Benches – Middle Run Natural Area loop from Milford Crossroads

If you're eyeing the Benches – Middle Run Natural Area loop from Milford Crossroads for a touring cycling adventure, you need to know this isn't your typical smooth ride. This 7.5-mile (12.1 km) route, with a moderate difficulty rating and 661 feet (201 metres) of elevation gain, is estimated to take around 1 hour and 14 minutes, but it's fundamentally designed for mountain biking, not traditional touring. It's a challenging off-road experience best suited for those on robust gravel bikes or mountain bikes, not standard touring setups.

What to expect on Benches – Middle Run Natural Area loop from Milford Crossroads

The Middle Run Natural Area offers a journey through 850 acres of varied landscapes, from dense forests to open fields, with creeks and ponds adding to the natural beauty. You'll encounter a hilly and bumpy terrain, often compared to sections of the Appalachian Trail, featuring packed dirt surfaces interspersed with technical elements like rocks, roots, switchbacks, and stream crossings. While some trails are described as "fast and flowy," these are typically singletrack meant for mountain bikes. The scenery is particularly picturesque along Middle Run Creek, where the water carves its path through rocks, and bridges offer scenic stopping points. This route demands significant effort and is not recommended for beginners on touring bikes due to its technical nature; protective gear is a must.

Planning your visit

Before you head out, be aware that this area is primarily a mountain biking park. While there's no admission fee to Middle Run Natural Area, the challenging terrain means traditional touring cyclists will find it unsuitable. The trails are well-groomed when dry, but can become significantly more difficult and muddy when wet, so plan your visit for dry conditions. Parking is available, implied by the Milford Crossroads starting point, but always check local signage. Given the demanding nature, ensure your bike is appropriate for off-road conditions, and consider wearing protective gear.

Trail details

• Distance: 7.5 miles (12.1 km)
• Elevation gain: 661 feet (201 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 14 minutes