Pennsy Greenway and Erie Lackawanna Trail Loop

The loop is approximately 30.7 kilometers (19 miles) long. For a touring bicycle, it typically takes around 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete, though this can vary based on your pace and stops.

Yes, the Pennsy Greenway and Erie Lackawanna Trail Loop is rated as easy and is very suitable for beginners and families. Both trails are rail-trails, offering remarkably flat and straight terrain with minimal grades, making for a comfortable riding experience for all skill levels.

The loop is predominantly paved with asphalt, providing a smooth riding surface ideal for touring bikes. As former railroad corridors, the trails are flat and straight. While generally well-maintained, some sections, particularly on the Erie Lackawanna Trail, might have minor bumpy patches at surface seams.

There are numerous trailheads with parking available along both the Pennsy Greenway and the Erie Lackawanna Trail. These are typically found in the communities the trails pass through, offering convenient access points.

The loop offers diverse scenery, traversing urban, suburban, and rural landscapes. You'll pass by parks, schools, and alongside the Little Calumet River. Some sections are shaded by tall trees, while others are more open, revealing wildflowers in spring and summer. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including river otters.

Yes, the route passes by several points of interest. You might consider stopping at the New Oberpfalz Brewery. The Calumet Avenue Pedestrian Bridge is also a notable feature along the way.

Spring and summer are excellent times to cycle the loop, as you can enjoy the wildflowers and lush greenery. The trails are accessible year-round, but conditions may vary with weather. Fall offers pleasant temperatures and autumn foliage.

Yes, the Erie Lackawanna Trail is part of National Bike Route #35 and the American Discovery Trail. It also connects to other regional trails like the Monon Trail, Oak Savannah Trail, and the Little Calumet River Levee Trail. The Pennsy Greenway is a key link in the Great American Rail-Trail.

Yes, both the Pennsy Greenway and Erie Lackawanna Trail are generally dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all trail users.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and use the Pennsy Greenway or the Erie Lackawanna Trail. They are publicly accessible multi-use paths.

Yes, amenities such as picnic tables, benches, and occasionally restrooms and water fountains are provided at various points along both trails, particularly near trailheads and parks in the communities they pass through.