The best traffic-free bike rides in Northampton County

Northampton County offers 25 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 11 easy, 13 moderate, and 1 difficult option, ensuring a suitable ride for most cyclists.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain, from the flat, paved surfaces of rail trails to routes featuring gentle rolling hills and river valleys. Many routes follow waterways like the Lehigh River and Bushkill Creek, offering scenic, mostly level paths. Some routes, particularly those incorporating parts of the Delaware Water Gap, might include more significant elevation changes.

Yes, Northampton County has several excellent family-friendly options. The Saucon Rail Trail loop from Hellertown is an easy, mostly flat route perfect for families. The D&L Trail, accessible from various points like Wy-Hit-Tuk Park, also offers long, generally flat sections suitable for all ages. Look for routes marked as 'easy' for the most suitable family experiences.

Many routes offer access to significant natural and historical sites. You can cycle past the historic Bethlehem Steel Plant, explore sections of the Delaware Canal State Park, or visit the Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center. The Saucon Rail Trail itself is a highlight, offering a pleasant ride through varied landscapes.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes are designed as loops. For example, the Delaware Canal State Park – Laubach Island loop from Easton and the Delaware Canal State Park – Delaware Canal State Park loop from Bethlehem are popular moderate circular routes. For an easier option, consider the Saucon Rail Trail loop from Hellertown.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Northampton County, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer weather. While some trails are accessible year-round, winter cycling might be limited by snow and ice, especially on unpaved sections.

Many trails in Northampton County, including sections of the D&L Trail and rail trails, are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before you go, as rules can vary by park or trail section. Please ensure you clean up after your pet.

Many popular trailheads and parks offer dedicated parking. For instance, Wy-Hit-Tuk Park provides access and parking for the D&L Trail. Wayne A. Grube Memorial Park is another access point with parking for the Nor-Bath Trail. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.

The komoot community rates touring cycling in Northampton County highly, with an average score of 4.37 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the scenic river views, and the well-maintained surfaces of the rail trails. The historical points of interest and the variety of routes for different skill levels are also often highlighted.

Yes, many routes pass through or near towns and communities where you can find cafes, restaurants, and shops. Trails like the D&L Trail connect historic cities such as Bethlehem and Easton, offering numerous options for refreshments and meals. The Ruins of pottery building loop from Bethlehem, for example, starts and ends in Bethlehem, providing easy access to amenities.

The routes vary significantly in length and difficulty. You'll find easy rides as short as 15 km, like the Delaware Canal State Park – Glendon Hill Bridge loop from Old Orchard, up to moderate routes around 45 km. The majority are moderate, offering a good balance of distance and manageable elevation gain, suitable for cyclists with a reasonable level of fitness.