The best road cycling routes in Lehigh Gorge State Park
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Road cycling routes in Lehigh Gorge State Park traverse a deep, steep-walled gorge carved by the Lehigh River, characterized by thick vegetation and dramatic rock outcroppings. The terrain primarily follows an abandoned railroad grade, offering a mostly flat surface suitable for road cycling. This area features a gentle downhill grade when traveling south, making for accessible routes. The landscape includes riverside cliffs, waterfalls, and remnants of the region's industrial history.
Best road cycling routes in Lehigh Gorge State Park
- The most popular road cycling route is D&L Trail loop from Walter Dike Number One, a 42.6 miles (68.5 km) trail that takes 3 hours 22 minutes to complete, offering extensive views along the historic D&L Trail.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is White Haven loop from Sunrise Lake Dam, a moderate 18.9 miles (30.4 km) path. This route winds through varied landscapes, including sections near the Lehigh River.
- Local road cyclists also love the White Haven to Frances Walter Dam loop, a 16.0 miles (25.7 km) trail leading through the northern part of the park, often completed in about 1 hour 12 minutes.
- Road cycling in Lehigh Gorge State Park is defined by the Lehigh River, deep gorges, and historic industrial remnants. The network offers options for easy and moderate ability levels.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 10 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Lehigh Gorge State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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riders
25.7km
01:12
240m
240m
Enjoy an easy 16.0-mile road cycling loop from White Haven to the Frances Walter Dam, offering scenic views of the Poconos and the reservoir
1
riders
36.0km
01:52
570m
570m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5
riders
44.0km
02:01
380m
380m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
33.4km
01:30
370m
370m
Cycle the BicyclePA Route L Loop, a moderate 20.7-mile road cycling route in Pinchot State Forest with 1214 feet of gain.
62.9km
03:01
700m
690m
The Hazleton to White Haven and Lehigh Gorge State Park loop offers a dynamic road cycling experience through the Pocono Mountains. You'll navigate rolling hills and dense forests on paved roads, then transition to the historic Lehigh Gorge Trail, where the scenery opens up to reveal the Lehigh River, dramatic rock cliffs, and even waterfalls like Buttermilk Falls. The route's 39.1 miles (62.9 km) and 2282 feet (695 metres) of elevation gain make it a moderate challenge, perfect for a rewarding day out.
Planning your ride, you should know that while much of the route is paved, sections within Lehigh Gorge State Park are hard-packed crushed gravel, sometimes with rougher or sandy spots, especially past Rockport. Wider tires are a good idea for these segments. The trail is particularly stunning in autumn when the fall foliage creates a vibrant display. Allow about 3 hours and 1 minute for this loop, and consider starting early to make the most of the daylight.
This loop is notable for its blend of road cycling and rail-trail adventure, following a historic corridor rich with remnants of coal mining and canal structures. The Lehigh Gorge Trail itself is part of the larger 165-mile Delaware & Lehigh (D&L) Trail system, offering options for extended exploration. You might even spot a scenic train running alongside the active railway for part of the ride, adding a unique touch to your journey.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Tips from the Community
This charming town is the northernmost starting point for Lehigh Gorge State Park. It is a popular destination due to its access to hiking and biking trails converted from former railway lines along the beautiful Lehigh River. There are several great local restaurants close to the trails, making it the perfect place to start and finish a hike through the breathtaking Lehigh Gorge.
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Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve is nearly 4,000 acres of woodlands and stream valleys. It's home to a wide array of wildlife including black bear, gray foxes, and the endangered Northern flying squirrel. A dizzying array of birds makes the Preserve home, or a welcome stop along their migratory routes.
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Rockport serves as the central gateway to Lehigh Gorge State Park. The trail that runs through the gorge is beautiful and can be ridden on most bikes, as it's made up of well packed gravel/crushed rock. Even if you don't have the time or equipment to tackle the trail it's worth a short stop and walk to the two closest water falls, Buttermilk and Luke's Falls.
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White Haven is named after Josiah White, who was instrumental in the transport of all the coal and lumber that was produced here in the early to mid 1800s. These days it's a quiet town by the Lehigh River and is a popular place to begin or end a journey through the Lehigh Gorge. Though the trail through the gorge isn't paved it's generally in decent shape and can be ridden on most bikes.
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Pinchot State Forest covers 50,000 acres across 5 counties in the mountains of Pennsylvania. The forest offers excellent hiking and biking, as well camping, fishing, and hunting.
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Natural Lands' Bear Creek Preserve is nearly 4,000 acres of woodlands and stream valleys. It's home to a wide array of wildlife including black bear, grey foxes, and the endangered Northern flying Squirrel. A dizzying array of birds make the Preserve home, or a welcome stop along their migratory routes.
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The road crosses over the Frances Walter Dam and there's a nice pullover on one side to jump off your bike and get a view over the river and reservoir. If you're in the area for a few days and want a paddle you can access the reservoir for kayaking/canoeing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level for road cycling in Lehigh Gorge State Park?
Road cycling in Lehigh Gorge State Park is generally accessible, with routes suitable for various skill levels. The terrain primarily follows an abandoned railroad grade, offering a mostly flat surface. Many routes feature a gentle 2% downhill grade when traveling south from White Haven to Jim Thorpe, making for a pleasant experience. This guide includes 1 easy route and 3 moderate routes.
Are there family-friendly road cycling routes in Lehigh Gorge State Park?
Yes, the mostly flat and multi-use surface of the trails, particularly the Lehigh Gorge Trail, makes them suitable for families. The gentle downhill grade when heading south from White Haven to Jim Thorpe is also ideal for a relaxed family ride. Wide tires are recommended due to the trail's surface.
What kind of natural features and attractions can I expect to see along the road cycling routes?
The routes in Lehigh Gorge State Park offer stunning views of the deep, steep-walled gorge carved by the Lehigh River, with thick vegetation and dramatic rock outcroppings. You can expect to see the Lehigh River itself, numerous waterfalls like Buttermilk Falls and Luke's Falls, and the Francis E. Walter Dam at the northern end of the park. The landscape also features remnants of the region's rich coal mining history, such as the Abandoned Coal Tunnel.
Are there any loop routes available for road cyclists?
Yes, there are several loop options. For instance, the D&L Trail loop from Walter Dike Number One is a popular 42.6-mile route offering extensive views. Another option is the White Haven to Frances Walter Dam loop, which is 16.0 miles long and explores the northern part of the park.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Lehigh Gorge State Park?
Lehigh Gorge State Park offers beautiful scenery throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and flowing waterfalls, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, making it a particularly scenic time for a ride. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Is parking available near the road cycling trails?
Yes, parking is available at various access points along the Lehigh Gorge Trail. Popular starting points like White Haven and Jim Thorpe offer convenient parking options for cyclists looking to explore the park's routes.
Can I rent bicycles or arrange shuttle services in the area?
Yes, bicycle rentals and shuttle services are readily available in the towns surrounding Lehigh Gorge State Park, such as Jim Thorpe and White Haven. These services offer convenient access to different sections of the trail and facilitate one-way trips, especially for those wanting to take advantage of the gentle downhill grade from White Haven to Jim Thorpe.
Are there any specific permits required for road cycling in Lehigh Gorge State Park?
Generally, no specific permits are required for cycling on the multi-use trails within Lehigh Gorge State Park for day use. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Pennsylvania DCNR website for any updated regulations or specific requirements for certain activities or areas within the park. You can find more information at pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/lehigh-gorge-state-park/biking.
What is the longest road cycling route featured in this guide?
The longest road cycling route in this guide is the D&L Trail loop from Walter Dike Number One, which spans 42.6 miles (68.5 km) and typically takes around 3 hours and 22 minutes to complete.
Are there amenities like cafes or pubs near the road cycling routes?
The towns adjacent to Lehigh Gorge State Park, such as White Haven and Jim Thorpe, offer various amenities including cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. These towns serve as excellent starting or ending points for your cycling adventures, providing places to refuel and relax.
What makes the Lehigh Gorge Trail unique for road cycling?
The Lehigh Gorge Trail, a significant part of the larger Delaware and Lehigh (D&L) National Heritage Corridor Trail, is unique for its mostly flat, multi-use surface built on an abandoned railroad grade. A distinctive feature is the gentle 2% downhill grade when traveling south from White Haven to Jim Thorpe, offering a particularly enjoyable and less strenuous ride through the scenic gorge.
Most popular routes in Lehigh Gorge State Park
Most popular attractions in Lehigh Gorge State Park
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