The best road cycling routes around Clarks Summit

There are over 40 road cycling routes available around Clarks Summit. These routes cater to various skill levels, with a good mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options to explore the region's diverse terrain.

Road cycling routes around Clarks Summit feature a landscape of rolling hills, forests, and lakes. You'll find varied terrain, from smooth, well-paved roads to dedicated recreational paths like the Trolley Trail. Routes can range from gentle gradients to significant climbs, with some challenging options featuring over 900 meters (around 2,952 feet) of elevation gain.

Yes, Clarks Summit offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Gateway Preserve loop from South Abington Township, which is 13.7 miles (22.1 km) long with well-paved surfaces and moderate elevation changes, making it suitable for any fitness level.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Clarks Summit area provides demanding routes with significant elevation. The View of the Lackawanna River – Lackawanna Mountain loop from Holiday Inn Express & Suites is a difficult 42.3 miles (68.0 km) trail with over 900 meters of climbing, offering a substantial workout and varied terrain.

The region is rich in natural beauty, offering picturesque landscapes including lakes, forests, and rolling hills. Many routes provide scenic views of the countryside, tranquil lakes, and forested areas. You can also find quiet rides on smooth stretches of tarmac like West Abington Road, which passes a tranquil lake amidst agricultural buildings.

Yes, several routes pass by or are near interesting landmarks. For instance, the Gateway Preserve loop from South Abington Township is named after the Gateway Preserve itself. You might also encounter parts of West Abington Road, known for its peaceful countryside views.

Yes, a notable dedicated path is the Trolley Trail, a non-motorized recreational path that follows an old railbed. It offers a smooth gravel and earthen surface with a gentle grade, ideal for scenic and less challenging rides, connecting Clarks Summit to Dalton, La Plume, and Factoryville.

The best time for road cycling in Clarks Summit is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. The region experiences distinct seasons, with vibrant foliage in autumn and lush greenery in spring and summer, enhancing the cycling experience.

Yes, many road cycling routes around Clarks Summit are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Mack Lake – Corby Swamp loop from Newton-Ransom Elementary School and the Lackawanna Lake loop from Throop, both offering scenic circular rides.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from rolling hills to peaceful lakes and forested areas, and the variety of routes that cater to different ability levels, from easy loops to challenging climbs.

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, routes like the Lackawanna River – Lackawanna River loop from Lackawanna County offer distances of over 60 kilometers (approximately 37 miles), providing extended opportunities to explore the region's landscapes.