The best road cycling routes around Glenolden

The Boathouse Row – Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk loop offers a delightful road cycling experience, tracing the Schuylkill River with continuous city and waterfront views. This easy 20.1 miles (32.3 km) route, featuring a modest 631 feet (192 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 1 hours and 26 minutes to complete. You'll pedal past the iconic Boathouse Row, with its historic structures, and enjoy the unique perspective of the Philadelphia skyline from the Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk, a truly memorable part of this popular cycling trail.

Planning your visit is straightforward, but keep in mind that this trail is a local favorite. To fully appreciate the scenery and avoid the busiest sections, especially on the Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk, aim for a ride during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or weekdays. While parking options are available near the Parkview starting point, they can fill up quickly due to the trail's popularity, so arriving early is always a good strategy.

This loop is a celebrated part of the broader Schuylkill River Trail, which earned the title of "Best Urban Trail in America" in 2015. It's an excellent choice for beginners or families looking for a flat, paved surface, offering a blend of natural beauty and urban landmarks. The route provides a fantastic opportunity to see Philadelphia from a different vantage point, making it a standout among cycling options in the region.

The Ridley Creek overlook loop from Wallingford offers a rewarding road cycling experience through varied terrain and beautiful natural scenery. You'll pedal through expansive woodlands and open meadows, catching glimpses of the winding Ridley Creek and historical features like old stone ruins and an impressive 1800s high-arch stone bridge. The route culminates at the Ridley Creek overlook, providing extensive views over the valley, all while tackling a moderate 22.5-mile (36.1 km) distance with 1495 feet (456 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 44 minutes.

When planning your ride, be aware that while the route starts in Wallingford, the main cycling action is on the paved multi-use trail within Ridley Creek State Park. Road bikes are strictly confined to this paved loop, so avoid any unpaved hiking or singletrack trails. This dedicated, traffic-free space makes it a safe and popular option for local cyclists.

This route is particularly notable for its blend of natural beauty and a moderate physical challenge, making it a favorite among road cyclists in the Delaware County area. The park's proximity to urban areas like Philadelphia, combined with its secluded feel and the scenic Ridley Creek overlook, offers a refreshing escape for those seeking a quality workout and picturesque views.

If you're seeking a road cycling route that combines a good workout with beautiful scenery, the Ridley Creek overlook – Sugartown Road loop from Swarthmore is a top pick. This moderate route covers 37.6 miles (60.5 km) and features 2531 feet (771 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 54 minutes to complete. You'll ride through diverse parklands, past scenic creek valleys, and alongside mature woodlands, with highlights including Ridley Creek State Park and the historic Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation.

To make the most of your ride, plan for a good level of fitness, as the route includes rolling hills and significant elevation changes. While mostly paved, some sections might be unpaved, so be prepared for varied terrain. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions for cycling, providing comfortable temperatures and lush or colorful landscapes.

This loop is widely recognized as the most popular road cycling route around Swarthmore, celebrated for its blend of physical challenge and natural beauty. The area around Swarthmore and Ridley Creek State Park offers a network of routes, but this particular loop stands out for its comprehensive tour of the region's diverse landscapes.