The best MTB trails around National Park

The mountain bike trails in National Park primarily cater to moderate and difficult skill levels. There is 1 moderate trail and 2 difficult trails listed in this guide. For example, the Wissahickon Creek Viewpoint – Wissahickon Creek Waterfall loop from Penn Medicine is considered difficult, while the Mercury Pavilion – View of Boathouse Row loop from Ellsworth-Federal offers a moderate challenge.

The mountain bike trails in National Park vary in length. You can find routes like the Mercury Pavilion – View of Boathouse Row loop from Ellsworth-Federal, which is 24.6 miles (39.6 km) long and takes about 2 hours 45 minutes. Longer options include the Wissahickon Creek Waterfall – Wissahickon Creek Viewpoint loop from 15th-16th & Locust, spanning 39.0 miles (62.8 km) and typically completed in about 4 hours 7 minutes.

Based on the trails listed in this guide, there are no routes specifically categorized as 'easy' or ideal for beginners or young children. The available trails are rated as moderate or difficult, suggesting they are better suited for riders with some experience.

Mountain biking in National Park features diverse terrain, including creek valleys, forested paths, and scenic viewpoints. Riders will encounter a mix of surfaces and elevations, with routes that traverse different natural features and offer challenging climbs and technical sections.

The mountain bike trails in National Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 3 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, scenic creek views, and the natural setting that provides a rewarding outdoor experience.

Yes, all the mountain bike trails highlighted in this guide are circular routes. Examples include the Wissahickon Creek Viewpoint – Wissahickon Creek Waterfall loop from Penn Medicine and the Mercury Pavilion – View of Boathouse Row loop from Ellsworth-Federal, allowing you to start and end at the same point.

While riding the trails, you're in proximity to several notable attractions. You could visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps (Rocky Steps), the Rocky Statue, or the historic Masonic Temple, Philadelphia. These are great spots to explore before or after your ride.

Some of the mountain bike routes, such as those starting 'from Penn Medicine' or 'from Ellsworth-Federal', originate from urban areas that typically have good public transport links. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules for specific trailhead access.

National Park offers mountain biking opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn generally provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be warm, while winter riding might depend on snow and ice conditions, which can vary.

While this guide focuses on popular and highly-rated routes, the region's extensive network of creek valleys and forested paths means there are always less-traveled sections to discover. Exploring beyond the main routes can reveal quieter trails and unique viewpoints within the National Park area.

This guide features 3 distinct mountain bike trails around National Park, offering a selection of moderate to difficult routes for riders to explore.