The best road cycling routes in Lancaster County

Lancaster County offers a wide selection of over 300 road cycling routes. These include 89 easy, 214 moderate, and 9 difficult routes, ensuring options for every skill level.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain. Many routes feature gently rolling farmlands and quiet back roads, ideal for relaxed rides. However, more challenging hilly sections with significant climbs can be found, particularly south of Strasburg and Route 741, catering to experienced riders.

Absolutely. Many routes offer stunning views of the Susquehanna River, especially along trails like the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail. You can also visit the White Cliffs of Conoy or enjoy panoramic vistas from Chickies Rock County Park. The region also boasts lush wooded areas and peaceful creeks.

Yes, Lancaster County is renowned for its historic covered bridges, and many road cycling routes are designed to showcase these charming structures. For example, the Pinetown Amish Covered Bridge – Keller's Covered Bridge loop from Welsh Mountain Nature Preserve takes you past several. You can also find routes that include Hunsecker's Mill Covered Bridge.

Spring and fall are generally considered the best times for road cycling in Lancaster County, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. The fall foliage is particularly stunning. While summer can be warm, early mornings or late afternoons are often comfortable. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions can vary, so checking local weather is advisable.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families, especially those on dedicated rail-trails which often have flatter, paved surfaces and less traffic. The Northwest Lancaster County River Trail is a great option, offering mostly paved sections along the river. Many of the quiet back roads through Amish country also provide a safe and scenic environment for family rides.

Lancaster County has numerous loop routes. A popular moderate option is the White Cliffs of Conoy – Chickies Rock County Park loop from Columbia. For a more challenging ride, consider the Keller's Covered Bridge – Pinetown Amish Covered Bridge loop from Manheim Township, which covers over 60 miles through rolling farmlands.

Parking is generally available at trailheads for popular rail-trails like the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail and the Enola Low Grade Trail. Many towns and parks also offer public parking facilities that can serve as starting points for road cycling adventures. Specific parking details often vary by route, so it's best to check individual route descriptions.

Lancaster County has several bike-friendly communities where you can find cafes and eateries. Towns like Lititz, Ephrata, and Columbia, often situated along or near popular cycling routes, offer various dining options. You'll also find roadside stands selling local goods, especially when cycling through the Amish countryside.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the unique experience of riding through the picturesque Amish countryside, the historic covered bridges, and the scenic views along the Susquehanna River. The variety of terrain, from gentle rolls to challenging climbs, is also a highlight.

While popular rail-trails can see more activity, many of Lancaster County's extensive network of quiet back roads through farmlands offer a more secluded cycling experience. Exploring routes that venture slightly off the main attractions can lead to peaceful rides with fewer people.

Lancaster City is bike-friendly and offers a bike-share program, which can be a starting point for exploring routes accessible from the city. While direct public transport access to every trailhead might be limited, some routes pass through towns with bus services. Planning your route in conjunction with local transport schedules is recommended.