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The Arboretum at Penn State – Spring Creek Trail loop from State College

The Arboretum at Penn State – Spring Creek Trail loop from State College

Moderate

3.4

(23)

riders

The Arboretum at Penn State – Spring Creek Trail loop from State College

02:31

44.6km

390m

Gravel riding

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: May 1, 2026

Tips

Temporary access restrictions

Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.

After 406 m for 148 m

Customers only

After 44.1 km for 148 m

Customers only

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

1.71 km

The Arboretum at Penn State

Highlight • Natural

The Arboretum at Penn State is a wonderful place to immerse yourself in nature. The gardens are beautiful kept and change throughout the seasons, so there is always something new …

Tip by

12.3 km

Spring Creek is a 25-mile creek that is a tributary to Bald Eagle Creek. Spring Creek has sections of Class I whitewater rapids for about three miles, when water is high, from Bellefonte to Milesburg.

Tip by

14.0 km

Spring Creek Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Beginner ride. A little over 2 miles out and then back. Would have liked to have gone further but it was marked “No trespassing.“ Looking later at the map I …

Tip by

44.6 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

25.9 km

10.2 km

3.03 km

2.96 km

2.07 km

355 m

194 m

Surfaces

26.3 km

9.93 km

8.39 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (380 m)

Lowest point (240 m)

Weather

Friday 26 June

25°C

15°C

-- %

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Description

If you're looking for a diverse gravel biking experience right on the doorstep of State College, The Arboretum at Penn State – Spring Creek Trail loop delivers. This moderate gravel biking route spans 27.7 miles (44.6 km) with 1279 feet (390 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 31 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for riders seeking varied off-road terrain without venturing far from town, offering a convenient escape into nature.

What to expect on The Arboretum at Penn State – Spring Creek Trail loop from State College

This loop takes you on a journey through varied landscapes, starting with the cultivated beauty of The Arboretum at Penn State before diving into the natural tranquility of Spring Creek Canyon. You'll encounter a mix of hard-packed gravel, dirt roads, and doubletrack, with some sections along Spring Creek Canyon featuring rough technical gravel. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and other waterfowl as you ride alongside the creek, and notice the interesting geological features like fossils in the Ordovician-era limestone. While much of the route is an easy pedal, be prepared for some steep hills and big climbs, particularly on roads like Rock Road and Barns Lane, which can include ascents with a 10% grade. This ride is best suited for those with good fitness who appreciate a blend of natural beauty and challenging sections.

Planning your visit

The route's proximity to downtown State College and Penn State University makes it incredibly accessible for a quick escape. While specific parking details aren't noted, its urban-adjacent location means you'll find convenient access points. There are no mentions of permits or seasonal closures, suggesting it's generally open for exploration. Consider starting your ride earlier in the day to fully enjoy the quiet haven of Spring Creek Canyon.