The best cycling routes around Hughestown

There are 3 touring cycling routes around Hughestown, Pennsylvania, featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult options, traversing scenic river valleys and historical rail trails.

While the routes in this guide are generally moderate to difficult, the broader Hughestown area, particularly along the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail and the Luzerne County Levee Trail, offers relatively flat and paved sections suitable for families and beginners. These multi-use trails provide scenic views and are accessible for all ages.

Touring cycling around Hughestown offers diverse landscapes. You'll primarily encounter scenic river valleys, especially along the Lackawanna and Susquehanna Rivers. The region also features historical rail trails, forests, and unique remnants of coal mining like culm banks, providing varied backdrops for your rides.

Yes, there are circular touring cycling routes. For example, the Two Rivers loop is a popular moderate route that takes you along riverbanks. Another option is the Campbell's Ledge and Reservoir Loop, which is also a moderate circular path.

Along the routes, you can explore several natural attractions. The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail and the Luzerne County Levee Trail offer scenic river views. Just a short distance from Hughestown, you can visit Frances Slocum State Park, which features a large lake and diverse habitats. The Campbells Ledge Reservoir is also a notable point of interest.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Everhart Museum – Davis Trail loop from PNC Field is a difficult route with significant elevation changes, covering 28.7 miles (46.1 km). This route leads through varied terrain, offering a more strenuous experience.

Parking is generally available at various access points along the major trails. For the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail and the Luzerne County Levee Trail, there are multiple designated parking areas. Specific access points for the D&L Trail in the Hughestown area also offer parking facilities.

While direct public transport to every trail access point might be limited, the broader Luzerne County region has some public transport options. For specific routes, it's advisable to check local bus schedules or ride-sharing services that might connect to towns near trailheads. For more information on local transport, you might consult regional transit authorities.

The best time for touring cycling in Hughestown is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming scenery, while fall provides stunning foliage. Summer is also great, though it can be warmer. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

Many of the touring cycling routes in the Hughestown area pass through or near towns and communities where you can find cafes, restaurants, and other amenities. The multi-use trails like the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail and the Luzerne County Levee Trail often have facilities or towns within easy reach for refreshments and breaks.

Many multi-use trails in the Hughestown area, such as the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail and the Luzerne County Levee Trail, are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them. It's always a good idea to check specific trail regulations before you go.

While not directly on the routes listed in this guide, the wider Northeastern Pennsylvania region is known for its waterfalls. Ricketts Glen State Park, famous for its numerous waterfalls, and Lehigh Gorge State Park, which also features scenic river views and waterfalls, are within a reasonable distance and could be part of a longer cycling trip or a separate excursion.