Four Springs Winery – Seven Valleys Parking Lot loop from Jacobus

If you're a road cyclist looking for a diverse ride that blends scenic rail trail with challenging climbs, the Four Springs Winery – Seven Valleys Parking Lot loop from Jacobus is a moderate 34.2 miles (55.1 km) route with 2145 feet (654 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 49 minutes. It's a great option for those who appreciate a mix of smooth cruising and some serious pedaling, all while exploring the charming Pennsylvania countryside.

What to expect on Four Springs Winery – Seven Valleys Parking Lot loop from Jacobus

Expect a ride of two halves on this loop. The core of the route utilizes sections of the Heritage Rail Trail, offering a generally flat, crushed-stone surface that winds through shaded areas, past farm fields, and over river bridges. This part is quite scenic, with glimpses of colonial stone houses and woodlands. However, venturing off the rail trail onto local roads, especially towards areas like Glen Rock, introduces significant climbs with grades reaching over 9%. This makes the route best suited for road cyclists who are comfortable with varied surfaces and ready for some challenging ascents.

Planning your visit

Starting from Jacobus, you'll connect to the Heritage Rail Trail, with the Seven Valleys Parking Lot serving as a convenient access point. Be aware that while the rail trail is mostly crushed stone, some sections are paved, and road cyclists with thin tires should be mindful of the rougher crushed-stone surfaces. Local roads can have varying conditions and shoulders, and past detours, such as an overpass closure near Four Springs Winery, have required navigating local streets to rejoin the trail.

Trail details

• Distance: 34.2 miles (55.1 km)
• Elevation gain: 2145 feet (654 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 49 minutes