Howard Tunnel – Seven Valleys Parking Lot loop from Brillhart
Howard Tunnel – Seven Valleys Parking Lot loop from Brillhart
2.6
(16)
74
riders
Howard Tunnel – Seven Valleys Parking Lot loop from Brillhart
01:09
17.9km
90m
Cycling
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 18, 2026
Tips
Temporary access restrictions
Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.
After 5.96 km for 243 m
Closed: • sunset-sunrise (otherwise open)
After 9.01 km for 66 m
Closed: • sunset-sunrise (otherwise open)
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
2.95 km
Howard Tunnel
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
6.11 km
Gladfelters Station trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
8.45 km
Seven Valleys Parking Lot
Highlight • Parking
Tip by
8.47 km
Heritage Rail Trail County Park — Seven Valleys
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
9.04 km
Four Springs Winery
Highlight • Restaurant
Tip by
17.9 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
16.6 km
488 m
452 m
188 m
124 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
16.6 km
588 m
452 m
248 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 25 June
29°C
14°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an easy, historically rich touring cycling route in York County, the Howard Tunnel – Seven Valleys Parking Lot loop from Brillhart is an excellent choice. This easy bike ride covers 11.1 miles (17.9 km) with a gentle 293 feet (89 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking just 1 hour and 9 minutes to complete. It's a perfect high-payoff win for families or anyone seeking a relaxed ride through scenic countryside and a piece of American history.
What to expect on Howard Tunnel – Seven Valleys Parking Lot loop from Brillhart
This section of the Heritage Rail Trail County Park offers a delightful journey through southern York County. Starting near Brillhart Station, you'll find the first three miles south to be shady and relaxing, following a crushed, compacted stone surface suitable for various bikes. The route winds through farmlands, cornfields, and charming villages that feel untouched by time, all while tracing the historic Northern Central Railway line. The highlight is undoubtedly the Howard Tunnel, a brick-lined marvel from 1838. While there's a gentle, largely unnoticeable uphill climb towards New Freedom on the larger trail, this specific loop is mostly flat, making it ideal for any fitness level. The trail is also shared with hikers, runners, and even horseback riders in designated sections, so expect company.
Planning your visit
Brillhart Station serves as a convenient starting point for this loop, offering ample parking and easy trail access, even Wi-Fi. The trail is particularly beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color, making it a prime season to visit. Be aware that an active rail line runs adjacent to the trail, and the Northern Central Railway excursion train operates on it, so exercise caution at railroad crossings.
Trail details
- Distance: 11.1 miles (17.9 km)
- Elevation gain: 293 feet (89 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 9 minutes
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