The best road cycling routes around Hershey

There are over 50 road cycling routes around Hershey, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include routes for various skill levels, from easy loops to more challenging rides with significant elevation gain.

Road cycling in Hershey features a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and well-maintained paths. You'll encounter a mix of wooded areas, open farmlands, and routes alongside picturesque rivers and creeks like the Swatara Creek. The topography provides varied terrain, from gentle gradients to more challenging ascents.

Yes, Hershey offers several road cycling routes perfect for beginners. There are 11 easy routes available, such as the East Chocolate Avenue loop from Hershey, which is a 14.9-mile (23.9 km) trail. These routes typically have less elevation gain and are shorter in distance, providing a comfortable introduction to road cycling in the area.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Hershey's rolling hills provide routes with significant elevation gain. While most routes are moderate, there are 2 difficult routes available. Routes like the East Chocolate Avenue – Hershey loop from Hershey, a 40.5-mile (65.1 km) route with over 470 meters of ascent, offer a good test of fitness.

While many road cycling routes are on public roads, the region also features dedicated trails that are more suitable for families. The Jonathan Eshelman Memorial Trail, for instance, winds through Hershey, providing a pleasant, accessible ride. Additionally, the interconnected Conewago Trail and Lebanon Valley Rail-Trail offer diverse and peaceful riding experiences on mostly flat, well-maintained surfaces, ideal for a family outing.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Hershey are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Hershey – East Chocolate Avenue loop from Hershey and the Swatara Creek loop from Penn State Hershey, providing convenient options for exploring the area.

Road cycling routes in Hershey offer a variety of scenic views. You can expect to ride through serene wooded sections, open farmlands, and alongside waterways like the Swatara Creek. The wider Central Pennsylvania region, accessible from Hershey, also features charming Amish farms and historic covered bridges, adding a unique cultural and scenic element to your rides. For a different kind of natural exploration, the Indian Echo Caverns are also nearby.

The road cycling routes in Hershey are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, which includes rolling hills and scenic stretches through wooded areas and farmlands. The well-maintained paths and the variety of routes catering to different skill levels are also frequently highlighted.

While specific parking details vary by trailhead, many popular cycling routes and trails in the Hershey area, such as the Jonathan Eshelman Memorial Trail and the rail-trails, typically have designated parking areas at their access points. It's advisable to check specific trail information for the most convenient parking locations.

The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Hershey, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery as foliage changes or blooms. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible, but routes may be affected by snow and ice, requiring appropriate gear and caution.

Yes, many of the cycling paths and routes in the Hershey area feature well-paved surfaces, making them ideal for road bikes. The Jonathan Eshelman Memorial Trail and sections of the Capital Area Greenbelt are examples of routes with paved sections. The Conewago Trail and Lebanon Valley Rail-Trail also offer smooth, well-maintained surfaces, though some sections may be cinder or earth.

Absolutely. The Hershey area is rich in outdoor activities. After a ride, you could explore the Indian Echo Caverns, stroll through Hershey Gardens, or visit nearby state parks like Little Buffalo State Park for additional hiking opportunities. The region's natural beauty and attractions offer plenty of ways to extend your outdoor adventure.

For additional information on biking and trails throughout the Hershey and Harrisburg region, you can visit the local tourism website: visithersheyharrisburg.org. This resource provides broader details on outdoor activities in the area.