The best traffic-free bike rides in Northampton County

Northampton County offers a wide selection of traffic-free road cycling routes. Our guide features 41 distinct routes, primarily of moderate difficulty, ensuring a varied experience for cyclists.

Yes, while most routes are moderate, there are 2 routes specifically rated as easy. Many of the rail trails, like sections of the Delaware & Lehigh (D&L) Trail or the Nor-Bath Trail, offer largely flat, paved surfaces ideal for families and beginners. These trails often connect parks and towns, providing a pleasant and safe cycling environment.

Many popular trailheads and parks throughout Northampton County offer dedicated parking. For instance, Hugh Moore Park in Easton, Wayne A. Grube Memorial Park for the Nor-Bath Trail, and various access points along the Delaware Canal State Park typically provide parking facilities. It's always a good idea to check specific route details for the most convenient parking options.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Kreidersville Covered Bridge loop, which offers a longer ride, and the Delaware Canal State Park – Bixlers Bluff loop from Easton. These loops provide diverse scenery without the need for shuttle arrangements.

Northampton County's routes often follow rivers like the Delaware and Lehigh, offering scenic views of riparian habitats and waterways. You'll also cycle through lush forests, especially in areas like Jacobsburg State Park. The region features diverse landscapes, from rocky ridges in the Northampton Highlands to tranquil wetlands, providing a rich natural backdrop for your ride.

Absolutely. Many routes, particularly those along the D&L Trail, pass through historic towns and offer glimpses into the region's industrial heritage. You can explore sites like the Bethlehem Steel Plant (now SteelStacks) or visit Delaware Canal State Park, which features the historic Lehigh Canal and the National Canal Museum in Easton.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Northampton County, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially on shaded rail trails, but be mindful of warmer temperatures. Winter cycling is possible, but some trails may be affected by snow or ice.

Yes, Northampton County is part of a developing network of trails. The D&L Trail connects various towns and natural areas, and the Nor-Bath Trail is intended to link with other greenways like the Hokendauqua Creek Greenway. The broader "THE LINK" Trail Network aims to connect many trails across the Lehigh Valley, offering extensive cycling opportunities.

The komoot community highly rates the routes in Northampton County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained, traffic-free paths, the scenic beauty along rivers and through forests, and the accessibility to historical sites and charming towns.

Many routes in Northampton County are designed to follow the region's prominent waterways. The Delaware & Lehigh (D&L) Trail, for example, runs alongside the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers, offering continuous views of the water. Routes like the Delaware Canal State Park – Bixlers Bluff loop from Freemansburg specifically highlight the historic Delaware Canal.

Yes, you can find routes that take you through or near Jacobsburg State Park. For instance, the Jacobsburg State Park loop from Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center offers a substantial ride through this scenic area, known for its lush forests and trails along the Bushkill Creek.

Most of the no traffic road cycling routes in Northampton County are rated as moderate difficulty, making them suitable for cyclists with some experience. These routes often feature varied terrain, including some elevation changes, but generally avoid heavy traffic, providing a comfortable challenge.