1.
Whipple Dam State Park loop from Whipple Dam State Park
23.9km
02:01
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
The best cycling routes in Whipple Dam State Park
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 1, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling in Whipple Dam State Park, you know how overwhelming the options can be. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and what's just filler. We get it; sifting through countless trails to find those true gems can feel like a ride in itself. That's why we've done the legwork for you: our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed these routes, so this guide is your curated shortlist of the ones that truly deliver.
Touring cycling here means immersing yourself in serene lake views and lush forests, with the park itself offering pleasant roadways that quickly lead into the more extensive, varied terrain of Rothrock State Forest. Expect everything from rolling hills to significant elevation changes, with routes ranging from moderate to genuinely challenging. The fall foliage here is particularly vibrant, making autumn a spectacular time to explore by bike.
If you only do one route, we'd start with the Whipple Dam State Park loop from Whipple Dam State Park. At 14.9 miles (23.9 km) with a good climb, it's a popular choice that gives you a fantastic feel for the park's forested character. For those seeking a bigger challenge and more miles, the Whipple Dam State Park – Bear Meadows Natural Area loop from Stone Valley Recreation Area is a demanding 44.5 miles (71.6 km) journey that really stretches your legs into the wider forest. Dive in and discover why more than 30 touring cyclists have already found their perfect ride here with komoot.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whipple Dam State Park loop from Whipple Dam State Park | 23.9 km | 460 m | Hard |
| Bear Meadows Natural Area – Bear Meadows Natural Area loop from Whipple Dam State Park | 36.8 km | 700 m | Hard |
| Whipple Dam State Park – Bear Meadows Natural Area loop from Stone Valley Recreation Area | 71.6 km | 1,350 m | Hard |
| Linden Hall Church – Centre Hall, Pennsylvania loop from Foxpointe Drive at West Autumnwood Drive | 50.1 km | 420 m | Moderate |
| Granny Lane Pond – Haugh Family Farm Open Space loop from Struble | 40.9 km | 310 m | Moderate |
| Standing Stone Creek road loop from Alan Seeger Natural Area | 22.1 km | 470 m | Hard |
Sign up to see all 6 routes
Sign up for free
2.
Bear Meadows Natural Area – Bear Meadows Natural Area loop from Whipple Dam State Park
36.8km
03:09
700m
700m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
3.
Whipple Dam State Park – Bear Meadows Natural Area loop from Stone Valley Recreation Area
71.6km
06:29
1,350m
1,350m
If you're looking for a demanding touring cycling adventure in central Pennsylvania, the Whipple Dam State Park – Bear Meadows Natural Area loop from Stone Valley Recreation Area delivers. This difficult 44.5-mile (71.6 km) route takes you through varied terrain, from the serene lake views of Whipple Dam State Park to the rugged, forested ridges of Rothrock State Forest. You'll experience a substantial 4414 feet (1345 metres) of elevation gain, making it a true test of endurance and fitness.
Plan for a full day on the saddle, as this challenging loop typically takes around 6 hours and 28 minutes to complete. While specific parking information for Stone Valley Recreation Area is not detailed, it serves as a popular starting point for local riders. The route includes both paved and potentially unpaved sections, so come prepared for mixed surfaces and ensure your bike is suitable for varied conditions.
This route is a favorite among local touring cyclists for good reason, offering a blend of natural beauty and physical challenge. You'll pass by the unique fen wetland of Bear Meadows Natural Area, a National Natural Landmark known for its black and red spruce trees and potential wildlife sightings. The scenic Laurel Run Road, with its mountain laurel shrubs, adds to the charm, especially during the vibrant fall season.
View route
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.
Sign up for free
4.
Linden Hall Church – Centre Hall, Pennsylvania loop from Foxpointe Drive at West Autumnwood Drive
50.1km
03:01
420m
420m
This touring cycling loop from Foxpointe Drive at West Autumnwood Drive takes you through the picturesque, rolling backcountry roads of Centre County, Pennsylvania. You'll pass through expansive agricultural lands and wooded areas, with the charming Linden Hall Historic District offering a glimpse into 19th and early 20th-century vernacular architecture. The route provides a varied cycling experience, showcasing the region's diverse landscape of valleys, plateaus, and ridges.
To tackle this moderate 31.1-mile (50.1 km) route with 1370 feet (418 metres) of elevation gain, plan for about 3 hours and 1 minutes of cycling. The starting point is Foxpointe Drive at West Autumnwood Drive. While many roads are well-paved, be aware that some segments might be unpaved, so check local conditions. Spring and autumn generally offer the best weather for cycling in this area.
Centre County is known for its tranquil rural character, providing a peaceful cycling environment away from heavy traffic. The Linden Hall Historic District, with its preserved structures, adds a unique historical element to your ride, highlighting a small rural village that developed around a grist mill. This loop is an excellent choice for cyclists seeking a blend of natural beauty, a good workout, and a touch of local history.
View route
5.
Granny Lane Pond – Haugh Family Farm Open Space loop from Struble
40.9km
02:27
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
6.
Standing Stone Creek road loop from Alan Seeger Natural Area
22.1km
02:19
470m
470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
Sign up for free to see 1 more ride in Whipple Dam State Park.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
See every route on the map
Tips from the Community
Andrus
August 19, 2024, Whipple Dam State Park
Whipple Dam State Park covers 256 acres around Whipple Lake. Many outdoor activities are available to visitors such as swimming, picnicking, beach volleyball, boating, fishing, and more.
0
0
Andrus
June 3, 2024, Centre Hall, Pennsylvania
Centre Hall is so named because it sits near the geographic center of Penns Valley. Generally a small, quiet town, Centre Hall hosts "The Grange Fair" during the last week of August and becomes much busier.
0
0
Lisa
June 1, 2024, Bear Meadows Natural Area
Encompassing almost 900 acres, the Bear Meadows Natural Area contains a fen wetland. There are some nice walking trails here, fringed by black and red spruce trees, balsam fir, and lots of high bush blueberries.
0
0
Andrus
June 1, 2024, View of Bear Meadows from Quinn's Rock
One of a few viewpoints in the area, Quinn's Rock offers a nice view across Bear Meadows. The fall colors can be beautiful as well.
1
0
Alex
February 21, 2024, North Meadows Road view
You gain lovely views of Bear Meadows Natural Area from the road here. You'll see plenty of empty wilderness and perhaps some wildlife if you have a keen eye. A great spot for a break.
0
0
Lisa
February 21, 2024, Bear Meadows Natural Area
Encompassing almost 900 acres, the Bear Meadows Natural Area contains a fen wetland. There are some nice walking trails here, fringed by black and red spruce trees, balsam fir, and lots of high bush blueberries.
0
0
Alex
February 21, 2024, Giant Seeger view
The view of Seeger Road traveling up Broad Mountain is spectacular from here. You can see far across the valley, making it a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the views.
0
0
Alex
February 21, 2024, Standing Stone Creek road
This gravel stretch of road is absolutely stunning, running through tall trees that have plenty of room between them. It is very quiet here, giving you the chance to find peace in nature.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Whipple Dam State Park and the surrounding area?
There are several touring cycling routes available in and around Whipple Dam State Park, offering a range of distances and challenges. Komoot currently features 5 routes, with options extending into the larger Rothrock State Forest.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Whipple Dam State Park?
The terrain for touring cycling routes in this region varies. While biking within Whipple Dam State Park itself is mainly on roadways, the surrounding Rothrock State Forest offers extensive trail networks. You can expect a mix of paved surfaces and forest roads, with routes featuring significant elevation changes, especially on longer tours. For example, the Bear Meadows Natural Area loop includes over 1300 meters of elevation gain.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling options in Whipple Dam State Park?
While many of the featured touring routes are rated as moderate to difficult due to distance and elevation, the park itself offers a more relaxed environment. The 22-acre Whipple Lake provides a peaceful setting, and the 3-mile Whipple Lake Trail, though primarily for hiking, showcases the park's natural beauty that families can enjoy before or after a ride. For cycling, routes like the Linden Hall Church – Centre Hall, Pennsylvania loop are rated moderate and cover rural landscapes with rolling hills, which might be suitable for more experienced cycling families.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while cycling in the Whipple Dam State Park area?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You'll encounter the serene Whipple Lake, surrounded by lush forests. The routes often extend into the expansive Rothrock State Forest, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including waterfowl, great blue herons, osprey, beavers, and muskrats. Historic structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) also add a touch of historical interest to the area.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Whipple Dam State Park?
The region is particularly stunning during autumn when the vibrant fall foliage transforms the area into a display of colors, making it a prime spot for scenic rides. Spring and summer also offer pleasant conditions for cycling, with lush greenery and opportunities to enjoy the lake. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, several touring cycling routes in the area are circular. For instance, the Whipple Dam State Park loop from Whipple Dam State Park is a 23.9 km circular route that navigates through the park's forested areas. Another option is the Bear Meadows Natural Area loop, a longer and more challenging circular path extending into Rothrock State Forest.
What do other touring cyclists say about cycling in Whipple Dam State Park?
The touring cycling routes in Whipple Dam State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the serene lake views, lush forests, and the extensive network of trails available in the surrounding Rothrock State Forest, which provides options for various ability levels.
Is parking available for touring cyclists at Whipple Dam State Park?
Yes, parking is available at Whipple Dam State Park. The park serves as a convenient starting point for many routes, including the Whipple Dam State Park loop. For routes extending further into Rothrock State Forest, additional parking options may be available at various trailheads or access points.
Are dogs allowed on the touring cycling routes in Whipple Dam State Park?
Whipple Dam State Park is generally dog-friendly, but specific rules may apply to different areas or trails. While the Whipple Lake Trail is popular for walks, it's always best to check the official park regulations regarding dogs on cycling routes or in specific areas within the park and Rothrock State Forest. For detailed information, you can visit the official pa.gov website for Whipple Dam State Park.
What are some longer, more challenging touring cycling routes in the area?
For those seeking a significant challenge, the Bear Meadows Natural Area loop from Stone Valley Recreation Area is a difficult 71.4 km route with over 1300 meters of elevation gain, taking approximately 6 hours and 28 minutes to complete. Another challenging option is the Bike loop from Alan Seeger Natural Area, which covers 45 km with over 800 meters of elevation.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the touring cycling routes in Whipple Dam State Park?
Whipple Dam State Park itself is a tranquil natural area, so amenities like cafes and pubs are not typically found directly within the park. However, nearby towns and communities in Huntingdon County and Centre Hall will offer dining options for refreshments before or after your ride. It's advisable to plan your route and check for services in advance.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
