The best MTB trails around Bethlehem

Mountain bike trails in Bethlehem and the Lehigh Valley offer a diverse landscape. You'll find everything from serene, flatter paths and narrow dirt singletrack along waterways like Jordan Creek, to challenging steep, rocky hillsides and trails with jumps and drops in areas like Trexler Nature Preserve. Expect rolling hills, dense woodlands, and scenic views of the Lehigh Valley.

Yes, Bethlehem offers trails suitable for various skill levels, including beginners. For an easier ride, consider the Lehigh Mountain Park loop from Sterner's Island, which is an easy 6.9-mile (11.1 km) path. Jordan Creek Park and Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center also provide trails ideal for casual riders seeking a less strenuous experience.

For advanced riders seeking a challenge, Salisbury Walking Purchase Park, located behind St. Luke's Hospital, offers 11 miles of hand-built trails with steep, rocky terrain. Trexler Nature Preserve also features thrilling trails with jumps, drops, and high-speed turns, including the famous 'Jack O' Diamonds' trail. Additionally, the South Mountain Preserve provides adventurous climbs and thrilling descents with views of the entire Valley.

Many trails in the Bethlehem area offer scenic views and pass by interesting features. Elevated points in areas like South Mountain Preserve and Black River Sanctuary can reward riders with panoramic views of the entire Lehigh Valley. The D&L Trail, while generally flatter, runs alongside the Lehigh River, offering picturesque river views and historical landmarks. You might also encounter house-sized glacial boulders and bubbling creeks on various routes. For specific points of interest, consider exploring Bethlehem Steel Plant or the Jordan Creek Parkway.

Yes, several locations cater to families. Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center and State Park offers 18 miles of dirt, grass, and gravel paths that are ideal for casual and family rides. Jordan Creek Park also has trails suitable for both beginners and experts, making it a good option for families with varying skill levels. The D&L Trail, with its generally flatter surface, is another excellent choice for a family outing.

The Lehigh Valley region, including Bethlehem, offers enjoyable mountain biking conditions across multiple seasons. Spring and fall are particularly popular due to milder temperatures and vibrant foliage. However, the extensive trail network means you can find suitable rides throughout much of the year, with some trails offering winter riding opportunities depending on conditions.

Yes, many mountain bike routes in Bethlehem are designed as loops. For example, the Lehigh Mountain Park loop from Bethlehem is a popular 12.1-mile (19.5 km) circular trail. Another option is the Mountainbike loop from Bethlehem, which covers 9.6 miles (15.5 km) through varied local terrain.

The mountain bike routes in Bethlehem are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 140 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse trails, scenic woodlands, and the well-maintained network thanks to local groups like the Valley Mountain Bikers.

Many outdoor areas in the Lehigh Valley are dog-friendly, but specific regulations can vary by park or preserve. It's always best to check the rules for the particular trail you plan to ride. For general information on local trails and linear parks, you can consult the City of Bethlehem's recreation resources.

Bethlehem's trail network is well-integrated with its urban areas, making some trails relatively accessible. While specific public transport routes to trailheads would require local transit information, many popular parks like Jordan Creek Park are located practically alongside major routes. Parking is generally available at trailheads for major parks and preserves, though it's advisable to check specific park websites for details during peak times.

While this guide focuses on individual routes, the D&L Trail (Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor Trail) offers an extensive pathway spanning 165 miles, with 48 miles crossing through the Lehigh Valley. This trail provides a longer, flatter option suitable for biking, often alongside river views and historical landmarks, including the Lehigh Canal.

The longest mountain bike route featured in this guide is the Lehigh Mountain Park loop from Hanover Township, which spans 24.5 km (15.2 miles) and is rated as moderate difficulty.