The best road cycling routes in Lycoming County

This easy road cycling loop from South Williamsport offers a pleasant ride along well-paved surfaces, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll pedal for 17.0 miles (27.3 km) with minimal elevation gain, just 281 feet (86 metres), making it suitable for nearly any fitness level. Expect scenic riverside views, especially as you ride near the West Branch Susquehanna River, providing a refreshing escape without demanding climbs.

Planning your visit is straightforward; no special permits are needed for this route. Parking is typically available in South Williamsport, and starting your ride in the morning can help you enjoy cooler temperatures and less traffic. This loop is a great option for a quick spin, taking approximately 1 hour and 33 minutes to complete.

The South Williamsport area is rich in natural beauty, with reforested hills and connections to other local trails like the Susquehanna River Walk and Timber Trail. This particular loop provides a taste of the region's accessible road cycling, offering a chance to enjoy the outdoors and perhaps spot some local wildlife along the river without venturing into more challenging terrain.

The Lycoming Creek Bikeway loop from Williamsport offers a delightful road cycling experience, guiding you through a mix of open farmlands, residential areas, and scenic stretches along the Lycoming Creek. You'll enjoy the smooth, paved surfaces as you pass fields of corn and grasses, with the highlight being the multiple crossings of the winding creek, including over a charming 1901 vintage steel bridge. The route provides a varied perspective on the local landscape, connecting community parks and offering a pleasant journey for any cyclist.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with several access points and parking options available along the route. Heshbon Park is a particularly good choice, providing amenities like restrooms and picnic tables. While much of the route follows a dedicated bikeway, be aware that the full 25.9-mile (41.6 km) loop integrates local roads, especially at its southern end, so you'll transition between trail and road sections. This easy ride is suitable for all skill levels and can be completed in about 1 hour and 51 minutes.

This popular Lycoming Creek Bikeway loop is classified as an easy road ride, featuring a gentle 942 feet (287 metres) of elevation gain over its distance. It follows a historic corridor once used by Native Americans as the Lagahani Trail and later by the Penn Central Railroad, adding a layer of heritage to your ride. The trail's connection to Williamsport's urban bikeway system and its diverse scenery make it a notable option for those seeking beginner road cycling trails near Williamsport.

This road bike loop from Muncy, PA, offers a delightful spin through the Susquehanna River Valley, showcasing the region's rural charm. You'll roll through open farmlands, alongside scenic waterways like the Susquehanna River, and past picturesque Amish farms. The route provides a consistent, moderate challenge with its rolling hills and varied terrain, making it a great option for those who enjoy a bit of climbing with their views.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the loop begins and ends in Muncy, PA. While specific parking isn't detailed, you'll find public parking available in town. There are no special permits or fees required for this road cycling route. Spring, summer, and fall are generally the best seasons to enjoy the scenic beauty and comfortable riding conditions, but always check the forecast before you go.

This particular Muncy road cycling route is part of the broader Lycoming County network, known for its diverse cycling terrain and historical heritage. The area is nestled within the Allegheny Mountains, which explains the route's 1181 feet (360 metres) of elevation gain over 24.3 miles (39.1 km), typically completed in about 1 hour and 45 minutes. It's a solid choice for a moderate workout with plenty of scenic overlooks towards areas like Williamsport and Lewisburg.

The Lycoming Creek Bikeway loop from Faxon offers a diverse road cycling experience, combining the smooth, paved surface of a rail-trail with the rolling terrain of local roads. You'll pedal alongside the Lycoming Creek, crossing it on historic railroad bridges, and pass through a pleasant mix of woodlots, open farm fields, and quiet residential areas. It's a great way to see the varied landscapes of the region while enjoying a good workout.

This moderate route covers 41.6 miles (67.0 km) and includes 1850 feet (564 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 59 minutes to complete. For planning your ride, Heshbon Park along the bikeway provides useful amenities like restrooms and a drinking fountain. The route is best enjoyed during the warmer months, from spring through fall, when the scenery is vibrant and the roads are clear.

Historically, the Lycoming Creek Bikeway follows the path of the former Penn Central Railroad corridor, which itself was built along the ancient Native American Lagahani Trail. This rich history adds a unique layer to your ride, connecting you to centuries of travel through central Pennsylvania. It's a popular cycling route in Williamsport PA, known for its accessibility and the blend of dedicated trail and road riding.