The best road cycling routes around Arcadia University

There are over 50 road cycling routes around Arcadia University, offering a diverse network of paths. These include 9 easy routes, 44 moderate routes, and 4 more challenging options, catering to various skill levels.

The region offers a rich variety of landscapes for road cyclists. You'll find urban parkways, historic paths, and rural roads. Routes wind along rivers like the Schuylkill, through wooded areas, open fields, and wetlands, with options ranging from flat riverbanks to rolling hills in the countryside.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The Pennypack Trail – Pennypack Trail loop from Jenkintown-Wyncote, for instance, offers a peaceful ride along Pennypack Creek through wooded areas and open fields, featuring paved and hard-packed gravel surfaces. The flat sections of the Schuylkill River Trail are also excellent for family outings.

Many routes offer scenic views and points of interest. Along the Schuylkill River Trail, you can enjoy views of the Schuylkill Banks, Boathouse Row, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Other notable highlights include the Ten Box, the Teedyuscung Statue, and the natural beauty of Devil's Pool within Wissahickon Valley Park.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. Popular circular routes include the Wissahickon Creek – View from Sullivan's Bridge loop from Oreland, the Wissahickon Waterfowl Preserve – Loch Alsh Reservoir loop from Oreland, and the Penrose Walk Wetland – Wissahickon Waterfowl Preserve loop from Jenkintown-Wyncote, all offering varied terrain and scenic views.

The region is generally pleasant for road cycling from spring through fall. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn offers stunning foliage, particularly along routes like the Pennypack Trail or in Bucks County. Summer is also popular, though riders may prefer shaded paths like Forbidden Drive in Wissahickon Valley Park during warmer days.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the area offers routes with rolling hills and more elevation. Fort Washington State Park, a short drive from campus, provides hillier paths. Additionally, some routes extending into Bucks County can include significant ascents and descents, offering varied terrain for advanced cyclists.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from flat river trails to rolling hills, and the scenic beauty of the wooded areas and historic paths. The well-maintained surfaces and variety of route lengths are also frequently highlighted.

Arcadia University is located in Montgomery County, which is part of a well-connected region. Many trails, such as sections of the Schuylkill River Trail and Pennypack Trail, are accessible via public transport connections, particularly from nearby urban centers. Checking local SEPTA schedules for bus or regional rail lines that serve trailheads is recommended.

Parking is generally available at various access points for the major trails. For instance, the Schuylkill River Trail has numerous parking lots along its length. Wissahickon Valley Park and Valley Forge National Historical Park also offer designated parking areas. For specific routes, checking the trailhead information on komoot tours will provide details on parking availability.

Yes, the Schuylkill River Trail is an extensive multi-use trail stretching over 75 miles, offering a great option for longer rides. Parts of it are also integrated into the East Coast Greenway, a 3,000-mile network, allowing for very long-distance cycling. Routes extending into Bucks County also provide opportunities for extended rides through rural landscapes.

For routes that minimize city traffic, consider the Five Points – Sandy Hill loop from Oreland, which takes you through more suburban and rural settings. Forbidden Drive within Wissahickon Valley Park offers a serene, shaded path away from cars, though it can be busy with other users. The rural roads of Bucks County also provide lightly traveled options.