The best cycling routes around Lambertville

This New Hope – Washington Crossing Bridge loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, tracing the scenic Delaware River and historic canal paths. You'll pedal through charming towns like New Hope and Lambertville, enjoying picturesque river views and passing significant historical sites such as Washington Crossing Historic Park. The route is largely flat, but some unpaved sections mean a hybrid or mountain bike is recommended for the best experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the varied terrain and natural features.

Planning your ride on this popular route is straightforward, with plenty of amenities available in the towns along the way for refreshments and breaks. Be aware that you'll need to walk your bike through Washington Crossing Park and across all bridges, including the narrow Washington Crossing Bridge itself, which has a dedicated path. The D&R Canal path on the New Jersey side is generally smoother than some sections on the Pennsylvania side, making it a good choice for family-friendly bike trails.

Rich in history, this loop immerses you in the story of George Washington's crossing of the Delaware, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The trail provides a variety of experiences, from tranquil riverside stretches to bustling town centers, making it a standout among circular bike routes in Solebury Township. It's a moderate 29.0 miles (46.7 km) journey with 667 feet (203 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 37 minutes to complete.

The New Hope-Lambertville Bridge loop offers a delightful touring bicycle experience, blending picturesque riverside views with the charm of historic towns. You'll pedal along the Delaware Canal Towpath, enjoying serene natural beauty and glimpses of 19th-century history, before crossing the iconic New Hope-Lambertville Bridge. This moderate 13.4-mile (21.6 km) route, with 538 feet (164 metres) of elevation gain, is a perfect way to spend about 1 hour and 39 minutes exploring the unique connection between New Jersey and Pennsylvania. It's ideal for cyclists who appreciate a mix of paved and well-packed gravel surfaces, offering a rewarding ride without being overly demanding.

When planning your ride, remember that while the route is associated with Howell Living History Farm, bicycles are generally not allowed on the farm property itself. Most cyclists start this popular cycling route from nearby New Hope or Lambertville, where you can find convenient parking. The frequent bridge crossings between these two towns mean you'll have plenty of opportunities for breaks and refreshments. This loop is enjoyable in most seasons, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant weather and vibrant scenery along the Delaware River.

This route stands out for its rich historical context, following sections of the Delaware Canal Towpath, a remnant of early American transportation. The New Hope-Lambertville Bridge itself is a significant landmark, connecting two towns known for their artistic flair and cultural attractions. Beyond the ride, you can explore the unique shops and cafes in both New Hope, Pennsylvania, and Lambertville, New Jersey, making it a great option for a day trip that combines outdoor activity with local exploration.

This easy touring cycling loop offers a delightful escape along the historic Delaware Canal Towpath and the D&R Canal State Park Trail. You'll glide past tranquil canal waters, enjoy natural river views, and spot wildlife like sunbathing turtles. The route connects the charming towns of New Hope and Lambertville, with the scenic Lambertville-New Hope bridge serving as a picturesque crossing point between the two states. It's a peaceful journey through varied landscapes, perfect for a relaxed outing.

At 8.4 miles (13.5 km) with only 83 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain, this loop is rated easy and takes about 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete. While much of the path is flat, be prepared for varied surfaces including dirt, gravel, and some potentially buckled asphalt; a hybrid or gravel bike is recommended over a road bike. The trail is popular, so consider an early start, especially on weekends, to enjoy the serenity. Spring and fall are ideal for comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery.

This route is steeped in history, following 19th-century canals once used by mules to tow cargo boats, with original locks and aqueducts still visible. It's part of a larger network of multi-use trails, making it a great option for families or anyone seeking a gentle ride with cultural and natural appeal. The proximity to New Hope and Lambertville means you have easy access to shops, restaurants, and historical sites, adding to the overall experience.

This easy touring cycling route offers continuous views of the Delaware River, winding through charming streets, tranquil agricultural areas, and woodlands. You'll primarily follow the historic Delaware Canal Towpath, enjoying a mostly flat profile that's perfect for a relaxed ride. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like bald eagles and herons, and enjoy the picturesque scenery as you cycle between the vibrant towns of New Hope, Pennsylvania, and Lambertville, New Jersey, often crossing the iconic New Hope-Lambertville Bridge.

The trail starts conveniently from New Hope Station, which is accessible by public transport, and municipal parking lots are available nearby. While the route is generally smooth, some sections of crushed stone or packed gravel might be challenging for road bikes with very thin tires, so a hybrid or gravel bike is recommended. Always check for any trail closures before you head out to ensure a smooth trip.

This 8.1-mile (13.0 km) loop, with a minimal 76 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete, making it an ideal choice for families or anyone seeking an accessible cycling path. Its historic significance, following a vital 19th-century transportation artery, adds an extra layer of interest to this popular cycling trail near the Delaware River.