1.
Delaware Canal State Park – Laubach Island loop from Easton
45.2km
03:23
110m
110m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The best cycling routes around Old Orchard
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 1, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling around Old Orchard, you know how overwhelming the options can be. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it. That's why we've put in the miles. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, so we can offer you a curated shortlist of the best touring bike trails Old Orchard has to offer, saving you all the guesswork.
Touring cycling in this region is defined by routes that follow canals, wind through preserves, and hug rivers. You'll find a pleasant mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, with moderate elevation changes that keep things interesting without being overly demanding. It's a landscape characterized by riverine environments and protected parklands, offering a range from easy paths to more moderate challenges.
If you only do one route, we'd point you straight to the Delaware Canal State Park – Laubach Island loop from Easton. At 28.1 miles (45.2 km) with moderate difficulty, it's the most popular touring cycling route for a reason, offering a fantastic journey through the scenic Delaware Canal State Park. For something a bit easier, especially if you're looking for family friendly bike trails Old Orchard offers, the Two Rivers Trailway — Palmer loop from Old Orchard is a great choice at 12.3 miles (19.8 km). It’s an easy ride that still gives you a real feel for the area. With over 250 touring cyclists already exploring with komoot, you're in good company.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware Canal State Park – Laubach Island loop from Easton | 45.2 km | 110 m | Moderate |
| Binney and Smith Preserve loop from Palmer Township | 18.8 km | 180 m | Moderate |
| Two Rivers Trailway — Palmer loop from Old Orchard | 19.8 km | 110 m | Easy |
| Delaware Canal State Park – Glendon Hill Bridge loop from Bethlehem Township | 41.7 km | 190 m | Moderate |
| Delaware Canal State Park – Two Rivers Trailway — Palmer loop from Easton | 30.8 km | 120 m | Easy |
| Glendon Hill Bridge – Delaware Canal State Park loop from Old Orchard | 16.0 km | 50 m | Easy |
| 9/11 National Memorial Trail – 9/11 National Memorial Trail loop from Palmer Township | 41.7 km | 250 m | Moderate |
| Fairview Park – Billy's Downtown Diner loop from Glendon | 51.8 km | 280 m | Moderate |
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2.
Binney and Smith Preserve loop from Palmer Township
18.8km
01:11
180m
180m
If you're looking for a relaxed touring cycling route with a mix of nature and art, the Binney and Smith Preserve loop from Palmer Township is a great pick. This moderate 11.7-mile (18.8 km) ride takes you along the perimeter of the preserve, offering picturesque views of the Bushkill Creek and a forested, streamside environment. You'll also encounter unique sculptures along the Karl Stirner Arts Trail, adding an unexpected cultural dimension to your journey.
This accessible route, with just 585 feet (178 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 10 minutes, making it ideal for a leisurely spin. The trail is mostly paved and flat, suitable for touring cyclists of all abilities. Parking is available at various points along the interconnected Palmer Township Recreation Trail, which forms part of this loop.
The Binney and Smith Preserve itself is a vital wildlife habitat, acting as a floodplain and riparian buffer to the Bushkill Creek. Cycling its perimeter allows you to appreciate this natural setting, home to diverse plant life and species like blue herons and bald eagles. The trail system is part of a larger network, offering many miles of path for extended exploration in Northampton County, Pennsylvania.
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3.
Two Rivers Trailway — Palmer loop from Old Orchard
19.8km
01:09
110m
110m
The Two Rivers Trailway — Palmer loop from Old Orchard offers a delightful touring bicycle experience, winding through a mix of landscaped yards, quiet farmland, and serene woodlands. This easy 12.3-mile (19.8 km) route, with a gentle 372 feet (113 metres) of elevation gain, is mostly flat and paved, making it ideal for a relaxed ride. You'll enjoy scenic views, including a bluff overlooking the Delaware River and the picturesque Chain Dam overlook where the Lehigh River comes into view.
Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail is a well-maintained community asset, popular with cyclists, runners, and walkers. While generally traffic-free, always be mindful of other users. The route is easily accessible from the Old Orchard area, and its gentle grade means you can comfortably complete it in about 1 hour and 9 minutes. It's a great option for an easy bike ride any time of year, though the river views are particularly striking when the trees are bare.
This section of the Two Rivers Trailway is part of an extensive 30-mile system, connecting to other notable paths like the D&L Trail and the Easton Canal path, allowing for longer adventures if you wish. Historically, the corridor was used by the Lehigh Canal and various railroads, and you can still spot remnants of old stonework buildings along the way. The trail also features a 350-foot bridge spanning the Lehigh River, adding to its unique character.
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4.
Delaware Canal State Park – Glendon Hill Bridge loop from Bethlehem Township
41.7km
02:52
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.
Delaware Canal State Park – Two Rivers Trailway — Palmer loop from Easton
30.8km
01:47
120m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6.
Glendon Hill Bridge – Delaware Canal State Park loop from Old Orchard
16.0km
00:55
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7.
9/11 National Memorial Trail – 9/11 National Memorial Trail loop from Palmer Township
41.7km
02:32
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8.
Fairview Park – Billy's Downtown Diner loop from Glendon
51.8km
03:35
280m
280m
The Fairview Park – Billy's Downtown Diner loop from Glendon offers a delightful touring cycling experience through the varied landscapes of Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley. You'll pedal through a mix of rolling hills, woodlands, and open meadows, often alongside the scenic Delaware River, possibly incorporating sections of the historic Delaware Canal towpath. This moderate 32.2-mile (51.8 km) route, with its 925 feet (282 metres) of elevation gain, provides a rewarding journey that typically takes about 3 hours and 34 minutes to complete.
To plan your ride, consider starting from Glendon, which provides good access to the regional trail network. Fairview Park in Palmer Township is integrated into a larger bike path system, making it a convenient point along the route. While specific parking details for this exact loop aren't highlighted, the D&L Trail and other local paths generally offer accessible entry points. Aim for a spring or fall ride to enjoy comfortable temperatures and vibrant natural surroundings, and be sure to factor in a stop at Billy's Downtown Diner for a well-deserved meal.
This route taps into the rich history of the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, utilizing parts of the 165-mile D&L Trail. The Delaware Canal State Park towpath, a key feature of this corridor, offers a mostly flat and picturesque ride along the Delaware River. The presence of Billy's Downtown Diner, an award-winning local eatery, adds a unique culinary highlight, making this loop a popular choice for cyclists seeking both natural beauty and a great dining experience in the Easton area.
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Tips from the Community
mtm05005
February 26, 2024, Two Rivers Trailway — Palmer
The Palmer section of the Two Rivers Trailway is a flat, mostly paved rail trail. While the trail is completely traffic free, it is also popular with runners and walkers, so it is important to be aware of other users.
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Lisa
January 29, 2024, Ruins of pottery building
This is all that's left of the stonework building that was once the pottery for Moravian settlers. The building later served as a cloth-making and weaving workshop, and as housing too.
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Tyler Sanders
January 16, 2024, Two Rivers Trailway – Palmer Section
This 30 mile trail is unique as it passes through several parks and meanders along Bushkill Creek. The trail is nicely paved so it's perfect for hiking, running, or biking. It has several places to stop and relax along the way.
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Tyler Sanders
January 4, 2024, Glendon Hill Bridge
This 350-foot bridge, constructed in the early 1900s, spans the Lehigh River, connecting to the D&L Trail. This location is an excellent spot to enjoy views of the water and take some scenic pictures.
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Tyler Sanders
January 4, 2024, Delaware Canal State Park
This park is located at the confluence of the Delaware River and the Lehigh River. The park has several benches for observing the water, taking a break, and enjoying the waterfront views.
0
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Chloé Perceval
May 10, 2022, Delaware Canal State Park
This park stands where the Lehigh and Delaware rivers meet.
0
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Old Orchard?
There are over 25 touring cycling routes available around Old Orchard, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes cover more than 170 miles, with options for various surfaces including paved, crushed stone, and packed dirt.
What are the typical difficulty levels for touring cycling routes in Old Orchard?
The touring cycling routes in Old Orchard cater to a wide range of abilities. You'll find many easy to moderate trails, with 12 routes classified as easy and 16 as moderate. The terrain often features moderate elevation changes, making it accessible for most cyclists.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Old Orchard?
Yes, Old Orchard offers several family-friendly touring cycling routes. Many of the easy trails are suitable for families, such as the Glendon Hill Bridge – Delaware Canal State Park loop from Old Orchard, which is 9.9 miles long and has minimal elevation gain. The Dam Vista loop from Old Orchard is another easy option at 12.3 miles.
What kind of scenic views can I expect on touring cycling routes in Old Orchard?
Touring cycling routes in Old Orchard offer a blend of picturesque coastal scenery and tranquil marshland vistas. You can expect stunning views of the expansive Seven-Mile Sandy Beach, especially when the tide is out. Many routes also traverse or run alongside the Scarborough Marsh, Maine's largest salt marsh estuary, providing opportunities for wildlife observation and serene natural beauty.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the cycling routes?
Yes, several interesting landmarks and natural features can be explored. You might encounter the historic Bethlehem Steel Plant, or explore the natural beauty of Delaware Canal State Park. Other highlights include Louise W. Moore Park and the scenic Saint Anthony's Nose viewpoint.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Old Orchard?
The best time for touring cycling in Old Orchard is generally during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. This period offers pleasant weather for enjoying both the coastal views and marshland trails. The region is known for its diverse landscapes, which are particularly vibrant during these seasons.
Are there any loop trails for touring cyclists in Old Orchard?
Yes, Old Orchard features several excellent loop trails. A popular choice is the Delaware Canal State Park – Laubach Island loop from Easton, a 28.1-mile route. Another option is the Binney and Smith Preserve loop from Palmer Township, which is 11.7 miles long and offers a journey through the preserve.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Old Orchard?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.35 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, which includes riverine environments and protected parklands, and the variety of routes suitable for different ability levels.
Are there options for longer touring cycling routes in the area?
For those seeking longer rides, Old Orchard offers routes like the Delaware Canal State Park – Laubach Island loop from Easton, which spans 28.1 miles. Another substantial option is the Laubach Island loop from D&L Trail Farmersville Rd Trailhead, covering 18 miles.
What types of surfaces can I expect on the cycling trails?
The cycling trails around Old Orchard offer a variety of surfaces. You'll find options with paved sections, crushed stone paths, and packed dirt trails. This diversity ensures that cyclists can choose routes that best suit their bike type and preference, from smooth rides to more natural, off-road experiences.
Can I find cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
While specific cafes directly on every route are not detailed, Old Orchard Beach itself is known for its lively pier with shops and restaurants. Many routes are accessible from or pass near areas where you can find convenient and entertaining stops for refreshments and breaks.
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