Pennsylvania's Top 10 Bike-Friendly Towns
Greetings, fellow cycling aficionados! As a proud Pennsylvanian and devoted cyclist, I’m excited to share with you our guide to the top 10 bike-friendly towns in my home state. Pennsylvania isn’t just known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes; it’s also a treasure trove for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for challenging mountain trails or scenic urban rides, this state has it all. So, saddle up and join me as we pedal through Pennsylvania’s most bike-friendly towns!
Philadelphia
Philadelphia skyline in 2019 with recreational boardwalk along the Schuylkill River, known as the Schuylkill Banks.
Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, is a bustling metropolis that offers an impressive array of biking opportunities. The Schuylkill River Trail is undoubtedly the crown jewel for cyclists. Stretching over 30 miles, this multi-use path runs along the river, offering magnificent views of the city skyline and access to landmarks like the Philadelphia Zoo and Boathouse Row. It’s perfect for both leisurely rides and vigorous workouts.
Fairmount Park, one of the largest urban park systems in the country, provides a network of trails that cater to all levels. You can enjoy a tranquil ride through wooded areas or explore the park’s historic sites. The Wissahickon Valley Park section is particularly popular for its rugged terrain and scenic beauty.
Philadelphia’s bike-sharing program, Indego, has expanded significantly, making it easier than ever to rent a bike and explore the city’s many bike lanes and paths. The bike lanes along Market Street and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway are great for navigating through downtown. The Philadelphia Bike Expo, held annually, is a must-attend event for cycling enthusiasts. It features the latest in bike technology, gear, and accessories, plus workshops and demonstrations from industry experts.
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, known for its dramatic hills and historic bridges, has transformed into a bike-friendly haven. The Three Rivers Heritage Trail is a standout feature of Pittsburgh’s biking scene. This trail runs along the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, providing a scenic route that highlights the city’s beautiful waterfront and iconic skyline. It’s also connected to several parks and cultural landmarks.
The Eliza Furnace Trail offers a more urban experience, linking the South Side to the Strip District. This trail not only provides a practical commuting route but also showcases Pittsburgh’s industrial past with remnants of old furnaces and steel mills along the way. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the North Park and South Park trails offer a range of off-road options, including technical singletracks and challenging climbs.
Bike Share Pittsburgh Inc, also known as POGOH, is all about making getting around Pittsburgh fun and easy with their fantastic bikeshare system. They’re dedicated to connecting the city, engaging with the community, and promoting inclusivity, all while helping Pittsburgh become a greener and healthier place to live.
Lancaster
Lancaster, often associated with its picturesque Amish farmland, is also a cycling gem. The Lancaster County Central Park Trails offer a serene escape from urban life. The trails here meander through woodlands, meadows, and alongside streams, providing a peaceful riding experience. The park’s trails are well-maintained and suitable for all skill levels.
The Amtrak Trail, another notable route, runs parallel to the historic railroad tracks and provides a flat, scenic ride that’s ideal for family outings or a relaxing day of biking. This trail also connects to other local paths, making it easy to extend your ride. Lancaster’s bike-friendly ethos extends to its community, with many local businesses and cafes offering bike parking and amenities for cyclists.
The Lancaster Bicycle Club is a fantastic resource for local cyclists. They organize regular group rides, cycling events, and social gatherings, making it easy to connect with other cycling enthusiasts.
State College
Park gate in campus of Pennsylvania State University in summer sunny day, State College, Pennsylvania.
State College, home to Penn State University, offers an array of biking opportunities for all levels. The university’s campus features a well-developed network of trails that are perfect for both commuting and recreational rides. These trails connect various parts of the campus and nearby neighborhoods, providing a convenient and scenic route for students and locals.
If you seek more adventure, Rothrock State Forest is a must-visit. The forest boasts a range of mountain biking trails that cater to different skill levels, from beginner-friendly paths to technical singletracks. The diverse terrain and scenic beauty make Rothrock a popular destination for mountain bikers.
The Bicycle Shop in State College is a local favorite for bike gear and repair. The knowledgeable staff can provide valuable insights into the best local trails and routes, ensuring you have everything you need for your ride.
Bethlehem
Bethlehem, with its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, is also a prime location for cycling. The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor is a highlight, offering a scenic route that follows the historic Delaware and Lehigh Canals. This multi-use trail is ideal for a leisurely ride, with beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
The South Bethlehem Greenway provides an urban cycling experience, connecting different parts of the city through dedicated bike lanes and paths. This trail allows you to explore Bethlehem’s neighborhoods and historic sites while enjoying a safe and enjoyable ride.
Grab a FREE bike and lock from Bike Bethlehem—just show your ID and start exploring the city, or run errands, or just enjoy the outdoors!
Allentown
Allentown offers a diverse range of biking experiences, from scenic park trails to challenging mountain routes. The Lehigh Parkway Trails are a popular choice, providing a picturesque ride through the park with views of the Lehigh River. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for all levels, perfect for a relaxing ride or a brisk workout.
For a more adventurous ride, head to Trexler Nature Preserve. The preserve features a network of mountain biking trails with varying levels of difficulty. The rugged terrain and natural beauty make it a favorite among mountain biking enthusiasts.
The Lehigh Valley Cycling Club is an active group that organizes regular rides, events, and social gatherings. Joining the club is a great way to meet other local cyclists and discover new routes in the area.
Harrisburg
Harrisburg, the state capital, has developed a robust network of bike paths that cater to cyclists of all types. The Capital Area Greenbelt is a highlight, offering a scenic loop around the city that combines urban and natural environments. This trail provides a great way to explore Harrisburg’s parks, neighborhoods, and historic sites.
The Susquehanna River Trail runs along the riverbank, providing stunning views of the water and the city skyline. This trail is perfect for a leisurely ride, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings.
The Harrisburg Bicycling Club brings together cyclists of all levels for exciting group rides and events throughout the year. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual rider, it's a great way to explore new routes and connect with fellow cycling enthusiasts in the Harrisburg area.
Scranton
Scranton, known for its industrial history and as the setting for "The Office," is also a great place for cycling. The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail stretches over 70 miles and provides a scenic ride alongside the river, with beautiful views and historical markers that highlight the area’s past. This trail is well-maintained and suitable for riders of all levels.
Electric City Trails is Scranton's first-ever urban trails project, designed to get both locals and visitors walking and biking around town. There are two fun routes: one for strolling past historic sites and scenic parks, and another for biking with future signage to guide you through a six-mile loop connecting key spots like Nay Aug Park and the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail.
York
View of Main Street in Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania- a borough in York.
York, with its charming small-town atmosphere, is a fantastic destination for cycling. The Heritage Rail Trail County Park is a standout feature, stretching into Maryland and offering a long, flat route that’s perfect for leisurely rides. The trail provides beautiful views of the countryside and plenty of opportunities for spotting local wildlife.
The York County Rail Trail is another excellent option, providing a scenic ride with views of historic sites and picturesque landscapes. This trail is ideal for families and casual riders looking to enjoy a relaxing day on the bike.
York Bicycling is an active organization that hosts community rides and social events. Their regular rides are a great way to connect with other cyclists and explore new routes in the York area.
Doylestown
Doylestown, with its quaint charm and historical significance, has developed an impressive network of bike paths. The Doylestown Bike & Hike Network explores over 16 miles of trails, paths, and shared roadways. These scenic routes connect you to the heart of downtown, charming neighborhoods, and cool spots like Aldie Mansion, the County Theatre, Edison Village Park, Fonthill Museum, and the James A. Michener Museum.
The Bucks County Trails Program offers biking adventures across 350 miles of dedicated bike paths and shared-use trails. This expansive network weaves through scenic countryside, charming towns, and historic landmarks, with new routes and greenways constantly being developed. So gear up and explore Bucks County's biking paradise!
Final Thoughts
Pennsylvania’s diverse landscapes and rich history make it a fantastic state for cycling, whether you’re into urban rides, scenic trails, or rugged mountain biking. Each of these towns offers unique features and local gems that make them stand out on the biking map. So, grab your bike, hit the road, and discover the many biking adventures that Pennsylvania has to offer. Happy cycling!
