The best road cycling routes in Lehigh Gorge State Park

Road cycling in Lehigh Gorge State Park is generally accessible, with routes suitable for various skill levels. The terrain primarily follows an abandoned railroad grade, offering a mostly flat surface. Many routes feature a gentle 2% downhill grade when traveling south from White Haven to Jim Thorpe, making for a pleasant experience. This guide includes 1 easy route and 3 moderate routes.

Yes, the mostly flat and multi-use surface of the trails, particularly the Lehigh Gorge Trail, makes them suitable for families. The gentle downhill grade when heading south from White Haven to Jim Thorpe is also ideal for a relaxed family ride. Wide tires are recommended due to the trail's surface.

The routes in Lehigh Gorge State Park offer stunning views of the deep, steep-walled gorge carved by the Lehigh River, with thick vegetation and dramatic rock outcroppings. You can expect to see the Lehigh River itself, numerous waterfalls like Buttermilk Falls and Luke's Falls, and the Francis E. Walter Dam at the northern end of the park. The landscape also features remnants of the region's rich coal mining history, such as the Abandoned Coal Tunnel.

Yes, there are several loop options. For instance, the D&L Trail loop from Walter Dike Number One is a popular 42.6-mile route offering extensive views. Another option is the White Haven to Frances Walter Dam loop, which is 16.0 miles long and explores the northern part of the park.

Lehigh Gorge State Park offers beautiful scenery throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and flowing waterfalls, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, making it a particularly scenic time for a ride. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, parking is available at various access points along the Lehigh Gorge Trail. Popular starting points like White Haven and Jim Thorpe offer convenient parking options for cyclists looking to explore the park's routes.

Yes, bicycle rentals and shuttle services are readily available in the towns surrounding Lehigh Gorge State Park, such as Jim Thorpe and White Haven. These services offer convenient access to different sections of the trail and facilitate one-way trips, especially for those wanting to take advantage of the gentle downhill grade from White Haven to Jim Thorpe.

Generally, no specific permits are required for cycling on the multi-use trails within Lehigh Gorge State Park for day use. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Pennsylvania DCNR website for any updated regulations or specific requirements for certain activities or areas within the park. You can find more information at pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/lehigh-gorge-state-park/biking.

The longest road cycling route in this guide is the D&L Trail loop from Walter Dike Number One, which spans 42.6 miles (68.5 km) and typically takes around 3 hours and 22 minutes to complete.

The towns adjacent to Lehigh Gorge State Park, such as White Haven and Jim Thorpe, offer various amenities including cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. These towns serve as excellent starting or ending points for your cycling adventures, providing places to refuel and relax.

The Lehigh Gorge Trail, a significant part of the larger Delaware and Lehigh (D&L) National Heritage Corridor Trail, is unique for its mostly flat, multi-use surface built on an abandoned railroad grade. A distinctive feature is the gentle 2% downhill grade when traveling south from White Haven to Jim Thorpe, offering a particularly enjoyable and less strenuous ride through the scenic gorge.