The best traffic-free bike rides in Susquehannock State Park

This guide features 4 no-traffic gravel bike routes in and around Susquehannock State Park. These routes offer diverse experiences, from moderate to difficult, ensuring a suitable challenge for various skill levels.

While Susquehannock State Park itself is known for rugged hiking trails, the surrounding Susquehanna River Valley offers a wealth of gravel cycling routes. You can expect a mix of scenic country roads, unpaved sections, and paths alongside historic rivers. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, including idyllic farm country, rolling hills, and old-growth forests. For example, the Enola Low Grade Trail south – New Bridge at Safe Harbor loop from Creswell offers a moderate ride with varied surfaces.

While many routes in this guide are rated difficult, the Enola Low Grade Trail south – New Bridge at Safe Harbor loop from Creswell is classified as moderate, making it a more accessible option. The broader Susquehanna River Valley also features sections of the Enola Low Grade Trail that are known for being suitable for various fitness levels, including families, with both paved and unpaved surfaces.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in the Susquehannock State Park area, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter riding is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice on unpaved sections.

The region is rich in natural beauty. While the park's internal overlooks like Hawk Point and Wissler's Run offer spectacular panoramic views of the Susquehanna River and Conowingo Reservoir, the gravel routes in the wider area will take you through diverse landscapes. You might encounter river views, rolling hills, and dense forests. The Holtwood Dam Whitewater Park loop from Mill Creek Falls Nature Preserve, for instance, offers scenic views related to the river and dam.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many public trails in Pennsylvania, including state forest roads and multi-use trails, provided they are on a leash. However, specific rules can vary by trail and land manager. It's always best to check local regulations for the specific route you plan to ride to ensure it's dog-friendly.

Yes, this guide features several loop routes designed for gravel biking. For example, the challenging Camp Donegal to Susquehanna State Park loop and the Mason-Dixon Trail junction loop from New Bridgeville both offer extensive circular rides through the region.

The routes in this guide range from moderate to difficult. You'll find one moderate route, the Enola Low Grade Trail south – New Bridge at Safe Harbor loop from Creswell, which is 28 km long with 258 meters of elevation gain. The other three routes, including the Camp Donegal to Susquehanna State Park loop, are rated difficult, featuring significant distances and elevation changes.

Parking availability varies by route and starting point. Many trailheads for regional gravel routes, especially those on former rail lines like the Enola Low Grade Trail, typically have designated parking areas. For routes like the Holtwood Dam Whitewater Park loop from Mill Creek Falls Nature Preserve, you would generally look for parking near the nature preserve or other public access points.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, scenic nature of the routes, the challenging terrain for experienced riders, and the opportunity to explore the beautiful Susquehanna River Valley away from traffic.

While Susquehannock State Park itself offers picnic areas, the broader Lancaster County region provides various amenities. You'll find cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options in nearby towns and communities. It's advisable to plan your route and check for services in towns along your chosen path, as amenities might be sparse on the more remote sections of the trails.

Public transport options directly to the trailheads for gravel biking in this rural region are generally limited. Most riders access these trails by car. It's recommended to check local bus schedules or ride-sharing services for specific towns if you plan to rely on public transport, but direct access to trail starting points might be challenging.