The best traffic-free bike rides around Allentown

There are nearly 20 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Allentown, offering a variety of experiences for all skill levels. These routes are carefully selected to keep you away from vehicular traffic, providing a peaceful and safe cycling environment.

Allentown's gravel trails offer a diverse range of terrain, from relatively flat canal paths to routes with moderate elevation changes and some more demanding climbs. You'll find a good mix, with 6 easy routes, 10 moderate routes, and 3 more difficult options, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Yes, several trails are ideal for families. The Lehigh Parkway Gravel Loop, for instance, is a 6.25-mile loop with a well-maintained gravel surface and some paved sections, offering scenic views along the Little Lehigh River. It's known for being family-friendly and accessible.

Many trails in the Allentown area welcome dogs, especially those that are part of the extensive park system. The Lehigh Parkway Gravel Loop is a popular choice that allows dogs, making it a great option for cycling with your canine companion.

Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. For an easy ride, consider the Laubach Island loop from Allentown Art Museum, which covers about 24 km. Another easy loop is the Ruins of pottery building – Ruins of pottery building loop from Allentown Art Museum, spanning around 14 km.

Allentown's trails often run alongside the beautiful Lehigh River and Little Lehigh River, providing picturesque views. You might also encounter historic structures like Bogert's Bridge or the Stone Bridges of Lehigh Parkway. The Trexler Nature Preserve, accessible from some routes, offers spectacular views of the Lehigh Valley and opportunities to see elk and bison.

Beyond natural beauty, you can explore several landmarks. The Bethlehem Steel Plant offers a glimpse into industrial history. The Stone Bridges of Lehigh Parkway are also notable. For nature lovers, the Trexler Nature Preserve is a significant attraction with trails and wildlife.

The Allentown area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of well-maintained rail trails and canal paths that offer peaceful, car-free riding experiences, as well as the scenic river views and diverse terrain.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a longer and more challenging adventure, the Bogert Covered Bridge – Saucon Rail Trail loop from Lehigh Valley Hospital is a difficult route spanning over 72 km with significant elevation changes. The Ironton Rail Trail also presents a more difficult, longer option for experienced riders.

While gravel biking is enjoyable year-round, spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm, but shaded sections along rivers provide relief. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice on trails.

Yes, the region has some lovely water features. Antietam Lake Park, a short distance from Allentown, features a scenic waterfall. Additionally, the Hassen Creek Nature Trail in Fogelsville Dam Park includes a man-made waterfall, offering a unique visual element to your ride.

Many of Allentown's trails, especially those within the city's extensive park system like Lehigh Parkway, offer convenient parking access. While specific public transport links vary by trail, the city's focus on connecting communities through trail networks like THE LINK often means good accessibility to trailheads.