The best cycling routes around Lehighton

There are 7 touring cycling routes around Lehighton. These include 3 easy, 2 moderate, and 2 difficult routes, offering options for various skill levels. Over 222 touring cyclists have explored these routes using komoot.

Yes, Lehighton offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. The Views of the Lehigh River loop from Lehighton is an 8.5-mile (13.7 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, offering pleasant riverside views. Another accessible option is the Bridge view – Views of the Lehigh River loop from Lehighton, which is 13.2 miles (21.3 km) long.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Lehighton offers routes with significant distance and elevation. The Buttermilk Falls – Lehigh Gorge Trail loop from Jim Thorpe is a difficult 45.3-mile (73.0 km) path traversing the scenic Lehigh Gorge Trail, featuring waterfalls and river views. Another demanding option is the Ironton Rail Trail loop from Lehighton, a 44.5-mile (71.6 km) route with notable elevation gain.

The region is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks. Many routes follow the Lehigh River, offering stunning Views of the Lehigh River and passing through the dramatic Lehigh Gorge. You might encounter waterfalls like Buttermilk Falls and Luke's Falls along the Lehigh Gorge Trail. The area is also part of the Pocono Mountains, providing picturesque landscapes and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including Bald Eagles and Blue Herons. Some routes also feature historical elements like the Abandoned Coal Tunnel.

Yes, several touring cycling routes around Lehighton are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Views of the Lehigh River loop from Lehighton, the Bridge view – Views of the Lehigh River loop from Lehighton, and the Bridge view – Abandoned Coal Tunnel loop from Jim Thorpe.

Lehighton offers enjoyable touring cycling experiences across multiple seasons. Spring and fall are particularly popular due to comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage, especially in the Pocono Mountains. The D&L Trail, which passes through Lehighton, is accessible year-round, with winter offering opportunities for cross-country skiing in nearby state parks like Beltzville State Park.

Many routes in Lehighton, especially those along the D&L Trail and easy riverside paths, are suitable for families. The nearly level Lehigh Gorge Trail, part of the D&L Trail system, is particularly popular for its gentle terrain and scenic views, making it ideal for cyclists of all ages. Riverview Park in Lehighton also offers easy access to the D&L Trail.

Many outdoor areas and trails in the Lehighton region, including sections of the D&L Trail and state parks like Beltzville State Park, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. It's always recommended to check specific park regulations or trail guidelines before heading out with your pet to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Lehighton is well-equipped for cyclists. The Lehighton Outdoor Center serves as a hub for outdoor adventures, offering bike rentals (including specialized bikes and e-bikes), shuttle services for the D&L Trail, bike sales, and repair services. Riverview Park also hosts Riverview Bike Rentals, providing affordable mountain bike rentals and instant access to the D&L Trail.

The touring cycling routes in Lehighton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 13 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's picturesque landscapes, the diverse terrain ranging from river valleys to the Pocono Mountains, and the well-maintained rail trails like the D&L Trail. The presence of natural features such as the Lehigh River and its gorge, along with historical elements, also contributes to a highly enjoyable experience.

Yes, the natural environments around Lehighton, particularly within the Pocono Mountains and along the Lehigh River, are home to diverse wildlife. Cyclists often report spotting Bald Eagles, Blue Herons, Egrets, Hawks, and Fishers. The lush forests and riverine habitats provide excellent opportunities for observing local fauna while cycling.

The Lehighton area offers spectacular panoramic views. While cycling, you might encounter vistas such as the 100 Mile View on Flagstaff Mountain overlooking Mahoning Valley and the Lehigh River. The Mount Pisgah Trail in Jim Thorpe provides stunning views into Lehigh Gorge State Park, and Tank Hollow Overlook offers a beautiful perspective of a bend in the Lehigh River. Many routes along the Lehigh Gorge Trail also provide scenic river views.