The best gravel rides around Flying Hills
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riders
5
rides
Gravel biking around Flying Hills offers routes primarily along river and canal paths. The region is characterized by its gentle topography, with routes often following the Schuylkill River and Union Canal. These trails provide a mix of natural scenery and historical points of interest, suitable for moderate gravel cycling. The landscape features open stretches alongside waterways and occasional wooded sections.
Best gravel bike trails around Flying Hills
- The most popular gravel bike trail is View of the river – Schuylkill…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
9
riders
29.4km
01:45
140m
140m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
35.0km
02:19
340m
340m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
riders
22km
01:29
200m
190m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
64.4km
03:57
580m
570m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
41.0km
02:18
300m
300m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The trail is a continuation of the Berks County Tulpehocken creek trail The ride is easy but challenging. About 1 mile in there is an abrupt uphill that is gullied and loose shale. Firm grass either side care for non experienced riders
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This is a picturesque pond with trails running alongside it and wooden decks to relax on—an alternate trail system if you want to escape busy roads, ride along the creek, or just find a nice spot for a break.
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When completed, the Schuylkill River Trail will total nearly 120 miles from Frackville to Philadelphia. The Thun Section of the trail is a mostly crushed-gravel section in Reading that follows the river the entire time.
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The Schuylkill River Trail is a multi-use path that runs along the river. Most of the path is built over abandoned rail beds; however, there are some parts that use quiet roads that are shared with car traffic.
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These are the spooky remains of an old building's foundation, slowly melting back into nature. This foundation no doubt belonged to one of the resorts and tourist attractions that once littered the mountain's slopes.
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The Union Canal Trail runs along the Tulpehocken Creek from Reading to Leesport. The trail is made of crushed limestone, so it is a great path for walking and cycling. As the route has no traffic and is no too difficult, it is a great place for a family bike ride.
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Highlands Park is a really popular spot for hiking and jogging without having to leave the city. To get to the grassy and dirt trails, you have to walk along a paved path for a little bit, but there are a number of unpaved trails you can branch out on. The trails are lined with plants and trees, and the deer in the area are so used to humans that they don't usually run away.
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Neversink Mountain Preserve unveils a captivating view of the Schuylkill River from this scenic vantage point. Nestled in the natural beauty of Berks County, this viewpoint offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy the majestic flow of the river.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking trails in Flying Hills?
The gravel biking trails around Flying Hills are generally considered moderate. They are suitable for riders with some experience, offering a good balance of challenge and accessibility along river and canal paths.
Are there any longer gravel bike routes for extended rides in the Flying Hills area?
Yes, for a longer ride, consider the Wertz's Covered Bridge – Union Canal Trail loop from Reading. This route spans 25.7 miles (41.4 km) and features historical covered bridges along the Union Canal, making for a substantial outing.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the gravel bike trails in Flying Hills?
You can expect diverse scenery, primarily featuring riverine landscapes and canal paths. Many routes, like the View of the river – Schuylkill River Trail loop from Gibraltar, offer consistent views of the Schuylkill River, while others wind through wooded sections and past historical points of interest.
Are the gravel bike trails in Flying Hills suitable for families?
Given that the trails are generally moderate and follow relatively gentle river and canal paths, they can be suitable for families with older children or those with some cycling experience. The terrain is not overly technical, making it enjoyable for a family outing.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions I can see near the gravel bike routes?
Along and near the gravel bike routes, you can explore several attractions. Notable spots include the historic Reading Pagoda, the scenic Nolde Forest State Park, and various points along the Schuylkill River Trail itself. There are also several lakes like Birdsboro Reservoir and Antietam Lake in the vicinity.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes available in Flying Hills?
Yes, all the featured gravel bike routes in Flying Hills are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Schuylkill River Trail – Schuylkill River Trail loop from Kenhorst provides a 19.5-mile circular journey through riverine landscapes.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Flying Hills?
The best time for gravel biking in Flying Hills is typically during the spring and fall months. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, vibrant foliage, and generally drier trail conditions, making for a more comfortable and scenic ride. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially in the mornings or late afternoons, but be prepared for warmer weather.
Are there any gravel trails with good viewpoints in Flying Hills?
Many of the trails offer excellent viewpoints, particularly those that follow the Schuylkill River. The consistent river views provide scenic vistas throughout your ride, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.
How many gravel bike trails are available in the Flying Hills area?
There are at least 4 dedicated gravel bike routes detailed in this guide for the Flying Hills area, all offering moderate difficulty and unique regional characteristics.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about gravel biking in Flying Hills?
The komoot community frequently praises the region for its accessible river and canal paths, which offer a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. Riders appreciate the gentle elevation changes and the opportunity to explore the area's waterways and charming towns.
Where can I find parking for gravel bike trails in Flying Hills?
While specific parking areas vary by trailhead, many of the gravel bike routes in Flying Hills start from towns like Gibraltar, Reading, or Kenhorst. These locations typically offer public parking options near the trail access points, often close to the river or canal paths.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the gravel trails?
The gravel trails often pass through or near towns such as Reading and Gibraltar. These towns provide opportunities to find cafes, restaurants, or convenience stores where you can stop for refreshments and breaks during your ride.
Most popular attractions around Flying Hills
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