The best cycling routes in Leonard Harrison State Park

There are 4 touring cycling routes available in and around Leonard Harrison State Park. These routes offer a variety of distances and difficulty levels to suit different preferences.

The primary touring cycling experience in this region is on the Pine Creek Rail Trail, which is a generally flat, crushed stone path. This makes it ideal for a smooth ride, suitable for all skill levels. While the trail itself is flat, the surrounding Pine Creek Gorge features dramatic, deep canyon landscapes.

Yes, the Pine Creek Rail Trail, which is directly accessible from the park, is renowned for being flat and family-friendly. One easy route is the Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township, covering 16.2 km with minimal elevation gain, perfect for beginners or a leisurely family ride.

While cycling along the Pine Creek Rail Trail, you'll be treated to spectacular views of the Pine Creek Gorge, often called the "Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania." You'll see towering cliffs, lush forests, and the scenic Pine Creek itself. The park also offers handicap-accessible overlooks for stunning panoramic vistas of the canyon.

While the main cycling routes on the Pine Creek Rail Trail don't directly pass waterfalls, the park's "Turkey Path" hiking trail descends from the rim to the rail trail, passing several scenic waterfalls along Little Fourmile Run. You can combine a cycling trip with a hike to experience these beautiful cascades.

The Pine Creek Gorge is rich in wildlife. Cyclists often spot deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. Keep an eye out for bald eagles soaring overhead and otters in Pine Creek. The area's designation as a Pennsylvania Scenic and Wild River supports diverse plant and animal life.

Yes, Leonard Harrison State Park provides parking facilities for visitors. From the park, you can access the Pine Creek Rail Trail, which is the main touring cycling route in the area. There are also various access points and parking areas along the 62-mile rail trail.

Spring, summer, and especially fall are excellent times for touring cycling. Fall offers a spectacular display of vibrant foliage as the deciduous trees turn brilliant shades of orange, yellow, and red. The Pine Creek Rail Trail is also used for cross-country skiing in winter, offering a different seasonal experience.

Yes, there are several loop routes. For example, the Pine Creek Gorge – Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township is a moderate 59.2 km route, and the Pine Creek – Pine Creek Gorge loop from Blackwell offers a 52.3 km moderate option.

Yes, bike rentals and shuttle services are readily available from local businesses near the Pine Creek Rail Trail. This allows for flexible trip planning, including one-way rides or shorter excursions, making it convenient for touring cyclists without their own equipment or those planning longer trips.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the breathtaking scenery of the Pine Creek Gorge, the flat and well-maintained Pine Creek Rail Trail, and the abundance of wildlife. The ease of access and the family-friendly nature of the trail are also frequently highlighted.

While the Pine Creek Rail Trail itself is generally flat, some routes combine sections of the trail with other roads or offer longer distances. The Pine Creek Gorge – Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township is a moderate 59.2 km route, and the Pine Creek loop from State Game Lands Number 313 is a moderate 39.0 km option, providing a good distance challenge.