The best cycling routes in Sullivan County

The Tamarack Run Natural Area gravel loop offers a truly immersive touring cycling experience through the rugged beauty of Loyalsock State Forest. This difficult 19.2-mile (31.0 km) route is characterized by its challenging gravel and unpaved segments, winding through extensive hardwood forests and past the unique boreal conifer wetland of the Tamarack Run Natural Area itself. You'll also encounter the serene Sones Pond, an artificial lake built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and have the chance to cool off at a Loyalsock Creek swim spot, making for a scenic and varied journey.

Planning your ride on this route requires very good fitness, as it includes 1675 feet (510 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 2 hours and 48 minutes. This is not a trail for beginner gravel cyclists or families, as some sections may even require pushing your bike. The demanding terrain means you should come prepared for a rigorous workout, but the stunning natural attractions make the effort worthwhile.

Beyond its physical demands, the Tamarack Run Natural Area gravel loop is notable for traversing a unique 234-acre natural area, home to rare tamarack trees and endangered plant species. The route also includes the Loyalsock Road and Rock Run Road Gravel Grind, a section celebrated by experienced riders despite its challenging hills. This loop provides a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of Pennsylvania and offers connections to several other trails within the Loyalsock State Forest for those seeking extended adventures.

The Loyalsock and Canyon Vista Trails Loop offers a truly wild touring cycling experience through Pennsylvania's rugged Loyalsock State Forest. Expect to navigate extensive hardwood forests, encounter unique rock formations, and enjoy panoramic views of the Loyalsock Canyon from viewpoints like the Loyalsock Canyon Vista. You'll also find yourself riding alongside the pristine Loyalsock Creek, complete with rapids and cliffs, making for a visually rich and varied journey.

Planning your visit requires acknowledging the challenging nature of this route. It's a demanding 8.2-mile (13.2 km) loop with 830 feet (253 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 9 minutes. This moderate route is best for experienced cyclists with robust bikes, as you'll encounter unpaved, steep sections that may require pushing your bike. The vibrant fall foliage in October and the June mountain laurel bloom offer the most spectacular scenery.

This loop stands out for its raw, untamed beauty, featuring natural wonders like chasms, boulder arches, and several waterfalls along Cold Run and Ketchum Run. While some cycling routes in the Loyalsock State Forest are more accessible, this specific loop is a test of endurance and skill, offering a deep dive into the wilderness for those seeking an advanced touring cycling adventure rather than a casual ride.

The Coal Mine Road gravel loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through the wild woodlands of Loyalsock State Forest. You'll glide along a mostly unpaved, well-maintained gravel and dirt surface, passing through stunning pine forests where sunlight often filters through the canopy, creating a serene atmosphere. This easy 5.1-mile (8.3 km) loop, with just 333 feet (101 metres) of gentle climbing, is a perfect, quick outing that takes around 48 minutes to complete.

Accessing the route is simple, with several convenient pull-offs for parking directly along Coal Mine Road. The trail is enjoyable in most seasons, but consider visiting in spring or fall for the most comfortable temperatures and vibrant natural colors. This family-friendly bike route is ideal for anyone seeking a relaxed ride without technical challenges.

Located in Pennsylvania's

A difficult 23.7-mile touring cycling loop in Ricketts Glen State Park, featuring mixed terrain and 1734 feet of elevation gain.

The Canyon Vista Trail Loop in Worlds End State Park offers a truly rugged experience, despite its listing as a moderate 8.7 miles (14.1 km) touring bicycle route. Expect to navigate steep, rocky sections, including a maze of lichen-encrusted rocks and boulders, and significant inclines that will get your heart pumping. The trail rewards your effort with spectacular scenery, most notably the sweeping panoramic views of the Loyalsock Creek gorge from the Canyon Vista overlook.

This route is best suited for hikers with sturdy footwear, not touring cyclists, due to its challenging terrain. The estimated duration for the listed touring bicycle route is 1 hour and 28 minutes, with 983 feet (299 metres) of elevation gain. For hikers, plan for a significantly longer and more strenuous outing. The trail is particularly beautiful during the June mountain laurel bloom and the vibrant fall foliage in October.

Beyond the main vista, the trail winds through a diverse forest featuring interesting rock formations like the "Rock Garden" and a boulder arch. It's part of a larger network in Worlds End State Park, providing access to other trails like the Loyalsock Trail. The Canyon Vista itself, at 1750 feet, offers one of the best vantage points in the Endless Mountains region.

The High Knob and Hunters Lake and Eagles Mere Lake loop offers a challenging touring cycling adventure through the scenic Endless Mountains. You'll pedal through dense woodlands, past the serene Hunters Lake, and along the picturesque Eagles Mere Lake, with the ultimate reward being the panoramic vista from High Knob Overlook, showcasing views over seven counties. This difficult 28.5-mile (45.8 km) route, with its 2304 feet (702 metres) of elevation gain, is designed for cyclists with a very good level of fitness.

Plan for a roughly 4-hour and 8-minute ride, keeping in mind that some unpaved and natural sections may require you to dismount and push your bike. A sturdy gravel bike or mountain bike is highly recommended for the varied terrain. The autumn foliage season provides particularly striking views from High Knob, making it an excellent time to experience this demanding route.

Beyond the physical challenge and natural beauty, the route passes through Loyalsock State Forest, a diverse natural habitat. You'll also encounter Eagles Mere, a National Historic District, and Hunters Lake, which holds historical significance with archaeological evidence dating back millennia. This loop is a true hidden gem among cycling routes in Sullivan County, Pennsylvania, for those seeking a rewarding and visually rich experience.

Moderate 7.5-mile gravel ride in Ricketts Glen State Park to Big Run and Sullivan Falls, featuring waterfalls and serene forest paths.

Embark on the Forksville to Eagles Mere loop for a truly immersive touring bicycle experience through the rugged beauty of north-central Pennsylvania. This difficult route winds through dense woodlands and offers picturesque views of Loyalsock Creek, culminating in expansive vistas from High Knob that stretch across seven counties. You'll encounter varied terrain, including significant unpaved gravel sections and demanding climbs, making it a rewarding challenge for well-prepared cyclists.

Planning your ride requires acknowledging the route's strenuous nature; while the estimated moving time is 2 hours and 42 minutes, you should allocate 4 to 6 hours or more to fully enjoy the journey. The 25.5-mile (41.1 km) loop features 2051 feet (625 metres) of elevation gain, including a challenging 1.5-mile section at a 9% grade. Spring, with its blooming mountain laurels, and autumn, with its spectacular fall foliage, are ideal times to tackle this ride.

This challenging bike route is a highlight for touring cycling in the Forksville Eagles Mere area, showcasing the region's natural and historical gems. You'll pass by the historic Forksville Covered Bridge, one of Pennsylvania's few remaining covered bridges still carrying auto traffic. While Eagles Mere Lake is private, its presence adds to the scenic backdrop, and nearby Worlds End State Park offers additional points of interest for cooling down after your ride.

Cycle the Ricketts Glen gravel loop, a difficult 38.4-mile route with 2967 feet of elevation gain through scenic Pennsylvania forests.