The best traffic-free bike rides in Leonard Harrison State Park

There are 3 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes available in and around Leonard Harrison State Park. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful cycling experience away from vehicular traffic, primarily utilizing the scenic Pine Creek Rail Trail.

The primary draw for no-traffic touring cycling in this region is the 62-mile Pine Creek Rail Trail. This multi-use trail follows a former railroad bed through the stunning Pine Creek Gorge, offering a relatively flat, crushed stone surface that is perfect for a relaxed, traffic-free ride. It's considered one of Pennsylvania's most scenic bike paths.

The routes primarily follow the Pine Creek Rail Trail, which features a crushed stone surface and a gentle grade, making it largely flat. This makes most routes, like the Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township, suitable for easy touring. Some longer loops, such as the Pine Creek Gorge – Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township, are rated moderate due to their distance and slight elevation changes.

The park is beautiful year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions for cycling. In spring, the forests are lush and green, while fall brings spectacular foliage with vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges along the canyon walls. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear for potential snow and ice.

Yes, the Pine Creek Rail Trail, which forms the backbone of these routes, is exceptionally family-friendly and ideal for beginners. Its flat, well-maintained crushed stone surface and absence of vehicle traffic provide a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages and skill levels. The Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township is an easy option perfect for families.

Cyclists can expect breathtaking views of the Pine Creek Gorge, often called Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon. The routes offer panoramic vistas from various overlooks, especially within Leonard Harrison State Park. You'll also follow the scenic Pine Creek, a designated Pennsylvania Scenic and Wild River, and pass through lush forests. While not directly on the cycling trail, the nearby Turkey Path hiking trail descends to the creek, passing spectacular waterfalls.

Yes, the Pine Creek Rail Trail connects directly to Leonard Harrison State Park, where you can find a visitor center with exhibits about the canyon's geology and history. The trail also passes near Colton Point State Park, located directly across the gorge, offering different perspectives. For more information on the park and its attractions, you can visit pa.gov.

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on the Pine Creek Rail Trail, which is the main no-traffic cycling route. However, they must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Always ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.

Yes, there are circular routes that incorporate sections of the Pine Creek Rail Trail. For example, the Pine Creek Gorge loop from Olmsville offers a moderate 28.5 km loop experience, allowing you to explore different facets of the gorge and surrounding areas.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the unparalleled scenic beauty of the Pine Creek Gorge, the peaceful and traffic-free nature of the Pine Creek Rail Trail, and its accessibility for all skill levels. The opportunity to combine cycling with stunning natural vistas is a consistent highlight.

Parking is available at various access points along the Pine Creek Rail Trail. Within Leonard Harrison State Park, there are designated parking areas for visitors. It's advisable to check the official park website or local trail maps for specific parking lot locations and any potential fees before your visit.