The best traffic-free bike rides in Laurel Ridge State Park

There are 5 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes featured in this guide for Laurel Ridge State Park and its vicinity. These include 2 easy routes, 1 moderate route, and 2 difficult routes, offering options for various skill levels.

The Laurel Highlands region offers stunning scenery throughout the year. Spring (late April to June) brings vibrant green forests and blooming mountain laurel. Fall (mid-October) is spectacular with its rich foliage. Summer (July and August) provides warm weather for cycling. Each season offers a unique visual experience on the trails.

Yes, there are easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Eliza Furnace loop from Dilltown is an easy option that provides a pleasant ride without significant traffic concerns. These routes often feature gentler gradients and well-maintained surfaces.

Many no-traffic routes in the Laurel Highlands, such as sections of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP Trail) and other rail-trails like the Coal and Coke Trail or Indian Creek Valley Trail, feature crushed limestone or packed gravel surfaces. Some routes may also incorporate paved sections or gated dirt roads within areas like Forbes State Forest, suitable for touring bicycles equipped for varied surfaces.

Parking is generally available at trailheads for major rail-trails like the Great Allegheny Passage, Coal and Coke Trail, and Indian Creek Valley Trail. For routes like the Ghost Town Trail – Eliza Furnace loop from Dilltown, you can typically find parking near the starting points in towns like Dilltown or other access points along the trails.

The region is rich in natural beauty. Routes often pass through dense Appalachian forests, offering glimpses of dramatic gorges like the Conemaugh Gorge, and significant geological formations such as the Allegheny Front. The Youghiogheny River is a prominent natural feature, especially near Ohiopyle State Park, which many routes connect to or pass through. You might also encounter sandstone outcroppings and various scenic overlooks.

Many rail-trails in Pennsylvania, including sections of the Great Allegheny Passage and other multi-use trails, are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them. However, specific regulations can vary, so it's always best to check the rules for the particular trail you plan to ride.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Ohiopyle – Ohiopyle State Park loop from State Game Lands Number 111, which offers a comprehensive cycling experience in a circular format.

While the Great Allegheny Passage can be popular, exploring some of the smaller rail-trails like the Coal and Coke Trail or the Indian Creek Valley Trail, or venturing onto the gated dirt and gravel roads within Forbes State Forest (where permitted for bikes), can offer a more secluded experience. Routes like the Honan Avenue Trail – Viewpoint of South Fork Dam loop from Johnstown might also provide a quieter ride depending on the season.

The towns and communities along major rail-trails, particularly the Great Allegheny Passage, often have amenities catering to cyclists. Ohiopyle, for example, is a popular hub with various services. You'll find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options in towns situated near trailheads or along the routes, especially in larger communities like Johnstown or those bordering Ohiopyle State Park.

For touring cycling in this region, essential items include a well-maintained touring bicycle, appropriate cycling attire, a helmet, water bottles or a hydration pack, snacks, a basic repair kit (spare tube, pump, tire levers), navigation tools (like komoot), sun protection, and layers of clothing to adapt to changing weather. Given the varied terrain, consider tires suitable for gravel or crushed limestone surfaces.

Beyond the natural beauty, the Laurel Highlands is home to significant cultural landmarks. Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural masterpieces, Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob, are notable attractions that can be visited in conjunction with your cycling trip, offering a rich blend of outdoor adventure and cultural enrichment.