The best cycling routes around Chestnut Hill

There are over 25 touring cycling routes around Chestnut Hill, offering a variety of experiences. These include 8 easy routes and 17 moderate routes, ensuring options for different skill levels.

The touring cycling routes in Chestnut Hill are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the blend of urban green spaces and accessible natural areas, particularly the tranquil creek-side paths and historic landmarks within Wissahickon Valley Park.

Many routes traverse or are near the expansive Wissahickon Valley Park, where you can encounter dense forests, the tranquil Wissahickon Creek, and historic stone bridges. Notable landmarks include the Valley Green Inn, Devil's Pool, and the last remaining covered bridge in Philadelphia, Thomas Mill Bridge. You can also explore areas like Delaware Canal State Park, known for its scenic trails.

Beyond the routes themselves, you can visit the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania, which offers beautifully manicured gardens. Within Chestnut Hill, Pastorius Park provides a relaxed setting with a scenic pond. For more natural exploration, Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center is also nearby.

Yes, Chestnut Hill is accessible by public transport. SEPTA Regional Rail's Chestnut Hill East and Chestnut Hill West lines provide convenient access to the area, making it easy to reach the starting points of many routes without a car.

Parking is available at various access points for Wissahickon Valley Park, which borders Chestnut Hill and is home to many popular cycling paths like Forbidden Drive. Specific parking lots can be found along the park's perimeter, though availability may vary, especially on busy weekends.

Many routes, particularly those within Wissahickon Valley Park like Forbidden Drive, are considered family-friendly. Forbidden Drive is a flat, wide, and easily navigable gravel path, suitable for most types of bicycles and appealing to cyclists of varying fitness levels, including families with children. There are 8 easy routes in the area that are great for families.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on leash on many of the trails in Wissahickon Valley Park, including Forbidden Drive, which is a popular touring cycling route. Always check specific park regulations and signage for any restrictions.

The routes offer varied terrain. You can expect a blend of flat, wide gravel paths, especially along Forbidden Drive in Wissahickon Valley Park, as well as some more rugged, unpaved segments with moderate elevation changes on other trails. Some routes, like the Binney and Smith Preserve loop from Palmer Township, feature notable elevation gain, providing a mix of surfaces and challenges.

Yes, there are several circular touring cycling routes. For example, the Delaware Canal State Park – Laubach Island loop from Easton is a popular circular route. Another option is the Bixlers Bluff – Delaware Canal State Park loop from Easton, which also offers a varied landscape in a loop format.

Spring and fall are generally the best seasons for touring cycling in Chestnut Hill. The weather is mild, and the natural scenery, especially in Wissahickon Valley Park, is particularly beautiful with blooming foliage or vibrant autumn colors. Summer can also be pleasant, though it can be warmer and more humid.

Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a greater challenge, routes like the Delaware Canal State Park – Billy's Downtown Diner loop from Easton offer a substantial distance of 36.1 miles (58.2 km) with significant elevation gain and a mix of surfaces. While most routes are moderate, these longer options provide a more demanding experience.