The best cycling routes around Allentown

There are nearly 40 touring cycling routes around Allentown, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 16 easy routes, 18 moderate routes, and 5 more challenging options, catering to various skill levels.

The Allentown area, situated in the Lehigh Valley, offers a mix of natural beauty. You'll encounter river valleys, woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. The region is defined by features like the Kittatinny Ridge (Blue Mountain) to the north, the Delaware River to the east, and the PA Highlands and South Mountain to the south, providing varied topography along your rides.

Yes, Allentown offers several easy, family-friendly routes. The Ruins of pottery building loop from Allentown is a gentle 12.8-mile path, perfect for a relaxed outing. Another great option is the Jordan Creek Parkway loop from Lehigh Valley Mall, which is 6.6 miles and leads through the scenic Jordan Creek Parkway. The Ironton Rail Trail is also known as a popular family-friendly route with minimal elevation gain.

Beginners will find many suitable options among the 16 easy routes available. Consider the Nice bridge with trail by river loop from Lehigh Valley Hospital, a 14 km route that offers a pleasant ride along the river. The Lehigh Parkway also provides multi-use trails that are generally flat and easy to navigate.

For longer rides, a significant portion of the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor (D&L Trail) passes through the Lehigh Valley, offering 48 miles of its 165-mile length. While not a single route, it provides extensive opportunities for long-distance touring. The Delaware Canal State Park – Delaware Canal State Park loop from Bethlehem is also a substantial 26.8-mile route following a historic canal path.

Many routes offer access to interesting landmarks and natural features. Along the Lehigh Parkway, you can see the Stone Bridges of Lehigh Parkway and visit the Little Lehigh Fish Hatchery. The Jordan Creek Parkway features historic covered bridges. The Trexler Nature Preserve, accessible from some routes, offers views of the Lehigh Valley Zoo and is home to elk and bison. You might also pass by the historic Bethlehem Steel Plant.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Allentown are loops. For example, the popular Delaware Canal State Park – Delaware Canal State Park loop from Bethlehem is a 26.8-mile circular route. Another option is the Lehigh Mountain Park loop from Bethlehem, which covers 14.7 km.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 38 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from flat river paths to routes with moderate climbs, and the extensive network of greenways and parklands that connect urban areas with natural landscapes. Over 300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Allentown's varied terrain.

While many routes are easy to moderate, there are 5 routes classified as difficult for those seeking a challenge. The Blue Mountain Loop, a road route, is known for its 24 miles and significant elevation changes. The South Mountain Wildlands Preserve also offers technical mountain bike trails and challenging routes with rugged climbs, though these are more geared towards mountain biking.

Allentown's diverse landscapes are enjoyable throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn offers vibrant fall foliage, making these seasons particularly scenic for cycling. Summer is also popular, but it's advisable to ride earlier or later in the day to avoid peak heat.

Allentown boasts excellent cycling infrastructure in several parks and areas. Lehigh Parkway and Jordan Creek Parkway are central to the city's appeal, offering multi-use trails. The Ironton Rail Trail is also well-regarded for its accessible surfaces. The city is actively working to expand its network of bike lanes and trails, enhancing connectivity across the region.

Yes, some routes provide excellent viewpoints. The Trexler Nature Preserve, for instance, features trails with views overlooking the Lehigh Valley Zoo. Additionally, the South Mountain Wildlands Preserve offers an incredible overlook of Emmaus and Allentown, providing panoramic vistas of the region.