The best cycling routes in Montage Tract

Touring cycling routes in Montage Tract feature varied terrain, including dense hemlock forests and rolling hills. You'll encounter creek-side paths and challenging forest roads. The area's geology also includes unique rock features and impressive gorges, offering a diverse riding experience. Some routes, like the Everhart Museum – Davis Trail loop from PNC Field, involve significant elevation changes.

There are 5 touring cycling routes available in Montage Tract, catering to various skill levels. These include 2 easy routes, 2 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route.

Yes, Montage Tract offers easy touring cycling routes. A great option is the Lackawanna River – Scranton loop from Scranton, which is 4.5 miles (7.3 km) long and offers pleasant views along the Lackawanna River. Another easy choice is the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, a 7.2-mile (11.6 km) path through varied landscapes.

The best seasons for touring cycling in Montage Tract are generally spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer pleasant weather for exploring the dense hemlock forests and creek-side paths. While winter biking is possible, be aware that some forest roads can be slippery due to mud, washouts, and downed trees, making them more challenging.

Yes, the Montage Tract area, part of Pinchot State Forest, is known for its scenic beauty. You can find impressive gorges and expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Routes like the Scranton – View of the Lackawanna River loop from Electric City Trolley Station offer opportunities to enjoy the scenery, including views of the Lackawanna River.

Absolutely. The Montage Tract is close to the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail (LRHT), a significant multi-use trail. The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail itself is featured as a touring cycling route, offering a 7.2-mile (11.6 km) path. Other routes, such as the Lackawanna River – Scranton loop from Scranton, also provide views along the Lackawanna River.

Given the varied terrain, which includes challenging forest roads and potentially rugged sections, robust touring bikes, gravel bikes, or even mountain bikes are most suitable. While the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail offers smoother sections, the interior of Montage Tract can be demanding. E-bikes meeting DCNR standards are also permitted on approved trails and roads within Pinchot State Forest.

Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Everhart Museum – Davis Trail loop from PNC Field is classified as a difficult route. It spans 28.7 miles (46.1 km) and features significant elevation changes through the forest, making it a demanding ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from easy riverside paths to more challenging forest roads, and the natural beauty of the dense hemlock forests.

Yes, the Montage Tract is traversed by numerous creeks, contributing to scenic routes and leading to cascades and waterfalls. Notable examples include Watres Falls and unnamed brooks with scenic waterfalls, bedrock slides, rapids, pools, and boulders, adding to the natural beauty you can encounter.

While specific parking areas for each route are best checked on individual komoot tour pages, general access to Pinchot State Forest, which encompasses Montage Tract, typically includes designated parking areas. For routes starting in urban areas like Scranton, public parking facilities are usually available.

Yes, there are two moderate touring cycling routes. The Scranton – View of the Lackawanna River loop from Electric City Trolley Station is a 30.9-mile (49.7 km) route, and the View of the Lackawanna River loop from Lackawanna County covers 25.4 miles (40.8 km), both offering a balanced challenge.