The best gravel rides in Lehigh Gorge State Park

Lehigh Gorge State Park offers a network of 5 gravel biking routes, ranging from moderate to difficult. These trails are built on former rail beds, providing a unique experience through the river-carved gorge.

The primary trail, the Lehigh Gorge Trail, features a smooth crushed-stone or crushed quartz stone surface. When traveling south from White Haven to Jim Thorpe, the trail has a gentle, predominantly downhill grade of 2% to 4%, making it less strenuous. While heading north involves a slight uphill grade, the overall experience is accessible for various skill levels. Wide tires are recommended for the crushed stone surface.

Yes, the gentle, predominantly downhill grade of the Lehigh Gorge Trail when riding southbound makes it suitable for families and beginners. While all routes listed in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the overall trail system offers an easy and traffic-free experience. For a moderate option, consider the Views of the Lehigh River – Bridge view loop from Lehighton, which is 15.8 miles (25.5 km) long.

The trails offer constant views of the Lehigh River and the dramatic gorge. You can also discover numerous rock outcroppings and breathtaking waterfalls like Buttermilk Falls and Luke's Falls. The area also features relics from its coal-mining past, including the historic Lehigh Canal and the Abandoned Coal Tunnel.

Yes, there are several loop options available. For example, the White Haven – D&L Trail loop from Penn Lake Park is a 26.9-mile (43.3 km) route that takes you through the Lehigh Gorge.

The park is beautiful year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. The trails are mostly shaded, providing a comfortable ride even on warmer days. In colder months, the trail is also used for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

Parking and trailhead access are available at various points along the Lehigh Gorge Trail. Towns like Jim Thorpe, White Haven, and Rockport serve as common starting points. Shuttle services are also available from outfitters in these towns, facilitating one-way rides, especially for the southbound, predominantly downhill journey.

Lehigh Gorge State Park is generally dog-friendly, but it's always best to check the specific regulations for the Lehigh Gorge Trail and any other trails you plan to use on the official park website. Typically, dogs must be on a leash.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural landscapes, the constant views of the Lehigh River, and the historical elements along the well-maintained crushed-stone trails. The gentle downhill grade when riding south is also frequently highlighted as a major plus.

Yes, bike rental and shuttle services are readily available from various outfitters in towns adjacent to the park, such as Jim Thorpe, White Haven, and Rockport. These services are particularly useful for planning one-way rides, taking advantage of the trail's gentle downhill slope when heading south.

For official information regarding park regulations, facilities, and current conditions, you can visit the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) website for Lehigh Gorge State Park: pa.gov - Lehigh Gorge State Park.