The best cycling routes around Buskhill
4.5
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566
riders
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Touring cycling routes around Bushkill are set within the Pocono Mountains, characterized by varied terrain including wooded ravines, river valleys, and rolling hills. The region is known for its natural features, such as the Delaware Water Gap and the Delaware River, which provide scenic backdrops for cycling. Elevations are generally moderate, with some routes offering gradual climbs.
Best touring cycling routes around Bushkill
- The most popular touring cycling route is Newry to 'The Old Oak' Kilbroney Park loop, a…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
2
riders
39.6km
02:26
380m
380m
Cycle the moderate 24.6-mile Newry to 'The Old Oak' Kilbroney Park loop, a touring bicycle route offering scenic views and challenging terra
107km
06:54
1,290m
1,290m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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76.8km
04:55
790m
790m
This difficult 47.7-mile touring cycling loop from Scarva to Castlewellan Forest Park offers challenging climbs and scenic Mourne views.
57.1km
03:36
620m
620m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(12)
97
riders
51.7km
02:56
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Quiet canal section south of Poyntzpass, where the towpath runs tightly along the narrow water. The bank is lightly overgrown with low trees and hedges, giving the stretch an intimate, green impression. The water is mostly still, forming a straight line through the open agricultural landscape. An even, traffic-free segment ideal for quiet miles on the towpath.
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The Newry Canal Towpath is a 32-kilometer-long, almost entirely traffic-free green corridor connecting the towns of Portadown and Newry. It follows the towpath of the oldest canal in the British Isles, opened in 1742 to transport coal from County Tyrone to the sea. The Newry Canal Towpath offers an unparalleled cycling experience through the tranquil heart of County Armagh and County Down. This historic route, part of the National Cycle Network Route 9, takes you along a flat and largely asphalted path past fourteen monumental locks and characteristic lock-keeper's cottages. As you follow the waterway, you'll traverse a varied landscape of dense forests and open meadows, passing through welcoming villages like Scarva and Poyntzpass along the way. The path is a haven for wildlife; keep an eye out for kingfishers, swans, and otters that inhabit the reed beds. Whether you cycle the full 32 kilometers or explore just a section, the combination of industrial history and natural beauty makes this one of the absolute gems of Irish cycling routes.
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Added to the collection: komoot.com/de-de/collection/3600632/-naturdenkmaeler-besondere-baeume-und-weitere-schaetze-der-natur
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Silent Valley Reservoir, nestled in the Mourne Mountains, is a peaceful retreat surrounded by sweeping granite peaks and heathered slopes. Built in the early 20th century to supply water to Belfast and much of County Down, the reservoir combines striking engineering with natural beauty. Visitors can stroll along well-kept paths, admire the Victorian-style dam and impressive Mourne Wall, or simply enjoy the quiet atmosphere by the lakeshore.
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Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
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The well-maintained trails take you through impressive scenery, surrounded by the striking peaks of the Mournes. The view of the Mourne Wall, which stretches for 35 kilometers and connects 15 peaks, is particularly impressive. However, some sections can become slippery in wet weather, so caution is advised. A highlight is a visit to Ben Crom Reservoir, which can be reached via an extension of the route. Note that there is a fee to enter the park.
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The gently ascending road winds through a wide, open landscape, surrounded by grassy hills and breathtaking silence. Only the wind and the quiet hum of the tires accompany you here as your gaze wanders into the distance. The climb may be challenging, but the view that opens up with every meter of altitude is worth the effort. Once at the top, you feel free and rewarded, as if you have conquered a piece of nature and then the reward comes with the descent.
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This impressive tree, which has stood here for centuries, is a testament to the region's rich natural history. The paths leading there lead through dense forest and offer a pleasant ride away from traffic. However, some sections are slippery in wet weather, so care should be taken. A particular highlight is the proximity to the Cloughmore Stone, a huge boulder that was transported here during the last Ice Age.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Bushkill?
There are over 50 touring cycling routes around Bushkill listed on komoot, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find everything from easy, flat paths to challenging rides with significant elevation changes.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Bushkill offers several easy touring cycling routes. The Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Lurganare is a great option, covering 51.4 km with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxed ride. The McDade Recreational Trail within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area also has sections that are smooth and flat, perfect for families.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes in the Bushkill area?
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Newry to Castlewellan loop offer significant elevation changes over its 106.8 km distance. Another difficult option is the Scarva to Castlewellan Forest Park loop, which spans 76.8 km with nearly 800 meters of climbing.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Bushkill?
Many of the touring cycling routes around Bushkill are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Newry to 'The Old Oak' Kilbroney Park loop and the Scarva to Newry loop, providing convenient options for your ride.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Bushkill?
The terrain around Bushkill is varied, featuring river valleys, forested areas, and rolling hills. While some routes, like sections of the McDade Recreational Trail, are packed gravel and relatively flat, others involve gradual climbs and descents through the Pocono Mountains. You'll find a mix of paved roads and well-maintained gravel paths.
What are the best times of year for touring cycling in Bushkill?
The spring, summer, and especially autumn months are ideal for touring cycling in Bushkill. Spring brings lush greenery, while summer offers warm weather. Autumn is particularly popular for its vibrant fall foliage, creating picturesque scenery along the routes. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear due to colder temperatures and potential snow.
What attractions or scenic viewpoints can I see along the cycling routes?
Many routes offer scenic views of the Delaware River and the surrounding Pocono Mountains. Along the Newry Canal Towpath, you can enjoy tranquil canal-side scenery. Other notable points of interest include Scarva Village, the impressive Craigmore Viaduct, and the Lock Keeper's Cottage Ruins, offering glimpses into the region's history and natural beauty.
Is Bushkill Falls accessible by touring bicycle?
Bushkill Falls is primarily a hiking destination known for its stunning waterfalls and trails. While its location provides excellent access to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, the falls themselves are best explored on foot. Cycling routes in the area will lead you to the general vicinity, but you'll need to park your bike to experience the falls.
Are there options for public transport or shuttle services for cyclists?
Yes, for routes within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, such as the McDade Recreational Trail, shuttle services like the River Runner are available through partnerships with the Monroe County Transit Authority. These services can facilitate longer one-way trips, allowing you to cycle a section and be transported back to your starting point or vehicle. For detailed information, it's best to check the official NPS website for biking in the Delaware Water Gap.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Bushkill?
Parking is generally available at various trailheads, especially along the McDade Recreational Trail within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. These trailheads are conveniently spaced, allowing for rides of varying lengths. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot or the NPS website for the McDade Trail for designated parking areas.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Bushkill?
The touring cycling routes in Bushkill are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic beauty, the variety of terrain, and the well-maintained paths, particularly along the river valleys and through forested areas.
Are e-bikes permitted on the cycling trails?
Yes, e-bikes are generally permitted on trails like the McDade Recreational Trail within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, but with a speed restriction of 15 miles per hour. Always check local regulations for specific trails you plan to ride.
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