The best gravel rides in Pine Grove Furnace State Park
4.8
(7)
88
riders
4
rides
Gravel biking in Pine Grove Furnace State Park offers routes through the northern tip of the Blue Ridge Mountains, surrounded by the expansive Michaux State Forest. The region features a diverse landscape of wooded mountain slopes, two mountain lakes, and historical iron furnace sites. Gravel bike trails in Pine Grove Furnace State Park often include unpaved sections and can feature significant elevation changes, providing varied terrain for cyclists.
Best gravel bike trails in Pine Grove Furnace State Park
- The most…
Last updated: July 11, 2026
5.0
(2)
30
riders
72.3km
05:15
1,150m
1,150m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
5
riders
29.8km
02:14
500m
500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
riders
70.0km
05:21
1,190m
1,190m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
23.1km
01:40
340m
340m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Good water supply and lots of shaded places to rest out of the sun
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Pine Grover Road, hugged by trees, offers cyclists an excellent route. Adjacent to the park, this lightly trafficked road features a smooth, paved surface.
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With picnic benches and plenty of space around the water's edge, Laurel Lake is a great spot to take a break off of the bike. A lovely spot for a picnic.
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Visitors to the museum can check out displays chronicling the trail's origins, development, and significance. There is information about historical hikers as well as the Appalachian Trail's natural surroundings. This Appalachian Trail museum is located almost exactly at the halfway point of the trail between Georgia and Maine.
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Here, you'll uncover remnants of a former mining site, including an 18th-century Iron Furnace used as a smelter for iron ore.
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Michaux State Forest encompasses more than 85,500 acres in the South Mountain areas of Cumberland County, Franklin County and Adams County. As well as being a thriving working forest area that spans three counties, it is open to recreational hunting, fishing, hiking and mountain biking. It is also crossed by the Appalachian Trail.
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The Michaux State Forest was bought from the old timber and iron mining companies after they had clear-cut and destroyed the old growth. Conservationists realized that without good forest management the forest wouldn't re-grow, so the land was purchased and the Michaux State Forest was created.
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Long Pine Run Reservoir is a picturesque body of water situated in Michaux State Forest. The reservoir offers opportunities for fishing and boating. It's also a great place to have a rest off the bike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are there in Pine Grove Furnace State Park?
There are 5 gravel bike routes available in Pine Grove Furnace State Park on komoot, offering a range of experiences from moderate loops to more challenging rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Pine Grove Furnace State Park?
The terrain varies, with many routes featuring unpaved sections and significant elevation changes, especially those extending into the surrounding Michaux State Forest. You'll encounter wooded mountain slopes and well-groomed gravel paths. For example, the Appalachian Trail Museum – Stream in Michaux State Forest loop from Cooke Township is 90% unpaved with substantial elevation.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in Pine Grove Furnace State Park?
Yes, the Cumberland County Biker-Hiker Trail, which runs through the park, is considered ADA accessible and family-friendly. It features a crushed limestone and pavement surface, connecting the Furnace Stack Day Use Area with Laurel Lake Day Use Area.
What historical sites and natural features can I see along the gravel bike trails?
You can explore several notable attractions. Many routes pass by the historic Pine Grove Furnace and the Appalachian Trail Museum. You'll also encounter beautiful mountain lakes like Laurel Lake and Fuller Lake, and the iconic Appalachian Trail itself.
Are there any loop routes for gravel biking in the area?
Yes, many of the gravel routes in Pine Grove Furnace State Park are loops. For instance, the Iron Furnace – Laurel Lake loop from Bendersville is a moderate 22.7 km (14.1 miles) loop that takes you past historical sites and Laurel Lake.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Pine Grove Furnace State Park?
The park offers year-round opportunities, but spring and fall generally provide the most pleasant weather for gravel biking, with comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm, and winter rides are possible but require appropriate gear for colder conditions.
Is parking available for gravel bikers in Pine Grove Furnace State Park?
Yes, parking is available within Pine Grove Furnace State Park, particularly at day-use areas like the Furnace Stack Day Use Area and Laurel Lake Day Use Area, which provide convenient access to the trails.
Are there any cafes or places to get food near the gravel trails?
The Pine Grove General Store, located within the park, offers services and provisions that are helpful for cyclists. Additionally, there are cafes and restaurants in nearby towns.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the routes in Pine Grove Furnace State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 5 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, the blend of natural beauty and historical significance, and the variety of trails suitable for different activity levels.
Are there any particularly challenging gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes extending into Michaux State Forest offer significant elevation changes and longer distances. The Abigail Trail – Big Flat Tower loop from Big Flat Parking Lot is a difficult 71.3 km (44.3 miles) route with over 1500 meters of elevation gain.
Can I access the Appalachian Trail from the gravel biking routes?
Yes, a 1.4-mile portion of the Appalachian Trail runs directly through Pine Grove Furnace State Park, and the Cumberland County Biker-Hiker Trail also overlaps with a section of it. You can visit the Appalachian Trail Museum within the park, which is considered the midway point of the entire trail.
Are permits or entrance fees required for gravel biking in Pine Grove Furnace State Park?
Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for biking on the trails within Pine Grove Furnace State Park. However, it's always a good idea to check the official park website for any updates on regulations or fees: pa.gov/pine-grove-furnace-state-park.
Most popular routes in Pine Grove Furnace State Park
Most popular attractions in Pine Grove Furnace State Park
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