The best cycling routes around Wilkes-Barre

There are currently 7 touring cycling routes available around Wilkes-Barre on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.

The touring cycling routes in Wilkes-Barre offer a diverse landscape. You'll find many routes along the Susquehanna River, featuring flat, paved paths like the Luzerne County Levee and Rail Trail Loop. Other routes venture into the foothills of the Pocono Mountains, providing moderate elevation changes and forested sections, such as the Frances Slocum State Park loop.

Yes, Wilkes-Barre offers several easy and family-friendly cycling options. The Luzerne County Levee and Rail Trail Loop is an excellent choice, being mostly paved and offering scenic river views without significant climbs. It's suitable for all fitness levels and provides a pleasant experience for families.

Yes, the region is known for its repurposed rail trails. The Susquehanna Warrior Trail is a prominent example, following the Susquehanna River and offering both scenic beauty and historical points of interest. Portions of the extensive D&L Trail also extend into the Poconos near Wilkes-Barre, providing varied terrain from paved to rugged sections.

Many routes offer picturesque views of the Susquehanna River. The Luzerne County Levee and Rail Trail Loop provides continuous river vistas. You can also cycle through Frances Slocum State Park, which features the beautiful Frances Slocum Lake. For unique geological formations and waterfalls, consider a route near the Seven Tubs Recreation Area.

Yes, there are several loop routes available for touring cyclists. The Two Rivers loop is a popular moderate option that traces the Lackawanna River and part of the Luzerne County Rail Trail. Another is the Frances Slocum State Park loop, which circles the lake within the park.

The touring cycling routes around Wilkes-Barre vary in length, catering to different preferences. You'll find routes ranging from shorter loops around 8 miles, like the Frances Slocum State Park loop, to longer trails over 25 miles, such as the Susquehanna Warrior Trail. The average distance for routes in this guide is approximately 20 miles (32 km).

While many routes are moderate, some offer more significant elevation changes. For example, the Seven Tubs Recreation Area loop from Laurel Run features over 400 meters of elevation gain, providing a more demanding ride through forested terrain. The D&L Trail also has rugged sections that can appeal to those seeking a greater challenge.

The best time for touring cycling in Wilkes-Barre is typically from spring through fall. Spring offers lush greenery, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage, especially in the Pocono Mountain foothills. Summers are generally pleasant, though it's always wise to check local weather forecasts. Some trails may be accessible in winter, but conditions can vary greatly with snow and ice.

Many popular trails in Wilkes-Barre offer convenient access points with parking. For instance, the Luzerne County Levee Trail, which is part of the Luzerne County Levee and Rail Trail Loop, has numerous access points, including Kirby Park in Wilkes-Barre. State parks like Frances Slocum State Park also provide designated parking areas for trail users.

Touring cyclists often praise the region's diverse scenery, particularly the tranquil river views along the Susquehanna and the natural beauty of the Pocono Mountain foothills. The variety of trails, from easy paved paths to more challenging routes, is also frequently highlighted, allowing cyclists of all abilities to find suitable options. The presence of well-maintained rail trails and state parks adds to the appeal.