Howard Tunnel – Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail loop from Brillhart

Bike touring routes & trails

United States

Pennsylvania

York County

Howard Tunnel – Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail loop from Brillhart

Hard

3.4

(7)

riders

Howard Tunnel – Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail loop from Brillhart

07:13

113km

610m

Cycling

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: October 8, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Torrey C Brown Rail Trail

Waypoints

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

2.95 km

Howard Tunnel

Highlight • Structure

For its time, constructing a tunnel through solid rock was a remarkable engineering feat. The brick-lined tunnel stretches for an impressive 275 feet (ca. 84 meters). Trains carrying everything from …

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12.5 km

Beautiful rail trail section

Highlight • Trail

This is a particularly peaceful section of the Heritage Rail Trail. Fields, farms and the presence of the old railway line accompany you as you cycle along.

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25.7 km

New Freedom Pennsylvania

Highlight • Monument

34.0 km

Beetree Run

Lake

40.7 km

Gnome Garden on the NCR Trail

Highlight • Structure

Just off the trail is a pretty outrageous gnome garden. The art installation is really well made and a must-see if you are on the trail! There is a drink and snack station that uses the honor system.

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41.6 km

Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail is a 20-mile trail that follows the former Northern Central Railway and stretches from Northern Baltimore to the Pennsylvania state line. It's a great trail for hikers, joggers, cyclists, and horseback riders.

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47.9 km

Monkton Train Station

Highlight • Rest Area

Old scenic railway station on the NCR Trail (AKA Torrey C Brown Rail Trail). Bathrooms, a general store, a cafe, and other amenities in Monkton. Great for pit stops for the rail trail or bike touring in the area.

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52.1 km

Glencoe Road Bridge Over Gunpowder Falls

Highlight • Bridge

If you're cycling in the area or on the Torrey C. Brown Trail, you'll likely pass by this spot where there's a metal deck bridge over the Gunpowder Falls. Although …

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56.9 km

Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

This section of the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail passes the town of Phoenix. The multi-use gravel trail leads through green nature, woodlands, and offers great views of the nearby Gunpowder Falls River.

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