The best cycling routes around Trafford
4.7
(28)
314
riders
12
rides
Touring cycling around Trafford offers a network of dedicated cycling paths and green spaces. The area is characterized by its waterways, including the Bridgewater Canal and Manchester Ship Canal, which provide flat, traffic-free routes. The terrain is generally low-lying, with gentle elevation changes suitable for various cycling abilities. Trafford's landscape combines urban greenways with canal-side paths and nature reserves.
Best touring cycling routes around Trafford
- The most popular touring cycling route is Westmoreland Heritage Trail, an 11.3 miles (18.2…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.5
(6)
28
riders
18.2km
01:10
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
37
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
17
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
23
riders
16.4km
01:01
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
16.1km
01:31
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Bathrooms, well water station, campgrounds & Shelter , free wood, bike repair station.
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Cute little town, but watch out for people Sitting on trail during baseball games
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This is a good place to take a break on a hot day, as the waterfall produces cold wind. DO NOT DRINK this water, It is from an acid mine and the red-orange color comes from iron and rust.
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S THE WATERFALL Demonstrating acid mnine drainage The water here is acid and iron-rich, coming up to the surface from underground mines, stairung the-rocks ruspred. Acid mine drainage (AMID) is a major source of water pollution. Cause of extensive stream environmental damage. The Ocean Coal Company, a subsidiaries of Bevind- White Coal Company Philadelphia, PA, esaiblished several mines in this region including, in 1900, Ocean No. 2. It is purported that drainage from ocean No. 2 is the chief cause of the Red Waterfall Why is it acidic and full of iron? Hundreds of millions of years ago, the massive Pittsburgh Coal Seam formed underneath parts of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohiờ from ancient swamp plants. Sand, silts, shells, and other -matter were deposited and made a rock seal over the carbon-rich vegetation, This rock contained the mineral "pyrite," made of iron and sulfur Coal mining exposes pyrite to oxygen and ground water causing the formation of sulfuric acid and a number of red, orange, and yellow compound s. AMD occurs when this mine water seeps, or in this-case, bursts out into Streams. The yellow sulfur can be seen in the shale near coal seams. GRESCHIN DASSAGE SPONSORED BY: Southwestern PA Heritage Breservation- Commission Allegheny Trail Alliances Regional Trail Corpofation For moterinformation. www.gaptrail.org
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its just a cemetery. i was riding for distance. and needed this place to keep the route on the GAP trail.
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There are a Ton of Japanese barberry bushes so be careful not to get pricked
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Entrance to the Funk Bikeway on Heritage trail
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The Red Waterfall is one of the main highlights on the GAP between West Newton and McKeesport. The falls gets its name from the water that has been colored red by nearby underground coal mines, which has made the water acidic and iron-rich water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Trafford?
Trafford offers a selection of 8 touring cycling routes, catering to various preferences and skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews.
What types of terrain can I expect on Trafford's touring cycling routes?
The touring cycling routes in Trafford are generally low-lying with gentle elevation changes. You'll find a mix of dedicated cycling paths, picturesque canal towpaths like the Bridgewater Way, and green spaces. Many routes are paved, making them suitable for various cycling abilities.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Trafford?
Yes, Trafford has 5 easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. An example is the Westmoreland Heritage Trail, which is 11.3 miles (18.2 km) long and features a relatively low elevation gain, making it a comfortable ride.
What are some moderate touring cycling routes in Trafford?
For those seeking a bit more challenge, Trafford offers 3 moderate touring cycling routes. The Westmoreland Heritage Trail – Turtle Creek loop from Highway Route opp Pine Valley Drive is a popular choice, covering 19.2 miles (30.9 km) with more significant elevation changes for a varied experience. Another moderate option is the Homestead Pump House – View of US Steel Plant loop from West Mifflin.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Trafford?
Yes, several routes in Trafford offer a circular experience. For instance, the Duff Park – Duff Park loop from Advanced Auto Parts is a 10.5-mile (16.9 km) trail that leads through parkland, providing a convenient loop for cyclists.
What kind of natural features or attractions can I see along the touring cycling routes?
While cycling in Trafford, you can explore various points of interest. Along some routes, you might encounter landmarks such as the McKeesport Connecting Railroad Bridge or historical sites like the Dravo Cemetery. There are also viewpoints like the View of Phantom’s Revenge at Kennywood Park, offering unique sights.
Are Trafford's cycling routes suitable for families with children?
Many of Trafford's routes, particularly those along the Bridgewater Way canal towpath, are traffic-free and relatively flat, making them ideal for families. The 5 easy routes available are generally well-suited for cyclists of all ages and abilities.
What makes Trafford a good destination for touring cyclists?
Trafford is well-suited for touring cycling due to its extensive network of established routes and traffic-free pathways, including the scenic Bridgewater Way. The area's low-lying terrain and mix of urban greenways, canal-side paths, and nature reserves provide diverse and accessible cycling experiences for all skill levels.
Can I find routes that combine urban greenways with natural landscapes in Trafford?
Absolutely. Trafford's touring cycling routes often blend urban greenways with natural settings. You can experience canal-side cycling along the historic Bridgewater Canal, explore green spaces like Sale Water Park, or discover nature reserves such as Trafford Ecology Park, even within industrial areas.
What do other touring cyclists say about their experience in Trafford?
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Trafford, with an impressive average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the accessibility of the routes, the pleasant canal towpaths, and the variety of landscapes that combine urban and natural elements.
Are there any routes that offer a blend of industrial heritage and natural beauty?
Yes, routes in Trafford often showcase a unique blend of industrial heritage and natural beauty, particularly along the Bridgewater Canal and Manchester Ship Canal. These waterways, historically central to the region's development, now offer tranquil cycling paths alongside significant green spaces and wildlife areas.
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