The best road cycling routes around New Market

Road cycling routes in the New Market area, particularly around Harrisburg, PA, are characterized by a mix of urban greenbelts, riverfront paths, and connectors between various parks. The terrain generally features gentle gradients and rolling hills. Some longer routes, like the City Island – Children's Lake loop, include more significant elevation changes, offering diverse landscapes for cyclists.

There are over 35 road cycling routes available around New Market, catering to various skill levels. This includes 11 easy routes, 23 moderate routes, and a few more challenging options for experienced cyclists.

Yes, there are several easy routes. A popular choice is the Capital Area Greenbelt – Riverfront Park loop from Paxtang, which is an easy 19.9-mile (31.9 km) trail following established greenbelt paths with river views. Another easy option is the Riverfront Park – Gravel on the Greenbelt loop from Paxtang, covering about 10.5 miles (17 km).

Many routes offer scenic views along the Susquehanna River and through various parks. You can explore areas like Capital Area Greenbelt, Wildwood Park Meadow, and City Island. The Fort Hunter Mansion and Park – Wildwood Park loop connects multiple parks, providing varied scenery through natural areas and historical sites.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the Capital Area Greenbelt – Riverfront Park loop from Paxtang and the Fort Hunter Mansion and Park – Wildwood Park loop are popular circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point.

The road cycling routes around New Market are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained greenbelt paths, the scenic riverfront views, and the variety of routes that connect different parks and natural areas, making it suitable for different ability levels.

The routes vary significantly in length. You can find shorter loops around 10-12 miles (16-19 km), such as the Gravel on the Greenbelt – Reservoir Park loop. Longer, more challenging routes, like the City Island – Children's Lake loop, can extend over 70 miles (114 km).

Yes, some routes are accessible via public transport. For instance, the Fort Hunter Mansion and Park – Wildwood Park loop and the City Island – Children's Lake loop both start from the Harrisburg Transportation Center, which is a key hub for public transit.

Many of the easy and moderate routes, especially those along the Capital Area Greenbelt and riverfront paths, are suitable for families. These paths are generally well-maintained and offer a safe environment away from heavy traffic. The Capital Area Greenbelt – Riverfront Park loop is a great option for a family outing.

Given the routes often pass through urban greenbelts and connect to parks and city areas, you will find various cafes, restaurants, and refreshment stops, particularly in Harrisburg and surrounding towns. Routes that pass through or near City Island or the downtown areas offer convenient access to amenities.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in the New Market area. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while fall provides vibrant foliage. Summers are warm, but riverfront paths often offer a refreshing breeze. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions can be variable with colder temperatures and potential for snow or ice.

Yes, for advanced cyclists seeking a challenge, the City Island – Children's Lake loop from Harrisburg Transportation Center is a difficult 70.9-mile (114.0 km) trail with significant elevation gain, often taking over 5 hours to complete. This route provides a more demanding experience through diverse landscapes.