The best road cycling routes in Shikellamy State Park

Road cycling routes in and around Shikellamy State Park feature varied terrain, including river valleys and forested slopes. While the park's Marina section offers a 1.5-mile paved path, many routes extend beyond the park, incorporating moderate elevation changes. For example, the The Knobs – The Rishel Covered Bridge loop from Milton State Park route includes significant elevation gain, navigating through scenic river valleys.

Yes, the region is rich in scenic beauty. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the confluence of the West and North Branches of the Susquehanna River, especially from the Shikellamy Overlook. Routes often offer glimpses of Lake Augusta, formed by the Sunbury Fabridam, and the surrounding towns of Sunbury and Northumberland. The Marina section's paved path provides views of Lake Augusta and the river.

The road cycling routes in Shikellamy State Park and the surrounding area are generally considered moderate. They often involve varied terrain and moderate climbs. For instance, routes like The Rishel Covered Bridge loop from Christy Mathewson Memorial Stadium cover over 60 kilometers with notable elevation gains, suitable for cyclists looking for a good challenge.

For families or those seeking an easier ride, the Marina section of Shikellamy State Park offers a 1.5-mile paved hiking and biking path. This path encircles the southern tip of Packer's Island, providing scenic views in a relatively flat and accessible environment. It's a great option for a relaxed outing.

Both the Overlook and Marina sections of Shikellamy State Park provide picnic areas and pavilions, which typically include parking facilities. These areas serve as convenient starting points for exploring the park's paved paths or accessing routes that extend into the wider region.

The park's diverse ecosystems and river views are enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, making them ideal for road cycling. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Bicycle rentals are available at the River Center boat rental during the summer.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Roadbike loop from Lewisburg Alliance Church and The Rishel Covered Bridge loop from Winfield, which offer circular journeys through the varied landscape.

The park's diverse ecosystems, including forested slopes and river valleys, support various wildlife. You might observe white-tailed deer and different songbirds along the routes. The cliffs below the Overlook are also known to be home to nests of endangered Peregrine Falcons.

While the Marina section of Shikellamy State Park welcomes cyclists on its paved path, it's important to note that biking is prohibited on the nature trails within the Overlook section. Always adhere to park signage and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. For more detailed information, you can consult the official Pennsylvania DCNR website for Shikellamy State Park: pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/shikellamy-state-park/biking.

There are several road cycling routes available in Shikellamy State Park and its vicinity. This guide features 5 distinct routes, all categorized as moderate difficulty, offering various distances and elevation profiles for exploration.

A popular longer route is The Knobs – The Rishel Covered Bridge loop from Milton State Park. This route spans 72.1 kilometers (44.8 miles) and typically takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete, featuring significant elevation gain and passing through scenic river valleys.

While specific establishments are not detailed in the route information, the park's proximity to towns like Sunbury and Northumberland, as well as other communities along the Susquehanna River, suggests that cafes and pubs would be accessible within a short distance from many of the cycling routes. These towns offer opportunities for refreshment stops.