The best cycling routes in Delaware County

Delaware County offers a selection of 16 touring cycling routes, catering to various preferences and skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars.

Yes, Delaware County has 11 easy touring cycling routes, perfect for beginners or family outings. These routes often feature paved surfaces and minimal elevation gain. A good example is the Hoover Reservoir Park – Big Walnut Creek Path loop from GetGo Gas Station, which is an easy 12.6-mile (20.2 km) ride. The Hoover Reservoir Park loop from Westerville North High School is another easy option, covering about 6 miles (9.7 km).

Delaware County's touring cycling routes traverse diverse landscapes, including extensive parklands, serene streams, and varied habitats like prairies, meadows, and wetlands. You'll often find yourself cycling through sprawling woodlands and along river corridors, with opportunities to spot local wildlife such as deer and wild turkeys. Parks like Ridley Creek State Park and Tyler Arboretum offer particularly picturesque settings.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Delaware County are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Popular options include the Dublin Parks loop — Dublin, a 20.3-mile (32.7 km) moderate ride, and the McNamara Park – Char-Mar Ridge Park loop from Berkshire Township, which is 23.1 miles (37.2 km) long.

Along the touring cycling routes in Delaware County, you can explore several interesting points. The Westerville Sports Complex – Alum Creek Trail loop from Far North Columbus passes by the Westerville Sports Complex. You might also encounter the Genoa Trail, an Observation Deck, and the scenic Alum Creek Lake. The Out of Africa Trail is another highlight to look out for.

The spring, summer, and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Delaware County. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while summer provides warm weather for longer rides. Autumn is particularly scenic with vibrant fall foliage. While some trails may be accessible in winter, conditions can vary, and it's advisable to check local weather and trail reports.

Yes, Delaware County is part of the extensive Circuit Trails network, which includes several dedicated cycling paths. Notable segments include the Ridley Creek State Park Trail, a 5-mile paved and flat track, and the Chester Creek Rail Trail, a tree-lined 2.8-mile path offering ample shade. The Radnor Trail is also being expanded, providing more dedicated cycling opportunities.

Many parks and trailheads throughout Delaware County offer designated parking areas for cyclists. For specific routes, it's recommended to check the individual route details on komoot, which often include information about starting points and parking availability. Larger parks like Ridley Creek State Park and those within the Preservation Parks system typically have ample parking facilities.

The touring cycling routes in Delaware County range from easy to moderate. There are 11 easy routes, suitable for casual rides, and 5 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge. Currently, there are no routes classified as difficult, making the area accessible for a wide range of cyclists. Routes like the Bike loop from Sunbury are considered moderate, covering 23.5 miles (37.8 km).

Delaware County is served by SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority), which provides public transport options that may offer access to various trailheads. While direct access to every trail might vary, checking SEPTA's routes and schedules can help plan your journey to trail-adjacent locations. For detailed information on specific routes and connections, it's best to consult the SEPTA website.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Delaware County, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 25 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse parklands, extensive woodlands, and the robust network of multi-use paths. The variety of routes, from easy paved paths to more challenging options, is also frequently highlighted as a key enjoyable aspect.

Yes, Delaware County's cycling infrastructure is well-integrated into larger regional networks. It features segments of the Circuit Trails, which connect numerous parks and natural landscapes. Additionally, portions of the East Coast Greenway pass through the region, offering connections for longer touring opportunities and multi-day explorations beyond the county's borders.