The best traffic-free bike rides in Delaware County

Delaware County offers over 20 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes. These routes range in difficulty, providing options for various skill levels to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Delaware County are predominantly moderate to difficult. There are 12 moderate routes and 9 difficult routes, offering engaging challenges for experienced cyclists. While there are no routes classified as easy, many trails like the Radnor Trail or sections of the Chester Creek Trail offer paved, relatively flat surfaces suitable for a relaxed pace.

Yes, several routes offer a loop format, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Millbrook Covered Bridge loop from Delaware & Ulster Rail Ride, which provides a scenic circular journey through the area.

Delaware County's no-traffic road cycling routes feature a diverse mix of terrains. You can expect everything from paved, relatively flat paths like those found in Ridley Creek State Park or the Radnor Trail, to routes with rolling hills and more challenging ascents, such as the Bridge Over Pepacton Reservoir loop from Town of Andes. The region is known for its extensive parklands, woodlands, and scenic river corridors.

While the komoot routes are generally moderate to difficult, several paved trails within Delaware County are excellent for families. The five-mile paved trail in Ridley Creek State Park is specifically designated for bicyclists, and the Radnor Trail offers a paved surface suitable for all skill levels. The Chester Creek Trail is also a shaded, tree-lined path perfect for a quick and easy ride with family.

Delaware County boasts numerous natural features. While specific viewpoints vary by route, you can expect to cycle through woodlands, alongside river corridors, and past scenic parklands. Areas like Beaver Valley, adjacent to Brandywine Creek State Park, offer beautiful, bucolic scenery. The Alpaca Ridge Unit – Brook Road Unit loop from Roxbury Railroad Station, for instance, provides a great way to experience the region's natural beauty.

Many of the major parks and trailheads in Delaware County offer designated parking areas. For instance, Ridley Creek State Park, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, and various access points along the Circuit Trails network typically provide parking facilities. It's always advisable to check specific trail access points for parking availability before your ride.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Delaware County, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, especially on shaded trails like the Chester Creek Trail, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter cycling is possible, but some trails may be less maintained or have icy patches, so check local conditions.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to serene parklands, and the opportunity to find quiet, traffic-free routes that allow for an immersive cycling experience.

Yes, advanced cyclists will find challenging options. For example, the East Platner Brook Unit – Bagley Brook Headwaters Unit loop from Town of Andes is a difficult route spanning over 100 km with significant elevation gain, perfect for those seeking a demanding ride.

Yes, Delaware County is home to a significant portion of the Circuit Trails network, which connects parks, neighborhoods, and natural areas. Trails like the Chester Creek Trail, Cobbs Creek Trail, and Radnor Trail are part of this extensive network, offering safe and sustainable options for exploring the region.

Beyond the cycling itself, Delaware County offers various attractions. Ridley Creek State Park features a colonial plantation, and Tyler Arboretum is one of the oldest and largest arboretums in the northeastern U.S. For more information on gardens, parks, and arboretums, you can visit visitdelco.com. The region also has numerous community parks like Rose Tree Park with natural beauty and amenities.