The best cycling routes around Johnstown

There are over 30 touring cycling routes around Johnstown, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 23 easy routes, 9 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options, catering to various skill levels.

The touring cycling routes in Johnstown offer a good mix of difficulties. The majority, 23 routes, are classified as easy, making them suitable for casual rides. There are also 9 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 2 difficult routes for experienced cyclists looking for significant elevation changes within the Allegheny Mountains.

Many routes in Johnstown showcase the region's natural beauty. For picturesque valleys and river views, consider routes along the Stonycreek River. The Big Thompson River View – River's Edge Natural Area loop offers scenic vistas along the Big Thompson River. For lake views, the View of Boyd Lake – Boyd Lake Trail loop provides beautiful scenery around Boyd Lake. The region is also known for its lush forests, especially vibrant during the rhododendron and mountain laurel blooming seasons in June and July, and its extended fall foliage.

Yes, Johnstown offers several family-friendly options, particularly among its 23 easy routes. The Jim Mayer Riverswalk Trail, a convenient 3.1-mile (5k) level trail in the heart of the city, is excellent for easy rides with children. Rail-trails like the Staple Bend Tunnel Trail, which is handicap-accessible, also provide flat and safe environments for families. The View of Boyd Lake – Boyd Lake Trail loop is another easy option that can be enjoyed by families.

The terrain around Johnstown is quite varied. You'll find challenging mountain paths with significant elevation changes in the Allegheny Mountains, as well as serene, flatter rail-trails that follow old railway lines. River valleys provide gentle gradients, while routes around lakes like Glendale Lake offer scenic, often less strenuous, rides. The region's forests mean many trails are shaded and feature natural surfaces in some sections, though many rail-trails are paved or well-maintained crushed stone.

Johnstown's cycling routes are rich with historical significance. The Path of the Flood Trail is a 14-mile National Recreation Trail that follows the path of the devastating 1889 flood, featuring interpretive markers. It connects to the Staple Bend Tunnel Trail, the first railroad tunnel in the U.S. The Ghost Town Trail also showcases the region's industrial and coal mining history. You can also find attractions like Cache La Poudre River and View of Boyd Lake near some routes.

The best time for touring cycling in Johnstown is generally from spring through fall. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and mountain laurels (especially June-July). Summer offers warm weather for exploring. However, autumn is particularly scenic due to Pennsylvania's extended and varied fall foliage season, making it a highly recommended time for vibrant views. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, many of Johnstown's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the popular Loveland Recreation Trail Loop is a 34.1-mile circular route. The Boyd Lake Trail – View of Boyd Lake loop also offers a convenient circular option. The Ghost Town Trail is also soon to become the only looped rail-trail in the east, offering an extensive circular experience.

The touring cycling experience in Johnstown is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging mountain paths to serene rail-trails, and the beautiful natural scenery, including river valleys and forests. The historical significance of trails like the Path of the Flood and the Staple Bend Tunnel also adds a unique dimension that riders appreciate.

Yes, many popular trailheads and parks in Johnstown offer dedicated parking facilities for cyclists. For instance, Prince Gallitzin State Park, which features over 20 miles of mountain biking trails, has ample parking. The Jim Mayer Riverswalk Trail, located centrally, also has convenient access points with parking. For specific routes, it's always advisable to check the route details on komoot for parking information at the starting point.

While Johnstown has a local public transportation system, direct access to all trailheads via public transport might be limited, especially for more remote routes. However, some trails, like the Jim Mayer Riverswalk Trail, are located within the city and may be more accessible. For longer routes or those outside the immediate city center, planning with a car or bike shuttle might be more practical. For more general information on local transport, you might consult the Visit Johnstown PA website.

Many of Johnstown's rail-trails and multi-use paths are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. Trails like the Path of the Flood Trail and the Ghost Town Trail are popular choices for cyclists with canine companions. Always check specific trail regulations before you go, but generally, the region welcomes well-behaved dogs on its outdoor trails.