The best cycling routes around Glenside

There are over 15 touring cycling routes mapped by the komoot community around Glenside. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy rides to more moderate treks, covering diverse landscapes.

The touring cycling routes around Glenside are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic views, and the network of multi-use paths and quiet country roads.

Yes, Glenside offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Knight’s Bridge – Creek Road Trail loop from Lorimer Park is an easy option, covering about 14.7 km with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxed ride.

Many of the trails around Glenside are suitable for families, especially those with mostly paved or crushed stone surfaces. The Newtown Rail Trail, for instance, offers easy rides on mostly paved surfaces, making it a great choice for all fitness levels and families. The Pennypack Trail also provides a pleasant experience through lush forested areas.

Yes, Glenside features several excellent circular touring cycling routes. Popular options include the Valley Green Inn loop from Chestnut Hill East, the Newtown Rail Trail – Creek Road Trail loop from Jenkintown-Wyncote, and the Pennypack Trail loop from Fox Chase, all offering varied scenery and enjoyable rides.

For scenic views, consider routes that incorporate the Schuylkill River Trail, which winds alongside the Schuylkill River offering picturesque vistas. The Pennypack Trail leads through lush forested areas, providing a refreshing backdrop. Additionally, routes extending into Bucks County can offer lovely views of the Delaware River and peaceful stretches of forest and fields.

The Pennypack Trail offers an enchanting ride through lush forested areas, following the Penny Pack Creek. It's a 2.5-mile-long, 12-feet-wide trail of hard-packed gravel, forming part of the larger Circuit Trails system. It's known for its verdant scenery and is a popular choice for those seeking a ride through nature, such as the Pennypack Trail — South – Pennypack Trail loop from Fox Chase.

The Schuylkill River Trail is an extensive multi-use path, with over 75 miles of paved or crushed stone surfaces. Near Glenside, it offers shaded paths and verdant scenery, winding alongside the Schuylkill River. It's suitable for touring cyclists looking for longer rides through diverse landscapes, from rural areas to urban sections.

Wissahickon Valley Park, particularly Forbidden Drive, is a popular spot for cycling just a short drive from Glenside. It features a creek, bridges, and abundant tree cover, making it a classic trail for a scenic ride. While some sections might be more rugged, Forbidden Drive itself is well-maintained and suitable for touring bikes.

Beyond the trails, you can explore several attractions. Grey Towers Castle at Arcadia University is a historic site offering themed tours. Routes extending into Bucks County can lead to charming towns like Stockton, Lambertville, and New Hope. For natural beauty, consider visiting Devil's Pool or the Teedyuscung Statue, both accessible via nearby trails.

Many popular trailheads around Glenside, such as those for the Pennypack Trail, Newtown Rail Trail, and access points to the Schuylkill River Trail, offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific trail websites or local park information for detailed parking locations and any potential fees before your ride.

Glenside is well-connected by public transport, particularly via SEPTA regional rail, which can provide access to various points near cycling paths. Many stations are within cycling distance of trailheads, making it convenient to combine public transport with your touring cycling adventure.

The spring, summer, and fall seasons are excellent for touring cycling in Glenside. Spring brings pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes, while summer offers warm weather for longer rides. Autumn is particularly stunning due to the vibrant fall foliage, with maples, oaks, and birch trees creating a kaleidoscope of colors, especially in areas like Fairmount Park.