4.4
(37)
380
riders
17
rides
Touring cycling around Cecil-Bishop is characterized by its rolling hills and wooded landscapes, providing varied terrain for cyclists. The region features dedicated recreational infrastructure, including access to the Montour Trail and Panhandle Trail, both prominent multi-use rail-trails. This topography offers both gentle slopes and more challenging climbs, with natural areas like the Forestbrooke Conservation Area enhancing the outdoor experience.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
4.4
(5)
28
riders
39.1km
02:24
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
28
riders
65.8km
03:59
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.5
(2)
20
riders
19.7km
01:19
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
80.1km
05:14
760m
760m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
25.2km
01:40
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This tunnel is completely closed and donation money is being collected to rebuild it. It will possibly reopen in September of 2027.
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Great spot to park. They recently added a porta John just 3/4 mile to the west across the Wv/Pa state line. Previously the next one was in Burgettstown or a half mile before the Harmon Creek trail head.
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After the rain storm today there were lots of broken branches on the trail.
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The Montour Trail is a multiuse trail around Pittsburgh and is the country's longest suburban rail-trail. The trail is built on the former Montour Railroad.
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The McDonald Trail Station is a welcome center and trail parking for the Panhandle Trail and Montour Trail. There is also an exhibition inside the building with local artifacts and history.
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The McDonald Trestle is a historic former railroad bridge, and is now a nearly 1,000‑foot long pedestrian and cycling viaduct on the Montour Trail.
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Wet tunnel with water dripping from ceiling. Very cold almost icy.
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There are 18 touring cycling routes available around Cecil-Bishop. These routes cater to various skill levels, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists.
The touring cycling routes in Cecil-Bishop offer a mix of difficulties. You'll find 4 easy routes, 12 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging routes, ensuring options for cyclists of all experience levels.
Yes, Cecil-Bishop offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the McDonald Trail Station – Helicon Brewery loop from McDonald, which is 26.2 km long and features gentle terrain.
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Cecil-Bishop has routes with significant elevation changes. The National Tunnel – McDonald Trail Station loop from Cecil is a difficult route spanning 76.9 km with over 645 meters of elevation gain, providing a more demanding experience.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Cecil-Bishop are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Enlow Tunnel – Montour Trail loop from McDonald and the McDonald Trestle – McDonald Trestle Bridge loop from Southview.
The routes often traverse picturesque rolling hills and wooded areas, characteristic of Washington County. You can also encounter notable features like the National Tunnel and the McDonald Trestle Bridge, which are part of the Montour Trail system. The region is also known for its lush parks and access to nearby woods and fields.
Many sections of the Montour Trail, which is central to cycling in Cecil-Bishop, are suitable for families. The trail offers varied surfaces, including paved and unpaved sections, and routes like the 'National Tunnel – McDonald Trail Station loop from Cecil' are noted as suitable for all skill levels, making them good options for family outings.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 25 reviews. Reviewers often praise the comprehensive experience of the local rail-trail network, the scenic rides through natural surroundings, and the varied terrain that offers both gentle slopes and more challenging climbs.
Given the region's rolling hills and wooded areas, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Cecil-Bishop. The temperatures are milder, and the natural scenery is particularly vibrant with spring blooms or fall foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it may be warmer.
Yes, beyond the natural beauty, you can explore several points of interest. Along the routes, you might pass the historic National Tunnel, the impressive McDonald Trestle Bridge, and the Greer Tunnel and Chartiers Creek Bridge. These offer interesting stops and photo opportunities during your ride.
Access to the Montour Trail, a key feature for touring cycling in Cecil-Bishop, is available at various entry points. Cecil Township Park serves as a central hub and provides direct access. Many trailheads, such as the McDonald Panhandle Trail trailhead, typically offer parking facilities for cyclists.
While the immediate trailside amenities might vary, routes like the McDonald Trail Station – Helicon Brewery loop from McDonald suggest that there are establishments like breweries or cafes accessible from the trail network, particularly in nearby towns or trail stations.


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