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

There are 5 curated traffic-free gravel bike routes in the Lehigh Gap Wildlife Refuge area, ranging from moderate to difficult. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful and scenic cycling experience away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families or those new to gravel biking, particularly sections of the D&L Trail. While all routes in this guide are rated moderate or difficult, they primarily follow former rail beds, offering relatively gentle grades. For example, the D&L Trail – Views of the Lehigh River loop from Lehigh Gap is a popular choice that provides scenic views on a well-maintained surface.

The trails in Lehigh Gap Wildlife Refuge offer a rich tapestry of natural beauty and historical significance. You'll ride alongside the Lehigh River, with opportunities to see towering rock cliffs, dense forests, and potentially waterfalls, especially along the D&L Trail. The refuge itself is a testament to ecological restoration, transforming from a former industrial site into a thriving ecosystem with diverse habitats. You might also encounter historic rail beds, offering a glimpse into the area's past.

Generally, dogs are welcome on leash on most trails within the Lehigh Gap Wildlife Refuge, including the D&L and LNE Trails, which form the basis of these gravel bike routes. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for all visitors.

Yes, many of the routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the D&L Trail loop from Walnutport offers a moderate circular ride, providing varied scenery without retracing your steps.

The Lehigh Gap Wildlife Refuge is beautiful year-round, but spring and fall are particularly popular for gravel biking. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers spectacular fall foliage along the Lehigh River and through the forests. Summer can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are best, and winter rides are possible, though trail conditions may vary with snow and ice.

Parking is available at various access points along the D&L and LNE Trails. Specific parking areas can be found near towns like Palmerton, Walnutport, and Lehighton, which serve as starting points for many of the routes. For example, the Bridge view – Abandoned Coal Tunnel loop from Palmerton typically starts from a convenient parking location in Palmerton.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Lehigh Gap Wildlife Refuge, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the traffic-free trails, the stunning views of the Lehigh River, and the unique experience of riding through areas with significant ecological restoration. The well-maintained crushed-stone surfaces of the D&L and LNE Trails are also frequently highlighted as a major plus.

Absolutely. For those seeking a more demanding ride, the Views of the Lehigh River – Buttermilk Falls loop from Walnutport is a difficult-rated route spanning over 90 kilometers. This extensive loop offers a significant challenge with varied terrain and rewarding views, including the scenic Buttermilk Falls.

Yes, the diverse habitats of the Lehigh Gap Wildlife Refuge make it an excellent spot for wildlife observation. You might spot migratory birds, butterflies, and various native wildflowers. Keep an eye out for Eastern Bluebirds, American Kestrels, and Red-tailed Hawks in the restored grassland areas, and beaver, otter, or Belted Kingfishers near ponds and wetlands.

The primary traffic-free gravel bike trails in the refuge, such as the D&L Trail and sections of the LNE Trail, are typically crushed-stone surfaces. These former rail beds provide a relatively smooth and stable riding experience, ideal for gravel bikes, offering a comfortable ride while still feeling like an outdoor adventure.

Yes, the D&L Trail, in particular, connects to various towns and points of interest along the Lehigh River. Riding the Views of the Lehigh River – Bridge view loop from Lehighton, for example, allows you to explore the surroundings of Lehighton and enjoy views of bridges and the river, offering opportunities to stop and explore local amenities.