The best cycling routes in Dauphin County

The Capital Area Greenbelt Loop offers a unique touring cycling experience, often called an "emerald necklace" for how it connects Harrisburg's green spaces. You'll ride through a mix of paved, crushed stone, and gravel surfaces, enjoying scenic views of the Susquehanna River from Riverfront Park and passing through wooded areas and urban landscapes. Despite its easy rating, expect some challenging sections with noticeable hills, especially around Wildwood Park, as you cover the 19.0 miles (30.5 km) and 438 feet (134 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with multiple access points and parking options, including at City Island and Wildwood Park. The 1 hours and 54 minutes estimated duration makes it a manageable ride for most. Restroom facilities and bike repair stations are available along the route, but it's wise to carry a map alongside the existing wayfaring signs, as some on-road sections can have higher traffic.

This multi-use trail is rich in history and culture, integrating Harrisburg's past by passing monuments, museums like the National Civil War Museum, and the Governor's Mansion. It's a popular spot for the annual "Tour de Belt" community event, showcasing its role as a vital recreational and historical pathway for the region.

Cycle the easy 8.8-mile Capital Area Greenbelt Trail loop, enjoying river views, parks, and historic landmarks around Harrisburg.

Cycle the easy 3.2-mile Wildwood Park Loop, a scenic route around a lake with wildlife spotting opportunities in Harrisburg, PA.

The 9-11 Trail and Northwest River Trail Loop offers a diverse touring cycling experience, blending historical significance with natural beauty. You'll cycle along the Susquehanna River, passing through farmlands and woodlands, with notable features like the unique limestone formations of the White Cliffs of Conoy and the scenic Chickies Rock County Park. The terrain varies from smooth, crushed stone paths to unpaved segments and roadways, making it a dynamic ride.

This difficult 61.1-mile (98.3 km) route involves 1773 feet (540 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 5 hours and 47 minutes to complete. While sections of the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail are largely flat and easy, the full loop demands good fitness and a touring or hybrid bike due to its varied surfaces and climbs. Plan for a full day on the saddle, and take advantage of amenities like drinking fountains and bike repair stations found in towns along the Northwest River Trail PA.

What makes this route truly stand out is its connection to the September 11th National Memorial Trail, offering a profound journey of reflection. Beyond its historical context, the loop provides a rich tapestry of scenery, from riverfront views to historical markers and even potential Bald Eagle nest lookouts. It's a comprehensive touring cycling loop in Pennsylvania that connects significant trails and offers a unique blend of natural and cultural exploration.

If you're looking for a rewarding day on two wheels, the Susquehanna River loop via PA Bicycle Route J offers a delightful experience. This moderate 35.3-mile (56.8 km) touring cycling route, with its manageable 923 feet (281 metres) of elevation gain, guides you along the scenic Susquehanna River, providing continuous river views and a mix of natural beauty and historical points of interest. You'll enjoy mostly paved surfaces, passing through riverfronts, forests, and farmlands, making it a great option for cyclists who appreciate a picturesque journey without extreme challenges.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the route is generally accessible and can be completed in about 3 hours and 20 minutes. While specific parking access points for this loop aren't detailed, starting near Harrisburg offers convenient options. The best time to cycle the Susquehanna River PA is during spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures and stunning foliage, though summer rides are also popular. Always ensure you have sufficient water and snacks for the duration of your trip.

This loop is a fantastic way to explore the Susquehanna River Valley, known for its rich history and diverse landscapes. You'll encounter remnants of old canal locks and railroad beds, hinting at the region's past. The route often connects charming river towns, providing opportunities for breaks and exploration, and offers a different perspective compared to the Capital Area Greenbelt cycling, focusing more on the expansive river views and historical context of the wider PA Bicycle Route J.

This challenging touring cycling route takes you through picturesque Pennsylvania Dutch Country, blending the smooth, crushed stone and paved sections of the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail with more varied road surfaces. You'll pedal past untouched woodlands, expansive farms, and charming communities like Mount Gretna, with its historic architecture, and the significant Cornwall Iron Furnace. The route offers a diverse experience, from tranquil rail-trail cruising to more demanding road segments.

Planning for this difficult 73.2-mile (117.8 km) loop, which includes 1915 feet (584 metres) of elevation gain, means setting aside about 7 hours and 18 minutes for the ride. Trailheads along the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail offer convenient parking. While the rail trail itself is generally flat, the full loop's length and elevation require good fitness, and some sections may involve pushing your bike. Consider riding in the fall for stunning foliage views.

The Harrisburg to Lebanon loop follows the historic corridor of the old Cornwall-Lebanon Railroad, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past. The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail, a key part of this route, is maintained by dedicated volunteers and connects seamlessly with the Conewago Recreation Trail, providing options for extending your ride. This loop is an excellent way to explore the natural features and historical landmarks of central Pennsylvania by bike.

The Riverfront Park – Capital Area Greenbelt loop from Paxtang offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, blending urban vistas with serene natural sections. You'll glide along the Susquehanna River with views of the State Capitol complex, then transition into wooded areas like the Paxtang Parkway, experiencing a mix of paved, gravel, and crushed stone surfaces. This route provides a rich tapestry of scenery, from city waterfronts to quiet forested paths, making it a varied and engaging ride.

This easy 21.5-mile (34.5 km) loop, with a modest 270 feet (82 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete. While the Riverfront Park section is largely flat, the overall Capital Area Greenbelt terrain includes some noticeable grades, so be ready for a few gentle climbs. It's a great option for touring cyclists looking for a diverse ride without extreme challenges, offering a good balance of effort and reward.

Historically, the Capital Area Greenbelt was conceived in the early 1900s to enhance Harrisburg's livability, and it continues to be a vital recreational link today. The route connects various parks and neighborhoods, providing a unique blend of urban, natural, and historic environments. It's a popular spot, even hosting the annual "Tour de Belt" in June, highlighting its community importance and making it one of the Capital Area Greenbelt's most popular trails.

The Mud Run Equine Camping Area loop from Rowland Picnic Area offers a rugged touring cycling experience through the wild heart of Weiser State Forest. You'll navigate extensive single-track and gravel trails, winding through dense forests of oak, hemlock, and pine, with glimpses of deep valleys and mountain chains. The primitive nature of the route means you'll be immersed in a natural, wooded environment, often sharing paths with horseback riders.

This difficult 29.2-mile (47.1 km) route features a challenging 2429 feet (740 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring around 4 hours and 43 minutes to complete. Parking is available at Rowland Picnic Area. Be aware that access roads can be primitive, dirt, and gravel, and the trails themselves are unpaved and demanding, requiring good bike handling skills and a robust touring bicycle. Consider seasonal conditions, as wet weather can make the terrain even more challenging.

What makes this route notable is its unique setting within an area primarily designed for equine enthusiasts, offering a distinct blend of shared-use trails and remote solitude. It's an advanced touring cycling trail for those seeking a true off-road adventure away from paved paths, providing a different kind of trail experience within the expansive Weiser State Forest.