The best traffic-free bike rides in Cambria County

There are 5 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes currently available in Cambria County on komoot, ranging from easy to difficult. These routes are specifically designed to keep you away from vehicular traffic, offering a peaceful cycling experience.

Cambria County is renowned for its excellent rail-trails. The Ghost Town Trail is a prime example, offering a blend of scenic beauty and historical interest over its 54 miles. Another significant trail is the Path of the Flood Trail, which provides a unique historical journey through the site of the 1889 Johnstown Flood. You can explore a section of the Ghost Town Trail with the Ghost Town Trail – Eliza Furnace loop from Dilltown.

Yes, Cambria County offers several easy no-traffic routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Eliza Furnace loop from Dilltown is an easy 19.6 km ride. Another accessible option is the Ghost Town Trail – Eliza Furnace loop from Dilltown, which covers 31.4 km with minimal elevation gain.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Cambria County traverse a diverse landscape on the Allegheny Plateau. You'll encounter rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque waterways. Trails like the Ghost Town Trail pass through the Blacklick Creek valley, known for its mountain streams, rhododendron groves, and diverse wildflowers, offering breathtaking views and rich biodiversity.

Absolutely. Many routes are rich in history. The Ghost Town Trail, for example, features the incredibly well-preserved Eliza Furnace, a National Register site. The Path of the Flood Trail guides you through the former lakebed of the South Fork Dam, connecting to sites like the Staple Bend Tunnel, part of America's first railroad tunnel. The Johnstown Flood National Memorial is also nearby.

Spring, summer, and fall are generally excellent for touring cycling in Cambria County. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and rhododendron blooms, while summer offers lush green scenery. Autumn is particularly stunning with the changing fall foliage, making for incredibly scenic rides. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Ghost Town Trail – Eliza Furnace loop from Dilltown is a popular moderate option, and the Ghost Town Trail – Eliza Furnace loop from Cambria County also offers a substantial loop experience.

While the cycling routes themselves offer scenic forest and valley views, for truly panoramic vistas, you might consider visiting the Viewpoint from Grandview Cemetery or experiencing the Johnstown Inclined Plane, the world's steepest vehicular inclined plane, which provides expansive views of Johnstown and the Stonycreek River valley.

Many of the rail-trails, such as sections of the Ghost Town Trail and the Staple Bend Tunnel Trail, are crushed limestone paths with gentle grades, making them very suitable for families and children. The easy routes listed, like the Eliza Furnace loop from Dilltown, are great starting points for family outings.

For additional information on trails and outdoor recreation opportunities beyond cycling, you can visit the official Cambria County website: cambriacountypa.gov/trails-outdoor-recreation/. This resource can provide details on other activities and attractions in the region.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Honan Avenue Trail – Viewpoint of South Fork Dam loop from Johnstown is classified as difficult. This 65.3 km route features significant elevation gain, offering a more strenuous ride through varied terrain.