The best road cycling routes in Lackawanna County

Lackawanna County offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 60 options available for exploration. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate to difficult, ensuring there's a suitable ride for most cyclists.

The terrain in Lackawanna County is diverse, featuring river valleys, dense forests, and rolling hills. You'll encounter a mix of dedicated multi-use paths, like sections of the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, and traditional road cycling loops. Surfaces vary from well-paved roads in urban areas to some unpaved segments in more rural settings, offering both gentle gradients and challenging climbs.

Yes, Lackawanna County has several routes suitable for beginners or families. While many routes are moderate, there are 7 routes classified as easy. For a generally accessible experience, sections of the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail offer paved paths, such as the 3.5-mile Scranton Riverwalk, which are ideal for a relaxed ride.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Lackawanna County offers 5 difficult routes with significant elevation gains. One such route is the Lackawanna River – Scranton loop from Nay Aug Park, which features over 900 meters of elevation gain over its 63 km distance. Another demanding option is the View of the Lackawanna River – Lackawanna Mountain loop from Holiday Inn Express & Suites, also with over 900 meters of climbing.

Many routes in Lackawanna County offer scenic views and pass by notable natural features. You can explore areas like the Choke Creek Falls, or ride through the Dick & Nancy Eales Preserve at Moosic Mountain and the Gateway Preserve. The Lackawanna River itself is a central feature, with many routes following its course, offering picturesque river views.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Lackawanna County are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the popular Hammonds-Keeley Preserve loop from Larsen Lake, the Scranton loop from Electric City Trolley Station, and the Scranton loop from PNC Field, all providing varied scenic experiences.

The road cycling experience in Lackawanna County is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, which includes both river valleys and challenging hills, and the blend of dedicated trails and scenic road loops that cater to different preferences.

The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, a key cycling resource, connects over 30 communities, and some sections are accessible via public transport. For specific information on public transportation options to various trailheads, it's advisable to check local transit schedules or resources like VisitNEPA's Lackawanna River Heritage Trail page.

The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail (LRHT) is a 70-mile multi-use path with sections suitable for road cycling. Notably, the 3.5-mile Scranton Riverwalk offers a paved surface ideal for road bikes. Other sections may be crushed stone or earthen, so checking the specific segment's surface is recommended for road cyclists.

Generally, permits are not required for casual road biking on public trails and roads in Lackawanna County. However, it's always a good practice to check for any specific regulations or events, especially for organized rides or within certain park areas like Lackawanna State Park, which might have different rules for mountain biking trails.

Many routes, especially those starting or passing through Scranton or other communities, offer access to amenities. For instance, the Buttermilk Falls – Lackawanna River loop from Electric City Trolley Station and the Scranton loop from South Side are good options for finding cafes, restaurants, and other services along your ride.

The best time for road cycling in Lackawanna County is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and the scenery is vibrant. Fall, in particular, offers stunning foliage. While winter cycling is possible, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially on less-maintained roads or trails.