The best road cycling routes around Harrisburg

Road cycling routes around Harrisburg offer a diverse landscape. You'll find a mix of paved paths, dedicated bike lanes, and some on-road sections. The terrain varies from flat river trails along the Susquehanna River to routes that traverse wooded areas, residential neighborhoods, and urban settings, providing options for different fitness levels.

Yes, Harrisburg offers several easy routes. For a relaxed ride blending park scenery and urban sections, consider the Skunk Creek Spur – Sertoma Park loop from Lincoln High School, which is about 20.5 miles. Another easy option is the Sertoma Park – Bridge over Big Sioux River loop from Augustana University, covering about 13.7 miles through parklands and along river crossings.

Many routes in Harrisburg feature the majestic Susquehanna River. The River View – Falls Park Waterfalls loop from Lincoln High School is a moderate 44.6-mile route known for its river views and passing by waterfalls. The Pedestrian Bridge – River View loop from Augustana University also offers excellent river vistas. Additionally, the Capital Area Greenbelt includes sections like Riverfront Park, providing panoramic views and urban artwork along the Susquehanna.

For a longer ride, the River View – Falls Park Waterfalls loop from Lincoln High School is a moderate 44.6-mile route. Beyond specific routes, the Capital Area Greenbelt itself is a 20-24 mile loop encircling the city, which can be combined with other sections for extended rides. The broader Central Pennsylvania region also offers longer rail trails like the Stony Valley Railroad Grade Trail (over 21 miles) and the Heritage Rail Trail (about 25 miles) for varied terrain.

Harrisburg's cycling routes often connect to significant landmarks. The Capital Area Greenbelt, for instance, provides access to Sertoma Park, Riverfront Park with its gardens, Wildwood Park, and Reservoir Park, which offers views of Harrisburg and is near the National Civil War Museum. You can also find spurs leading to historical sites like Fort Hunter Mansion & Park.

The best time for road cycling in Harrisburg is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, from spring blooms to autumn foliage. While some trails are accessible year-round, winter conditions can bring snow and ice, making certain routes less suitable for road bikes.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Harrisburg are designed as loops. The Capital Area Greenbelt is a prominent 20-24 mile loop that encircles the city. Specific komoot routes like the River View – Falls Park Waterfalls loop from Lincoln High School and the Skunk Creek Spur – Sertoma Park loop from Lincoln High School are also excellent loop options, varying in distance and difficulty.

The road cycling experience in Harrisburg is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic riverfront views, and the accessibility of routes that connect various parks and historical sites. The blend of urban and natural settings, particularly along the Capital Area Greenbelt, is a frequently highlighted aspect.

Yes, Harrisburg offers several family-friendly options, especially on its dedicated bike paths. The Capital Area Greenbelt, with its mix of paved and gravel paths, is largely accessible for various fitness levels and bike types, making it suitable for families. Shorter, easy loops like the Roadbike loop from Lincoln High School (about 6.2 miles) are also great choices for families.

Parking is generally available at various access points along the major cycling routes in Harrisburg. For instance, areas around Riverfront Park, Wildwood Park, and City Island often provide parking facilities. Many routes also start or pass by public parks and educational institutions like Lincoln High School or Augustana University, which may offer parking options.

While many routes in Harrisburg are relatively flat, especially along the river, some sections and routes do offer more varied topography. The River View – Falls Park Waterfalls loop from Lincoln High School, for example, is a moderate route with an elevation gain of approximately 245 meters, providing a more challenging experience compared to flatter loops.