The best cycling routes in Colton Point State Park

There are 4 touring cycling routes listed in Colton Point State Park, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. These routes offer diverse experiences within the park's stunning natural landscape.

The touring cycling routes in Colton Point State Park primarily follow the Pine Creek Gorge area. While the Pine Creek Rail Trail, which is accessible nearby, offers a relatively flat, hard-packed gravel surface, detours to Colton Point State Park's rim involve climbs to reach the spectacular overlooks. For example, the Pine Creek Gorge – Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township features an elevation gain of approximately 338 meters over nearly 60 kilometers, indicating moderate climbs.

Yes, there is one easy touring cycling route available. The Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township is approximately 16 kilometers long with about 118 meters of elevation gain, making it a good option for those seeking a less strenuous ride.

Colton Point State Park is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Pine Creek Gorge, often called the "Pennsylvania Grand Canyon." Scenic overlooks like Pine Creek Overlook and Barbour Rock Overlook provide panoramic vistas. While cycling, you'll experience dense forests, and in late spring, blooming rhododendrons add vibrant color to the landscape. The park also features rugged waterfall trails, though these are typically for hiking.

Colton Point State Park is located on the rim of the Pine Creek Gorge, while the Pine Creek Rail Trail runs along the bottom. A popular bikepacking loop in the area incorporates detours from the Rail Trail to reach the overlooks at Colton Point State Park. These detours involve climbs to connect the two areas, but the views are well worth the effort.

While Colton Point State Park offers various trails, the Rim Trail is primarily a hiking loop along the eastern edge of the rim, and the Turkey Path is a difficult hiking trail descending to the canyon floor with waterfalls. These trails are generally not suitable or permitted for touring cycling due to their rugged and steep nature. Touring cycling is best enjoyed on designated routes and the nearby Pine Creek Rail Trail.

The late spring, summer, and early fall months are generally the best for touring cycling in Colton Point State Park. Late spring offers the beauty of blooming rhododendrons. Fall provides stunning foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as winter can bring snow and ice, making trails impassable or hazardous for cycling.

Colton Point State Park provides parking facilities for visitors. However, public transport options directly to the park are limited, so most visitors arrive by car. It's advisable to check the official Pennsylvania DCNR website for the most current information on park access and facilities.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the unparalleled natural beauty of the Pine Creek Gorge, the rewarding views after climbs, and the connection to the scenic Pine Creek Rail Trail for a diverse cycling experience.

Yes, for more experienced riders looking for longer distances, routes like the Pine Creek Gorge – Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township (nearly 60 km) and the Pine Creek – Pine Creek Gorge loop from Blackwell (over 52 km) offer substantial distances and moderate elevation changes, providing a good challenge while exploring the region.