Brewerytown; Zone C; 2.8 miles, or 4.5 km, from Center City; closed April 5, 1903 |
| Ridge Avenue | Strawberry Mansion; Zone C; 3.2 miles, or 5.1 km, from Center City; closed April 5, 1903 |
| 22nd Street | Strawberry Mansion; Zone C; 3.9 miles, or 6.3 km, from Center City |
| North Philadelphia | Glenwood; Zone 1; 4.5 miles, or 7.2 km, from Center City; connects with Amtrak Keystone Service and SEPTA City Bus routes 4 and 16 |
| Westmoreland | Nicetown–Tioga; Zone 1; 5.5 miles, or 8.9 km, from Center City; closed October 29, 1994 |
| Queen Lane | Germantown; Zone 1; 6.8 miles, or 10.9 km, from Center City; connects with SEPTA City Bus K |
| Chelten Avenue | Germantown; Zone 1; 7.4 miles, or 11.9 km, from Center City; opened June 11, 1884; connects with SEPTA City Bus routes 26 and 41 |
| Tulpehocken | Germantown; Zone 2; 7.9 miles, or 12.7 km, from Center City; opened June 11, 1884; connects with SEPTA City Bus routes 53 and 65 |
| Upsal | Mount Airy; Zone 2; 8.4 miles, or 13.5 km, from Center City; connects with SEPTA City Bus 71 |
| Carpenter | Mount Airy; Zone 2; 9.0 miles, or 14.5 km, from Center City; opened June 11, 1884 |
| Richard Allen Lane | Mount Airy; Zone 2; 9.4 miles, or 15.1 km, from Center City |
| St. Martins | Chestnut Hill; Zone 2; 10.2 miles, or 16.4 km, from Center City |
| Highland | Chestnut Hill; Zone 2; 10.7 miles, or 17.2 km, from Center City; opened June 11, 1884 |
| Chestnut Hill West | Chestnut Hill terminal; Zone 2; 11.3 miles, or 18.2 km, from Suburban Station; opened June 11, 1884; connects with SEPTA City Bus routes 23, 51, and 77, SEPTA Suburban Bus routes 94 and 97, and nearby Chestnut Hill East service |
Center City Stations
In Center City, the line serves major Regional Rail hubs that make transfers easy for city transport and longer SEPTA trips. These stations are the best starting points for riders heading from downtown Philadelphia to Chestnut Hill West.
| Station | Details |
|---|---|
| 30th Street Station | Main Center City transfer point; Chestnut Hill West Line trains use the Center City Commuter Connection to reach it |
| Suburban Station | Downtown Center City station; the trip to Chestnut Hill West is about 36 to 41 minutes depending on the train schedule |
As of 2026, most weekday trains continue beyond Center City to the Fox Chase Line, while weekend trains continue to the West Trenton Line.
North Philadelphia and Northwest Philadelphia Stations
North Philadelphia is the key junction point before the branch heads northwest. From there, the route serves neighborhood stations in Germantown, Mount Airy, and Chestnut Hill, giving local transport access to several residential and commercial areas.
| Station | Details |
|---|---|
| North Philadelphia | Connects with Amtrak Keystone Service and SEPTA City Bus routes 4 and 16 |
| Queen Lane | Germantown stop with SEPTA City Bus K connection |
| Chelten Avenue | Germantown stop with SEPTA City Bus routes 26 and 41 |
| Tulpehocken | Germantown stop with SEPTA City Bus routes 53 and 65 |
| Upsal | Mount Airy stop with SEPTA City Bus 71 connection |
| Carpenter | Mount Airy stop in Zone 2 |
| Richard Allen Lane | Mount Airy stop in Zone 2 |
Chestnut Hill Area Stations
The Chestnut Hill section is the northwest end of the line. Chestnut Hill West Station is located at 9 West Evergreen Avenue and provides direct access to Germantown Avenue by steps or ramp.
| Station | Details |
|---|---|
| St. Martins | Chestnut Hill area station in Zone 2 |
| Highland | Chestnut Hill area station in Zone 2; useful for visiting the neighborhood |
| Chestnut Hill West | Terminal station in Zone 2; 11.3 miles, or 18.2 km, from Suburban Station; connects with bus routes 23, 51, 77, 94, and 97 |
Fares, Tickets, and SEPTA Key
Fare on the Chestnut Hill West Line depends on zones, day of travel, and payment method. Riders can use a SEPTA Key card, contactless credit or debit card, mobile wallet, cash, or a Quick Trip where available. Regional Rail onboard fares may cost more than advance purchases.
A SEPTA Key card is a reloadable contactless card for Travel Wallet funds and Daily, Weekly, or Monthly passes. The card price is USD $4.95, and the cost is refunded when the card is registered within 30 days. Children under 12 ride free with a fare-paying adult, and seniors age 65 and older ride free with a valid Senior Fare Card.
Transfers are free for SEPTA Key and contactless riders when made within 2 hours of the first tap. Key Tix users receive one free transfer within that same window. Cash and Quick Trip riders are not eligible for free transfers.
Fare Zones on the Chestnut Hill West Line
Zone 1 stations include North Philadelphia, Queen Lane, and Chelten Avenue. Zone 2 stations include Tulpehocken, Upsal, Carpenter, Allen Lane, St. Martins, Highland, and Chestnut Hill West.
Your ticket price is calculated by the zones traveled and the way you pay. For the most accurate fare, tap in and tap out correctly, then compare your trip with the current SEPTA fare information before you ride.
Contactless Payment, SEPTA Key, Quick Trip, and Cash
SEPTA accepts contactless payment on bus, Metro, and Regional Rail. Riders can tap with Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, a debit card, or a mobile wallet such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay. JCB and Union Pay are not accepted.
On Regional Rail, contactless payment works at faregates and platform validators. Separate your payment cards and mobile device before tapping, because card clash can charge the wrong account.
Quick Trips are valid only for limited situations and are not valid on SEPTA Bus. Cash is still accepted, but exact fare is required for transit trips.
When to Tap In and Tap Out
On Regional Rail, tap in at your starting station and tap out at your destination. If you do not tap out, you may be charged the maximum fare.
Center City stations use fare gates, while outlying stations have platform validators. Conductors may scan your card or payment device to confirm that your trip opened correctly.
Schedule and Frequency
The Chestnut Hill West Line schedule is based on Regional Rail timetables, with different weekday, weekend, and major holiday patterns. The line is considered timetable south between 30th Street and Chestnut Hill West, even though the path train direction generally looks northbound on a map.
Regular operating hours, opening times, closing time, frequency, and the last train can change, so check the current train schedule before traveling.
| Service detail | Timings |
|---|---|
| Weekday opening hours and starting time | Typical departures from Suburban Station start around 5:57 AM |
| Weekday closing time and last train | Typical final departure from Suburban Station is around 10:57 PM |
| Weekend opening times | Typical weekend departures start around 6:20 AM |
| Weekend closing time | Typical final weekend departure is around 10:20 PM |
| Running time | About 36 to 41 minutes between Center City and Chestnut Hill West |
| Weekend frequency | Weekend trains are shown as running on an hourly pattern in the available schedule materials |
| Major holiday schedule | New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day use special Regional Rail service patterns |
Weekday Service
On weekdays, most Chestnut Hill West Line trains continue through Center City to the Fox Chase Line. QuietRide Car service is available on weekday trains from Monday through Friday, 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM, when three or more cars are open for passenger service.
Weekday timings today may differ from the regular route timetable during severe weather, construction, or service changes. SEPTA has also considered discontinuing the line because of low ridership and systemwide budget cuts, so riders should confirm the schedule today before leaving.
Weekend and Major Holiday Service
Weekend trains are shown as operating hourly, with service generally running from about 6:20 AM to 10:20 PM. Weekend trains continue through Center City to the West Trenton Line in the available schedule information.
Major holidays do not follow the normal weekend timetable. Before traveling on a holiday, check the current schedule, route plan, and last train time.
Connections with Other SEPTA Services
The Chestnut Hill West Line connects with other SEPTA public transport services, especially City Bus and Suburban Bus routes. North Philadelphia and Chestnut Hill West are the most important transfer points listed in the route materials.
If the line is disrupted, nearby options include the Chestnut Hill East Line and the Manayunk/Norristown Line, with bus connections helping riders reach their destination.
Transfers in Center City
30th Street Station is the main Center City transfer point for the Chestnut Hill West Line. Suburban Station also provides downtown access and Regional Rail connections.
Because many trains continue through Center City, the downtown stations work as through-running points rather than simple terminals. Weekday trips usually continue to Fox Chase, while weekend trips continue to West Trenton.
Bus Connections at Line Stations
Bus connections are available at several Chestnut Hill West Line stations. These are the main station-to-bus links listed in the route information.
| Station | Details |
|---|---|
| North Philadelphia | SEPTA City Bus routes 4 and 16; Amtrak Keystone Service also available |
| Queen Lane | SEPTA City Bus K |
| Chelten Avenue | SEPTA City Bus routes 26 and 41 |
| Tulpehocken | SEPTA City Bus routes 53 and 65 |
| Upsal | SEPTA City Bus 71 |
| Chestnut Hill West | SEPTA City Bus routes 23, 51, and 77; SEPTA Suburban Bus routes 94 and 97 |
Alternative Routes if Service Is Disrupted
If Chestnut Hill West Line service is unavailable, use nearby Regional Rail and bus alternatives where they fit your trip.
- Route 23 connects the Chestnut Hill West area with Erie Station and 15th St/City Hall.
- Route 71 connects Sedgwick Station with the Chestnut Hill East Line.
- Route 53 serves Wayne Junction, with connections to the Chestnut Hill East, Fox Chase, Lansdale/Doylestown, and Warminster lines.
- Route K connects to East Falls Station for the Manayunk/Norristown Line.
- Routes 26, 41, and K connect to Germantown Station for Chestnut Hill East Line service.
- Route 26 also connects to Olney Transit Center and onward service toward 15th St/City Hall and the Trenton Line at North Philadelphia Station.
Getting to Philadelphia International Airport
From Chestnut Hill West, the practical rail route to Philadelphia International Airport is to ride to 30th Street Station, then transfer to the Airport Line for Airport Terminal A. The trip takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes.
Driving from Chestnut Hill to the airport is about 17.5 to 18 miles, or 28.2 to 29.0 km, and usually takes around 36 minutes. The estimated driving cost is USD $3–$5. Taxi service is also about 36 minutes and costs roughly USD $50–$65, while a town car is about USD $110–$160. Bus combinations take longer because there is no direct bus from Chestnut Hill to the airport.
Transfer to the Airport Line
For airport trips, transfer at a Center City Regional Rail station such as Jefferson Station, Suburban Station, or William H. Gray III 30th Street Station. The simplest route plan is Chestnut Hill West Line to 30th Street, then Airport Line to Airport Terminal A.
One listed example, Train #8459, continues through Center City to the Airport Line after departing Wayne Junction at 6:38 PM. Always check your exact train timetable before relying on a through movement.
Parking and Station Access
Chestnut Hill West Station is located at 9 W Evergreen Ave, close to Germantown Avenue. The station is listed as accessible and has nearby station parking, covered seating, and an indoor waiting area.
A SEPTA Park & Ride lot is listed near Chestnut Hill West at W Evergreen Avenue. The parking facility is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Parking Availability by Station
The clearest parking details are for Chestnut Hill West Station. The main SEPTA surface lot at 101 W Evergreen Ave has 163 spaces, including 6 handicap spaces. Weekday parking charges are listed at USD $1, weekend parking is free, and monthly parking is USD $25.
Monthly permit parking is available only to commuters who also purchase a monthly TrailPass. Other materials mention a Park & Ride lot at 100 W Evergreen Ave with 58 spaces, but no parking charges per day are provided for that location.
Walking, Drop-Off, and Local Access in Chestnut Hill
Chestnut Hill is easy to navigate after you arrive. From Chestnut Hill West Station, you can walk up the steps or ramp directly to Germantown Avenue.
The neighborhood is also served by SEPTA bus routes 23, 77, 94, 134, and L. Public parking lots along Germantown Avenue are marked with color-coded signs, and all-day event rates are typically USD $10.
How to Ride the Chestnut Hill West Line
To ride the Chestnut Hill West Line, choose your station, check the latest timetable, confirm the platform, and tap in with SEPTA Key or contactless payment before boarding. If paying another way, be ready for the conductor.
The route plan is straightforward: trains run between Center City and Northwest Philadelphia, serving North Philadelphia, Germantown, Mount Airy, and Chestnut Hill. Typical trip duration is about 36 to 41 minutes, depending on the train and schedule.
Before you go, check real-time departures in a trip-planning app. Working hours, opening hours, closing time, and platform details can change, especially during service adjustments.
Tips for Tourists and Local Riders
The line is useful for visiting Chestnut Hill, Germantown Avenue, and areas near Wissahickon Valley Park. Many trail access points are about 5 to 20 minutes from line stations, though North Philadelphia and Queen Lane are the main exceptions.
If you use SEPTA Key, tap out when you leave the train and tap back in if you reboard. For park walks, compare the trail route, train schedule, and total travel time before leaving; some walking routes have narrow roads, limited sidewalks, or unmarked crossings.
Accessibility, Bikes, Scooters, and Station Facilities
Chestnut Hill West Station is listed as accessible in SEPTA materials. Parking and bike racks are available, and the station includes covered seating and an indoor waiting area.
Station facilities vary along the line. Some Regional Rail stations have ticket offices with hours that differ by location. QuietRide is a train feature, not a station amenity, and applies to eligible weekday trains.
Safety and Passenger Rules
Stay safe by waiting for the train to stop fully before boarding or exiting. Do not board a moving train, pass between cars while the train is moving, ride in the vestibule, stand on the steps, or lean against train doors.
Some trips may use flag stops. If so, stand visibly on the platform, make eye contact with the operator, or wave so the train crew can see you.
Service may change during severe weather or other disruptions. QuietRide Car service is available on eligible weekday trains from 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM when three or more cars are open. For SEPTA customer service, call 215-580-7800; TDD/TTY service is available at 215-580-7853.
Brief History
The Chestnut Hill West Branch opened on June 11, 1884, under the Philadelphia, Germantown and Chestnut Hill Railroad. It was operated by the Pennsylvania Railroad until 1968, then by Penn Central until 1976, followed by Conrail until SEPTA took over in 1983.
Electric service began on March 30, 1918. From 1984 to 2010, the route was designated R8 Chestnut Hill West as part of SEPTA’s diametrical reorganization.
On June 26, 1987, service was cut back to Allen Lane because of unsafe conditions on the Cresheim Valley bridge. Shuttle buses served St. Martins, Highland, and Chestnut Hill West until December 17, 1989. SEPTA activated positive train control on the line on August 22, 2016.
Service was suspended on April 9, 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic and because of Amtrak construction along part of the route. Limited weekday service resumed on March 8, 2021, and weekend service returned on December 19, 2021. As of April 2025, SEPTA had considered discontinuing the line because of low ridership and budget cuts, but planned service cuts were cancelled after a court order required SEPTA services to be restored.
Nearby Attractions
The Chestnut Hill West Line gives riders access to Wissahickon Valley Park, Germantown Avenue, Chestnut Hill, and several museums, parks, and historic sites in Northwest Philadelphia.
- Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania: a 92-acre Victorian landscape garden.
- Pastorius Park: a wooded neighborhood park known for summer festivals and events.
- Woodmere Art Museum: a museum in a Victorian mansion with regional art from the 19th century to the present.
- Wissahickon Valley Park: a major hiking, cycling, walking, and picnicking destination with more than fifty miles of trails.
- Valley Green Inn: a historic restaurant in the Wissahickon gorge.
- Germantown Avenue: Chestnut Hill’s main commercial street, with shops, bakeries, galleries, cafes, and a modern farmer’s market.
Chestnut Hill and Germantown Avenue
For visitors, Chestnut Hill West is one of the most convenient stations for Germantown Avenue. Nearby bus routes include 23, 51, 77, 94, and 97, with stops such as Germantown Av & Rex Av, Germantown Av & Bethlehem Pk, and Chestnut Hill Loop.
If Chestnut Hill West service is unavailable, the Chestnut Hill East Line and Manayunk/Norristown Line may work with bus connections.
Parks, Museums, and Historic Sites
Chestnut Hill is known for architecture, green space, and cultural attractions. In 1985, it was designated the Chestnut Hill Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places.
Notable places include Anglecot, Graver’s Lane Station, the Wissahickon Inn, the John Story Jenks School, Thomas Mill Bridge, Margaret Esherick House, High Hollow, Inglewood Cottage, and the Vanna Venturi House. Woodmere Art Museum, Morris Arboretum, Pastorius Park, and Wissahickon Valley Park are also among the area’s best-known destinations.
FAQ
Quick answers for common Chestnut Hill West Line trip-planning questions are below.
Is the Chestnut Hill West Line a commuter rail line?
Yes. The Chestnut Hill West Line is part of SEPTA Regional Rail and operates as a commuter rail service between Northwest Philadelphia and Center City.
It also has an urban feel because some stations are less than half a mile, or under 0.8 km, apart.
How long is the trip between Center City and Chestnut Hill West?
The trip is usually about 36 to 41 minutes, depending on the train and direction of travel. A listed Suburban Station to Chestnut Hill West trip takes about 41 minutes.
Which stations are best for visiting Chestnut Hill?
Chestnut Hill West and Highland are the most useful stops for visiting Chestnut Hill. Chestnut Hill West is the terminal and sits close to Germantown Avenue, while Highland is also within the neighborhood.
Can I use the Chestnut Hill East Line instead?
Yes, in some cases. The Chestnut Hill East Line runs roughly parallel and can be a practical alternative when Chestnut Hill West service is unavailable.
It is a separate route, so check the schedule before switching lines. During certain track work periods, Chestnut Hill East weekday service may be reduced.
Where can I check real-time train status?
You can check real-time Chestnut Hill West Line status in the Transit app. It shows upcoming train times, schedule changes, disruptions, skipped stops, trip cancellations, and real-time train progress where available.