The best traffic-free bike rides in Lehigh Gap Wildlife Refuge

There are 6 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes in Lehigh Gap Wildlife Refuge featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of distances and difficulties, ensuring options for different skill levels.

The routes primarily follow established trails like the D&L Trail and LNE Trail, which are generally flat or have gentle gradients, making them ideal for touring cyclists. You'll experience diverse landscapes including riparian zones along the Lehigh River, forests, and open scrubland, with some sections offering scenic views of the Kittatinny Ridge.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. For an easy and scenic ride, consider "Views of the Lehigh River loop from Lehighton," which is 13.7 km long and features minimal elevation gain. Another great option is "Bridge view – Views of the Lehigh River loop from Lehighton," an easy 21.3 km loop.

Lehigh Gap Wildlife Refuge is accessible year-round from dawn until dusk. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with spring bringing wildflowers and autumn showcasing vibrant fall foliage. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended. Winter cycling is possible, but trail conditions may vary with snow or ice.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the "D&L Trail loop from Walnutport" is a moderate 34.5 km circular route, and the "Views of the Lehigh River – Bridge view loop from Lehighton" offers a moderate 28.4 km loop with picturesque river views.

The refuge is home to diverse wildlife. Cyclists often spot beaver, otter, Mallards, and Belted Kingfishers near the Lehigh River. The area is also a vital corridor for migrating birds, including hawks, eagles, and falcons, especially along the Kittatinny Ridge. Various warblers, orioles, and non-venomous black rat snakes can also be observed.

Parking is generally available at designated access points along the D&L Trail and near the Lehigh Gap Nature Center's Osprey House, which serves as a visitor center. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations and availability.

While the guide focuses on cycling, the Lehigh Gap Wildlife Refuge generally permits dogs on trails, provided they are kept on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before you go, as rules can vary.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the trails, the scenic views of the Lehigh River and Kittatinny Ridge, and the well-maintained surfaces that are perfect for touring bikes.

While the refuge itself is a natural area, towns like Lehighton and Walnutport, which serve as starting points for some routes, offer various amenities including cafes and restaurants where you can refuel before or after your ride.

Many routes offer stunning views of the Lehigh River and the Kittatinny Ridge. The refuge's diverse habitats, including ponds, wetlands, and forests, provide picturesque backdrops. The success story of ecological restoration at this former Superfund site is also a significant feature, highlighting the area's natural resilience.