The best cycling routes around Middletown

The 9-11 Trail and Northwest River Trail Loop offers a diverse touring cycling experience, blending historical significance with natural beauty. You'll cycle along the Susquehanna River, passing through farmlands and woodlands, with notable features like the unique limestone formations of the White Cliffs of Conoy and the scenic Chickies Rock County Park. The terrain varies from smooth, crushed stone paths to unpaved segments and roadways, making it a dynamic ride.

This difficult 61.1-mile (98.3 km) route involves 1773 feet (540 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 5 hours and 47 minutes to complete. While sections of the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail are largely flat and easy, the full loop demands good fitness and a touring or hybrid bike due to its varied surfaces and climbs. Plan for a full day on the saddle, and take advantage of amenities like drinking fountains and bike repair stations found in towns along the Northwest River Trail PA.

What makes this route truly stand out is its connection to the September 11th National Memorial Trail, offering a profound journey of reflection. Beyond its historical context, the loop provides a rich tapestry of scenery, from riverfront views to historical markers and even potential Bald Eagle nest lookouts. It's a comprehensive touring cycling loop in Pennsylvania that connects significant trails and offers a unique blend of natural and cultural exploration.

This challenging touring cycling route takes you through picturesque Pennsylvania Dutch Country, blending the smooth, crushed stone and paved sections of the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail with more varied road surfaces. You'll pedal past untouched woodlands, expansive farms, and charming communities like Mount Gretna, with its historic architecture, and the significant Cornwall Iron Furnace. The route offers a diverse experience, from tranquil rail-trail cruising to more demanding road segments.

Planning for this difficult 73.2-mile (117.8 km) loop, which includes 1915 feet (584 metres) of elevation gain, means setting aside about 7 hours and 18 minutes for the ride. Trailheads along the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail offer convenient parking. While the rail trail itself is generally flat, the full loop's length and elevation require good fitness, and some sections may involve pushing your bike. Consider riding in the fall for stunning foliage views.

The Harrisburg to Lebanon loop follows the historic corridor of the old Cornwall-Lebanon Railroad, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past. The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail, a key part of this route, is maintained by dedicated volunteers and connects seamlessly with the Conewago Recreation Trail, providing options for extending your ride. This loop is an excellent way to explore the natural features and historical landmarks of central Pennsylvania by bike.

This touring cycling route offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and industrial history along the Susquehanna River. You'll pedal past the striking White Cliffs of Conoy, unique formations created from 19th-century quarry byproducts, before crossing the magnificent Safe Harbor Trestle Bridge, which provides expansive, elevated views of the river and dam. The 16.7-mile (26.9 km) loop is rated easy, with a gentle 150 feet (46 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes around 1 hour and 31 minutes to complete.

Starting from York Haven, this loop primarily uses sections of the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail and the Enola Low Grade Trail. While much of the path is paved and smooth, be prepared for some sections of the Enola Low Grade Trail that may have heavy ballast, where wider tires are recommended for comfort. Remember that parts of the trail are unshaded, so plan your ride accordingly on hot days.

Beyond the scenic vistas, this route is rich in historical significance, following former railroad lines and passing the ruins of an old limestone factory and remnants of the Billmyer ghost town. The Safe Harbor Trestle Bridge itself is an impressive engineering feat, reopened in 2022 after a major restoration and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, ospreys, and other waterfowl along the river.

The Bullfrog Valley Park loop from Penn State Hershey offers a delightful touring cycling experience, primarily following the Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail. You'll pedal through serene woodlands, past tranquil lake views in Bullfrog Valley Park, and alongside picturesque farm fields, enjoying a mix of natural beauty and suburban landscapes. This route is largely paved and multi-use, making it a comfortable ride for most touring cyclists, though you should expect some gentle uphill grades in places.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is well-maintained and features amenities like benches and porta-potties at Bullfrog Valley Park. While the majority of the 23.9-mile (38.4 km) route is on dedicated paths, be mindful of a few sections where you'll share the road with light vehicular traffic. This moderate ride, with 1106 feet (337 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, making it a great option for a half-day outing.

This route stands out for its connectivity, linking Bullfrog Valley Park, Shank Park, and the Penn State Hershey Medical Center, making it a central artery for local recreation. The Jonathan Eshenour Memorial Trail itself is a tribute to safe cycling, offering interpretive signs about local history and nature. It's a fantastic way to explore the Hershey area, providing a generally easy and accessible ride that showcases diverse scenery and local charm.