The best road cycling routes around Reading

Reading, Pennsylvania, offers a diverse road cycling landscape, characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and scenic waterways. You'll encounter challenging climbs due to the region's geological features like the Reading Prong, as well as flatter sections along rivers and dedicated trails. The area is known for its well-maintained secondary roads, providing varied experiences for all skill levels.

Yes, Reading offers several challenging routes. For instance, the Maiden Creek loop is a difficult 60.6-mile route with over 3,500 feet of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Lake Ontelaunee Trail – Lake Ontelaunee loop from Reading, covering 63.1 miles with significant climbs. Routes around Mount Penn and Skyline Drive also provide substantial challenges.

Absolutely. Reading has a good selection of moderate road cycling routes. A popular choice is the Mount Penn loop, a 14.1-mile path known for its well-paved surfaces and views from the iconic Reading Pagoda. Other moderate options include the Cornwall Terrace Pond loop from Sinking Spring and the Skating Pond – Cornwall Terrace Pond loop from Reading.

While many road cycling routes involve hills, there are easier options suitable for families or those seeking a more relaxed ride. The asphalt-surfaced Muhlenberg Rail Trail offers a 1.75-mile accessible pathway with shade. The Union Canal Trail is another easy 5.3-mile gravel trail with views of Tulpehocken Creek, suitable for gravel bikes or hybrid bikes. The Fleetwood to Kutztown loop also provides a more leisurely 16-mile journey through the countryside.

Road cycling routes in Reading offer numerous scenic landmarks and viewpoints. The Reading Pagoda atop Mount Penn provides sweeping views of the city and surrounding lands. You might also encounter historic sites like Wertz's Covered Bridge. Many routes also feature picturesque views of lakes like Blue Marsh Lake and Lake Ontelaunee, or follow the scenic Schuylkill River.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Reading are designed as loops, offering circular journeys. Examples include the challenging Maiden Creek loop, the moderate Mount Penn loop, and the Lake Ontelaunee Trail – Lake Ontelaunee loop from Reading. These circular routes allow you to start and end at the same point, making logistics easier.

The road cycling experience in Reading is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from reviewers. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging climbs to scenic, well-maintained secondary roads, and the beautiful natural surroundings like dense woodlands and picturesque lakes.

Yes, Reading features several routes along waterways. The Schuylkill River Greenway Trails offer dedicated pathways for cyclists, winding along the riverbanks and connecting neighboring towns. The Thun Trail, part of the Schuylkill River system, is a flat, rail-to-trail option suitable for gravel bikes. You can also find routes around Blue Marsh Lake and Lake Ontelaunee, providing scenic lakeside cycling.

Many road cycling routes in Reading traverse or are surrounded by extensive forested areas. The region is known for its dense woodlands, including areas near Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center and French Creek State Park. These routes offer serene environments and often provide welcome shade, especially during warmer months.

There are over 15 road cycling routes available around Reading, catering to various skill levels. This includes 15 moderate routes and 2 difficult routes, ensuring there's an option for almost every road cyclist.

Beyond the Reading Pagoda, you might encounter the historic Wertz's Covered Bridge. The Union Canal Trail and Schuylkill River Trail themselves are points of interest, offering pleasant riding experiences. For nature enthusiasts, Highlands Park is also nearby.