The best MTB trails in Lycoming County

The High Knob Loop in Loyalsock State Forest offers a classic Pennsylvania mountain biking experience, winding through diverse forest landscapes. You'll navigate varied terrain, from rolling paths to more challenging climbs, all while surrounded by the natural beauty of the state forest. The highlight is undoubtedly the High Knob Viewpoint, which rewards your efforts with sweeping, multi-county vistas, particularly vibrant during the spring and autumn months.

This moderate 8.6-mile (13.9 km) mountain biking trail involves a significant 1248 feet (380 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 31 minutes. It's best suited for riders who have some experience and are comfortable with sustained climbs and varied surfaces. Plan your visit during spring or fall for the most spectacular scenery, and always ensure you carry enough water for the duration of the ride.

While the High Knob Loop provides a solid challenge, it's distinct from the more extreme High Knob Trail near the Virginia/West Virginia border, which is known for its double black diamond difficulty and technical downhill sections like the "DEATH CHUTE." This Pennsylvania loop focuses more on a balanced, scenic ride through the forest, making it a great option for intermediate mountain bikers looking for a rewarding outing without the extreme technical demands of its namesake counterpart.

The Black Gap Trail at Raymond B. Winter State Park offers a dynamic mountain biking adventure through central Pennsylvania's Ridge and Valley Province. You'll navigate a mix of rocky ridges, dense oak and pine forests, and flowing singletrack, with some challenging rock gardens. Keep an eye out for views of Halfway Lake and the lush mountain laurel and ferns that line the path. This moderate 10.9-mile (17.5 km) route with 962 feet (293 metres) of elevation gain typically takes around 1 hour and 31 minutes to complete.

Access the Black Gap Trail directly from Raymond B. Winter State Park. Be aware that the Middle section can be very wet for much of the year, sometimes resembling a creek, so plan your visit accordingly, perhaps aiming for drier seasons. While rated moderate, this trail requires advanced riding skills, so come prepared for technical sections and some short, punchy climbs.

Considered one of the most popular mountain biking trails in the region, the Black Gap Trail is a must-do for many riders. It's part of an extensive network within Bald Eagle State Forest, offering over 48 miles of off-road trails and nearly 100 miles of connecting forestry roads, allowing for varied route combinations and making it a versatile destination.

The Black Gap Trail loop from R. B. Winter State Park offers a demanding 32.7-mile (52.6 km) mountain bike adventure, featuring 3075 feet (937 metres) of elevation gain over an estimated 5 hours and 4 minutes. This difficult route winds through diverse landscapes, from dense oak and pine forests to cool hemlock groves and tunnels of rhododendron and mountain laurel. Expect a mix of flowing trails and highly technical, rocky sections that will test your skills, especially in the middle third which can become a water-filled creek bed after rain.

To tackle this challenging loop, plan your visit to R. B. Winter State Park, the starting point for the trail. It's crucial to check weather conditions beforehand, as the trail's middle section is prone to waterlogging. The recommended riding direction is from west to east, which can help manage some of the more technical descents and climbs.

This trail is a local favorite, renowned for its