The best road cycling routes in Delaware County

Delaware County offers over 20 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy and moderate paths, with options for different distances and terrains.

The region features diverse terrain, including riverfront paths, routes through expansive state parks, and multi-use trails. While many routes offer gentle gradients, some, particularly those on the hilly back roads, present more challenging elevation gains. For example, the Char-Mar Ridge Park – McNamara Park loop includes over 200 meters of elevation gain, while the Alum Creek – Alum Creek Trail loop is flatter with about 109 meters of ascent.

Yes, Delaware County has several family-friendly options. Routes like the Sunbury – Genoa Trail loop are classified as easy and are suitable for a relaxed ride. The Genoa Trail itself is a 4-mile paved path, ideal for road bikes and families.

Many routes offer scenic views and pass by notable natural features. You can explore areas like Alum Creek, which features Alum Creek Lake and the Out of Africa Trail. The region also includes parts of the Circuit Trails network, offering rides along the Delaware River in Pennsylvania, and parks like Ridley Creek State Park and Tyler Arboretum.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Delaware County, with moderate temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially on shaded routes, but be mindful of higher temperatures and humidity. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions can vary with snow and ice.

Yes, Delaware County offers several longer routes for endurance cyclists. The Char-Mar Ridge Park – McNamara Park loop is a moderate 42.1-mile ride, and the View from Home Road Bridge loop from Olentangy Liberty High School is another moderate option spanning over 42 miles.

Many routes start from locations with available parking, such as the GetGo Gas Station for the Alum Creek – Alum Creek Trail loop or Olentangy Liberty High School for the View from Home Road Bridge loop. Specific parking details are usually available on individual route pages.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied scenery, the network of multi-use trails, and the options for different ability levels, from easy, flat routes to more challenging paths.

Absolutely. Routes like the Genoa Trail loop from GetGo Gas Station, at just over 10 miles, are classified as easy and are perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. The Sunbury loop from Big Walnut High School is another easy option.

While specific cafes are not always directly on every route, many routes start or pass through towns and areas where refreshments can be found. For example, routes originating from GetGo Gas Stations or near places like Polaris Fashion Place (Alum Creek – Alum Creek Trail loop from Polaris Fashion Place) often have amenities nearby. The Delaware Valley Bicycling Club, active in the Pennsylvania part of Delaware County, often utilizes back roads that may have local establishments.

For cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the View from Home Road Bridge loop from Shawnee Hills offer moderate difficulty with significant distances and some elevation changes. The hilly back roads, particularly in Delaware County, PA, also provide opportunities for more strenuous rides.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Delaware County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Char-Mar Ridge Park – McNamara Park loop and the Fancher Cemetary – Genoa Trail loop, providing convenient round trips.