The best road cycling routes around Broomall
4.6
(14)
904
riders
100
rides
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling around Broomall, you know how overwhelming the options can be. Sifting through countless routes to find the ones genuinely worth your time and effort can feel like a full-time job. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed these routes, giving you a curated shortlist of the best road cycling routes Broomall PA has to offer. We're here to save you the guesswork and point you straight to the rides that deliver.
Road cycling around Broomall is defined by its diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills and scenic vistas within Delaware County to extensive trail networks. You'll find a compelling mix of terrain, with paved paths along rivers and more challenging routes through the countryside. This area truly offers options catering to different skill levels, whether you're looking for an easy spin through suburban green spaces or a longer, more demanding ride through natural preserves and river trails.
If you only do one ride, we'd start with the National Memorial Arch – Knox Covered Bridge loop from Wynnewood Road. At 54.7 miles (88.0 km), it's a challenging but incredibly rewarding journey through historic landmarks and picturesque countryside. For something a bit less intense but still packed with scenery, local road cyclists also love the moderate Schuylkill River Trail – Cynwyd Heritage Trail loop from Penfield, a 34.8 miles (56.1 km) trail leading through riverine landscapes. More than 600 road cyclists have already used komoot to explore Broomall's varied terrain – now it's your turn!
Last updated: June 4, 2026
5.0
(2)
20
riders
32.3km
01:26
190m
190m
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.
9
riders
87.9km
04:16
960m
960m
The National Memorial Arch – Knox Covered Bridge loop offers a challenging road cycling experience through the historic landscapes of Valley Forge National Historical Park. You'll navigate rolling, vibrant green hills and lush woodlands, passing the iconic National Memorial Arch and the picturesque Knox Covered Bridge. The route, primarily on the Joseph Plumb Martin Trail, features punchy climbs and fast descents, with some sections reaching a 10% grade, making it a demanding yet rewarding ride.
This difficult 54.6-mile (87.9 km) loop involves 3159 feet (963 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete. It's best for experienced adult and teenage cyclists comfortable with significant hills and some light motor traffic. Ensure your bike has properly functioning brakes for the steep descents, and be aware that some parts of the Outer Loop may include crushed gravel sections.
Beyond the physical challenge, this route immerses you in American history, winding past reconstructed log huts from the Continental Army's 1777 winter encampment. The Joseph Plumb Martin Trail connects many key historic sites, allowing you to explore the park's significance while enjoying the ride. It's a unique way to combine a serious workout with a deep dive into the past.
Sign up for free
8
riders
106km
05:04
1,130m
1,130m
This demanding road cycling loop offers a diverse journey, transitioning from the flat, paved Chester Valley Trail through wooded corridors and open farmland to the historically rich, hilly terrain of Valley Forge National Historical Park. You'll experience the smooth, easy riding of a rail-trail before tackling the significant climbs and descents around the National Memorial Arch, where the landscape shifts to fields, forests, and historic structures.
Starting from the Beechwood-Brookline area, you'll need to navigate local roads to connect to the main trail systems. The route is a difficult 66.1-mile (106.4 km) ride with 3698 feet (1127 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 5 hours and 2 minutes. Be prepared for busy road crossings along the Chester Valley Trail and the steep sections within Valley Forge, making this best suited for experienced cyclists.
This route is a fantastic way to combine a substantial workout with a deep dive into American Revolutionary War history. The Chester Valley Trail is a key part of the Circuit Trails network, offering connectivity, while Valley Forge National Historical Park provides a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, guiding you past monuments and recreated military encampments.
5
riders
55.6km
02:37
440m
450m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
2
riders
35.3km
01:49
440m
450m
This road cycling loop from Penfield offers a moderate 21.9-mile (35.3 km) journey through suburban roads and natural landscapes, with 1451 feet (442 metres) of elevation gain over approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes. You'll pedal past the historic 1742 Square Tavern Museum, offering a peek into 18th-century life, before venturing into the forested Cadwalader Tract. The route provides a pleasant mix of open roads and green spaces, ideal for a cyclist seeking a blend of history and exercise.
For planning your ride, note that the local roads in Haverford Township, encompassing Penfield and the Cadwalader Tract, have seen recent improvements to accommodate cyclists. While specific parking for this precise loop isn't explicitly defined, you'll find the area increasingly bike-friendly. Starting earlier in the day is often best to avoid peak traffic and enjoy cooler conditions, especially during warmer seasons.
What makes this route particularly interesting is its connection to significant historical sites, including the 1742 Square Tavern Museum and the Cadwalader Tract, which has ties to the American Revolution. The region is also part of a growing network of multi-use trails, offering varied terrain and contributing to a diverse cycling experience in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Broomall
Tips from the Community
Boathouse Row is a historic stretch of that sits on the Schuylkill River. It features 15 boathouses that host social and rowing clubs with their racing shells. It's a nice place to hop off your bike, take a break, and people watch.
1
0
As you make your way along the trail you will see the impressive Strawberry Mansion Bridge. It is a steel arch truss bridge spanning the Schuylkill River.
0
0
Be sure to stop at the midpoint and take a picture of the city.
0
0
This memorial arch was deliberately designed to resemble a simplified version of the Arch of Titus in Rome, Italy; it commemorates the arrival of George Washington and his Continental Army to Valley Forge.
0
0
The Schuylkill River Trail, a multi-use path extending from Frackville in Schuylkill County through Montgomery, Chester, and Berks counties to Philadelphia, traverses the historically rich southeastern Pennsylvania region. The trail winds through rural, agricultural, suburban, urban, and industrial areas. It is a rail trail with over 75 miles of the trail being paved or surfaced with crushed stone and open to the public. Managed and developed by the Schuylkill River Trail Partners, there are ongoing plans to extend the trail.
0
0
The Knox Covered Bridge is a beautiful bridge over Valley Creek. It was originally built in 1851 and was recently refurbished.
0
0
The Chester Valley Trail is an almost 19-mile-long rail trail that runs through Chester and Montgomery County. The trail is fully paved and ADA accessible. It is popular with cyclists, walkers and joggers.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Broomall?
There are over 100 road cycling routes available around Broomall, Pennsylvania, catering to various skill levels. The komoot community has mapped out 117 routes in the area, offering a wide range of distances and ascents.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Broomall?
Yes, Broomall offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. You can find routes with less challenging ascents and shorter distances. For instance, Ridley Creek State Park, located nearby, features a multi-use paved trail that is suitable for less strenuous rides. Out of the 117 routes, 12 are classified as easy.
What are some challenging or long-distance road cycling routes in the Broomall area?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Broomall provides several difficult and long-distance routes. A notable option is the National Memorial Arch – Chester Valley Trail loop from Beechwood-Brookline, a difficult 66.0-mile (106.2 km) path with significant elevation gain. Another challenging route is the National Memorial Arch – Knox Covered Bridge loop from Wynnewood Road, which covers 54.7 miles (88.0 km) and features nearly 1,000 meters of ascent. Overall, there are 17 difficult routes in the area.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints or picturesque routes for road cycling near Broomall?
Broomall is situated in Delaware County, known for its rolling hills and scenic vistas, providing picturesque backdrops for road cycling. Routes often traverse areas with beautiful views, especially those that wind through the broader Philadelphia countryside. The Schuylkill River Trail – Cynwyd Heritage Trail loop from Penfield offers riverine landscapes, while routes near Ridley Creek State Park provide views of Ridley Creek and diverse scenery.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Broomall?
Yes, many road cycling routes around Broomall are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the National Memorial Arch – Knox Covered Bridge loop from Wynnewood Road and the Cadwalader Tract loop from Beechwood-Brookline. These circular routes make planning your ride and return convenient.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Broomall?
Road cycling routes in Broomall offer diverse terrain. You can expect a mix of rolling hills and flatter sections, characteristic of the Philadelphia countryside. Many routes feature paved surfaces, while some sections, particularly on trails like the Schuylkill River Trail, might include crushed stone. The elevation changes vary significantly, from moderate ascents on shorter loops to substantial climbs on longer, more challenging rides.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along road cycling routes in Broomall?
Road cycling routes around Broomall often pass by or provide access to various natural and historical attractions. You might encounter the Cynwyd Heritage Trail, the serene Duck Pond, or the natural beauty of the Cadwalader Tract. Ridley Creek State Park, accessible from Broomall, also features historic homes and mill remnants.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Broomall?
The road cycling experience in Broomall is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the access to extensive trail networks like the Schuylkill River Trail, and the picturesque countryside that makes for engaging rides.
Is there good parking available at road cycling trailheads in Broomall?
While specific parking details for every trailhead are not provided, many popular cycling areas and state parks near Broomall, such as Ridley Creek State Park, typically offer designated parking facilities for visitors. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for specific parking information.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Broomall?
The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for road cycling in Broomall, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. The region's rolling hills and diverse landscapes are particularly beautiful during these seasons. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
How does the Schuylkill River Trail connect to road cycling routes from Broomall?
The Schuylkill River Trail is a significant asset for road cyclists in the Broomall area. Sections of this extensive trail, which offers over 75 miles of paved or crushed stone surfaces, are easily accessible from routes near Broomall. This allows cyclists to integrate parts of the trail into their rides, providing opportunities for longer excursions through varied rural, agricultural, suburban, and urban environments. An example is the Schuylkill River Trail – Cynwyd Heritage Trail loop from Penfield.
Are there options for road cycling during winter in Broomall?
While winter cycling is possible, conditions in Broomall can vary. Cyclists should be prepared for colder temperatures and potential ice or snow, especially on less-trafficked routes. Paved trails that are regularly maintained might be more suitable, but it's always recommended to check local weather and trail conditions before a winter ride.
Most popular routes around Broomall
Most popular attractions around Broomall
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
