Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Susquehanna Warrior Trail
Cycling
5.0
(1)
The Susquehanna Warrior Trail is a scenic, multi-use rail trail spanning approximately 12.5 miles along the west bank of the Susquehanna River in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. This crushed-stone path offers a peaceful route through the Susquehanna River Valley, connecting the Susquehanna Riverlands in Salem Township to Canal Park in West Nanticoke. It's a cherished part of the Mid-Atlantic region's outdoor recreation network, known for its gentle terrain and riverside charm.
Visitors consistently praise the trail for its tranquil river views and well-maintained surface, making it ideal for a variety of outdoor activities. The combination of natural beauty, opportunities for wildlife observation, and glimpses into local history are frequently highlighted. Its relatively flat profile and family-friendly atmosphere are also key draws, providing an accessible outdoor experience for all ages and skill levels.
Before heading out, it's helpful to know that the trail features a hard-packed crushed stone surface, about ten feet wide, suitable for walking, running, and cycling. This makes it a great option for beginner hiking and biking. Parking and access points are available at both ends, including Susquehanna Riverlands Park, which also offers amenities like picnic tables and playgrounds. While generally flat, comfortable footwear is always recommended.
The Susquehanna Warrior Trail is enjoyable throughout the year, with each season offering a unique experience. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall foliage transforms the landscape into a vibrant display, making it a best time of year to visit for scenic views. During warmer months, shaded sections provide comfort, and the trail is popular for leisurely bike rides, trail running, and family walks. Wildlife, such as bald eagles and herons, can often be spotted along the river.
While there isn't one single "recommended route" given its linear nature, many users enjoy traversing the entire 12.5-mile length from Susquehanna Riverlands Park to West Nanticoke, or vice-versa. This allows for a full appreciation of the Susquehanna Warrior Trail landmarks, viewpoints, and natural features. The trail's flat terrain means the Susquehanna Warrior Trail difficulty is generally low, making it accessible for most.
Along the way, users can enjoy peaceful river views, spot diverse wildlife, and pass by the historic North Branch Canal. Benches, often placed as part of community projects, provide perfect spots to rest and take in the scenery. For those looking for a break, the town of Shickshinny offers a good spot for food, and the unique Garden Drive-In provides a nostalgic point of interest.
Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll, a family bike ride, or a scenic run, the Susquehanna Warrior Trail offers a rewarding experience. Explore the various access points and plan your visit to discover this gem in the Susquehanna Valley. With komoot, you can easily find detailed Susquehanna Warrior Trail maps and routes that cater to your preferred activity, ensuring a memorable outdoor adventure.
Tips
February 7, 2024
Cycling
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Susquehanna Warrior Trail
3
riders
41.2km
03:44
100m
100m
The Susquehanna Warrior Trail offers a delightful touring cycling experience, tracing the Susquehanna River through a landscape of lush forests and open meadows. You'll find continuous water views, plenty of shade, and opportunities to spot wildlife like herons and bald eagles. The trail's hard-packed crushed stone surface, built on a reclaimed railroad bed, makes for a smooth ride, passing historical points like the North Branch Canal.
This moderate 25.6-mile (41.2 km) route, with a modest 321 feet (98 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 43 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for families and beginners, though some sections might have slightly rougher gravel. Access is straightforward, with parking available at spots like Susquehanna Riverlands Park, which also provides additional amenities.
Beyond its scenic beauty, the Susquehanna Warrior Trail is a notable example of a successful rail-trail conversion, transforming an old Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad bed into a recreational asset. Its gentle gradient and well-maintained surface make it one of the most family-friendly Susquehanna River cycling trails, blending natural beauty with local history.
40.7km
03:12
390m
390m
This touring bicycle route offers a unique journey through the scenic Susquehanna River Valley, blending the natural beauty of the river with a fascinating historical detour. You'll cruise along the Susquehanna Warrior Trail, a multi-use path offering sweeping water views and glimpses of surrounding mountain peaks, often spotting herons or otters. The highlight, however, is the detour to Concrete City, an abandoned ghost town of robust concrete structures that provides an eerie, graffiti-covered contrast to the riverside greenery.
Expect a moderate 25.3-mile (40.7 km) ride with 1276 feet (389 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 3 hours and 12 minutes. While the main trail is mostly flat crushed stone, the sections leading to Concrete City can be unpaved and more challenging, possibly requiring you to push your bike. Access points like Susquehanna Riverlands Park are convenient, and the trail is dog-friendly, making it a great option for a day out with your leashed pet.
The Susquehanna Warrior Trail itself is built on a former railroad corridor, giving it historical significance beyond Concrete City. It's suitable for various bikes and skill levels, though the Concrete City addition elevates the difficulty slightly. You'll even pass by the Garden Drive-In, one of the few remaining drive-in movie theaters, adding another quirky point of interest to this diverse cycling adventure.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.57 km
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 10 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 22 August
26°C
13°C
82 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any specific sections of the Susquehanna Warrior Trail that are particularly scenic or popular?
While the entire 12.5-mile trail offers continuous river views, some sections are noted for specific attractions. The area near the historic North Branch Canal provides a blend of natural beauty and local history. Many visitors also enjoy the stretch passing the unique Garden Drive-In. The trail is dotted with benches, often Eagle Scout projects, offering picturesque spots to rest and take in the scenery, especially where the trail veers closer to the river.
What are the best access points and parking options for the Susquehanna Warrior Trail?
The main access points with parking are at both ends of the trail: Susquehanna Riverlands Park in Salem Township (southern end) and Canal Park in West Nanticoke (northern end). Parking is generally ample, but during peak seasons or event days, it's advisable to arrive earlier in the day to secure a spot, especially at Susquehanna Riverlands Park which also offers additional amenities.
Is the Susquehanna Warrior Trail suitable for dog walking?
Yes, the Susquehanna Warrior Trail is generally dog-friendly. Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs on the crushed-stone path. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, clean up after them, and ensure they are well-behaved around other trail users, including cyclists and runners.
What kind of wildlife can be observed along the Susquehanna Warrior Trail?
The trail offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, particularly along the river. Common sightings include various bird species such as bald eagles and herons. Otters can also occasionally be spotted in the river. The lush surroundings provide a habitat for diverse local fauna, making it a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts.
Are there any loop options or alternative routes connected to the Susquehanna Warrior Trail?
The Susquehanna Warrior Trail is primarily a linear rail trail, meaning it runs point-to-point without built-in loop options directly off the main path. However, for those looking for a shorter loop, Susquehanna Riverlands Park at the southern end features a crushed stone loop path within the park itself. For longer excursions, the trail is envisioned to eventually connect to the Kirby Park trail system, offering future extended route possibilities.
What are the trail conditions like during winter, and is it still accessible?
The Susquehanna Warrior Trail remains accessible and offers a beautiful setting for snowy treks in winter. While the crushed-stone surface is generally well-maintained, conditions can vary depending on recent snowfall and ice. Hikers and cyclists should exercise caution, wear appropriate winter footwear or tires, and be prepared for potentially slippery sections. It's a quieter time to visit, offering a peaceful experience.
Are there any specific activities or amenities for children along the trail?
The trail's flat, wide, crushed-stone surface makes it very family-friendly for walking, running, and cycling with children. At the southern end, Susquehanna Riverlands Park offers additional amenities specifically for families, including picnic tables and playgrounds, making it an ideal starting or ending point for those with kids.
Where can I find food or refreshments near the Susquehanna Warrior Trail?
For those looking for a break or a meal, the town of Shickshinny, which the trail passes near, offers options for food. While specific cafes or pubs directly on the trail are limited, nearby towns like Berwick and Nanticoke also provide a wider selection of restaurants and cafes within a short drive from various access points.
What is the historical significance of the Susquehanna Warrior Trail?
The Susquehanna Warrior Trail was established on a reclaimed railroad corridor, specifically the old Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad bed. Its construction began in 2005 and it officially opened in 2007. The name "Warrior Trail" likely alludes to the indigenous history of the Susquehanna region, historically inhabited by the Susquehannock people, a Native American tribe whose presence dates back centuries.
How does the Susquehanna Warrior Trail compare to other local trails in terms of difficulty and experience?
The Susquehanna Warrior Trail is known for its relatively low difficulty, featuring a flat, hard-packed crushed-stone surface. This makes it highly accessible for a wide range of users, including beginners, families, and those seeking a gentle outdoor experience. Compared to many other trails in the region that might involve significant elevation changes or rugged terrain, the Susquehanna Warrior Trail offers a consistently smooth and easy-going path, ideal for leisurely activities and scenic enjoyment.