The best road cycling routes around New Cumberland

Road cycling around New Cumberland features a diverse landscape. You'll find a mix of dedicated pathways and picturesque rural roads, characterized by rolling hills and sections along the Susquehanna River. The region offers varied terrain, from easier, flatter paths like the Gravel on the Greenbelt – Reservoir Park loop to more challenging routes with greater elevation changes.

Yes, New Cumberland offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the Gravel on the Greenbelt – Reservoir Park loop from Harrisburg Transportation Center is an easy 9.8-mile path. Another accessible option is the Riverfront Park – Capital Area Greenbelt loop from Harrisburg, which is 11.5 miles long and relatively flat. Overall, there are 10 easy routes available.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, New Cumberland offers routes with significant elevation. The City Island – Children's Lake loop from Harrisburg Transportation Center is a difficult 70.9-mile route with over 720 meters of elevation gain, providing a substantial workout. There are 2 difficult routes in total.

Many routes in the New Cumberland area offer scenic views and pass by notable natural features and landmarks. You can cycle along the Capital Area Greenbelt, which includes sections through Wildwood Park Meadow and along the Susquehanna River. Some routes also lead to City Island in Harrisburg, a family-friendly attraction. The region is known for its picturesque back roads and charming downtowns.

Yes, New Cumberland and the surrounding area offer excellent paved options for road bikes. The Capital Area Greenbelt, while multi-surface in parts, has significant paved sections suitable for road cycling, especially along the Susquehanna River. Wildwood Park, easily accessible near Harrisburg, also features a dedicated paved trail open to bikes.

The Cumberland Valley region generally offers pleasant conditions for road cycling from spring through autumn. These seasons provide comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery. While specific seasonal conditions can vary, the mild weather during these months makes it ideal for exploring the diverse routes.

Yes, the area provides family-friendly cycling options, particularly on dedicated paved paths. The paved trail at Wildwood Park is a great choice for families. Additionally, some of the easier routes on the Capital Area Greenbelt, such as the Riverfront Park – Capital Area Greenbelt loop, are suitable for a leisurely family ride.

Many routes in the area, particularly those starting from Harrisburg, are accessible from the Harrisburg Transportation Center, which can be reached by public transport. For those driving, parks like New Cumberland Borough Park and Wildwood Park offer parking facilities. The ongoing development of a Comprehensive Recreation, Park and Trail Network Plan aims to further improve connectivity and access points.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around New Cumberland are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Fort Hunter Mansion and Park – Wildwood Park loop and the Gravel on the Greenbelt – Reservoir Park loop, both starting from Harrisburg Transportation Center.

The road cycling routes in New Cumberland are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscape, which combines urban exploration with natural beauty, and the variety of routes catering to different skill levels.

The Camp Hill to New Cumberland Loop, for example, passes through both towns, offering access to shops and eateries. The broader Cumberland Valley region is known for its charming downtowns, where you can find cafes and other amenities. Visit Cumberland Valley provides more information on local attractions and services.

The road cycling routes in New Cumberland vary significantly in length to suit different preferences. You can find shorter routes like the City Island loop from New Fox Ridge, which is about 7.1 miles (11.4 km), or longer, more challenging rides such as the City Island – Children's Lake loop, stretching over 70 miles (114 km).