The best gravel rides around Harmony
4.5
(3)
40
riders
4
rides
Gravel biking around Harmony, Minnesota, is characterized by its unique Driftless Area landscape, a region untouched by glacial activity. This results in a distinctive topography featuring bluffs, rolling hills, and numerous springs and creeks. The area offers a mix of paved and unpaved routes, providing varied terrain for gravel cyclists. These trails often follow former railroad grades, offering relatively gentle gradients through scenic pastoral and wooded areas.
Best gravel bike trails around Harmony
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Delaware Canal State Park – Laubach Island loop from Easton, a 24.8 miles (39.9 km) trail that takes 2 hours 2 minutes to complete, offering moderate terrain along canal paths.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Gravel loop from Morgan Hill, a moderate 28.4 miles (45.7 km) path. This route provides varied gravel surfaces and rolling hills typical of the region.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Laubach Island – Delaware Canal State Park loop from Easton, a 46.5 miles (74.9 km) trail leading through riverside and park landscapes, often completed in about 4 hours 17 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Harmony is defined by its bluffs, rolling hills, and extensive trail systems, including sections of the Root River Trail. The network offers options for both moderate and more challenging ability levels.
- The routes in Harmony are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from 3 reviews. More than 40 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Harmony's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
5.0
(3)
24
riders
42.3km
02:11
110m
110m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
11
riders
45.7km
02:21
220m
220m
This Gravel loop from Morgan Hill offers a rewarding gravel biking experience, blending varied terrain with picturesque views. You'll navigate a mix of fire roads and paved sections, passing through rolling hillsides adorned with oak trees and catching sight of tranquil bodies of water like Coyote Lake. It's a moderate 28.4-mile (45.7 km) route with 703 feet (214 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete, making it a great choice for a solid half-day ride.
When planning your ride, remember that Morgan Hill is a popular gravel biking destination, so you'll find many options for starting points. The area's diverse terrain means you can tailor your experience, but for this moderate loop, expect well-maintained surfaces and manageable climbs. The best season for gravel biking here is generally spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the landscape is vibrant. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially after rain, as some fire roads can become muddy.
Morgan Hill's reputation as a cycling hub, partly due to the presence of Specialized Bicycle Components, means you're riding in an area with a rich biking heritage. This loop is just one example of the many custom routes you can create by linking various trails and parks in the region. It's an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of the Santa Clara Valley and the surrounding foothills, offering a taste of the diverse landscapes available to cyclists.
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4
riders
74.9km
04:04
350m
350m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
44.3km
02:38
540m
540m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This multi-use rail trail runs for nearly 6 miles between the boroughs of Northampton and Bath. Along the way you'll pass through numerous parks and woodlands, making for a peaceful ride.
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It's worth taking a little detour to the top of this bluff for great views over the Delaware River.
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This is all that's left of the stonework building that was once the pottery for Moravian settlers. The building later served as a cloth-making and weaving workshop, and as housing too.
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This is all that's left of the stonework building that was once the pottery for Moravian settlers. The building later served as a cloth-making and weaving workshop, and as housing too.
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This 30 mile trail is unique as it passes through several parks and meanders along Bushkill Creek. The trail is nicely paved so it's perfect for hiking, running, or biking. It has several places to stop and relax along the way.
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This 350-foot bridge, constructed in the early 1900s, spans the Lehigh River, connecting to the D&L Trail. This location is an excellent spot to enjoy views of the water and take some scenic pictures.
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This park is located at the confluence of the Delaware River and the Lehigh River. The park has several benches for observing the water, taking a break, and enjoying the waterfront views.
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This is a great place to see one of the locks of the Delaware Canal. Lock 20 was built next to a big grist mill, and can accommodate two canal boats. This part of the Delaware is known as the Narrows, where cliffs are particularly high. From here you can see out to the river and the tall red cliffs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Harmony, Minnesota?
There are 4 curated gravel bike routes around Harmony, Minnesota, offering a mix of moderate and difficult terrain to explore the unique Driftless Area landscape.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails near Harmony?
The Harmony area, situated in the 'Driftless Area,' features a distinctive landscape of bluffs, rolling hills, and quiet gravel roads. While the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail is paved, the surrounding region offers varied gravel terrain, from gentle stretches to more challenging sections with steep grades and winding curves.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly gravel routes in Harmony?
While the current selection of routes includes moderate and difficult options, the broader Root River Trail System, accessible from Harmony, offers over 60 miles of paved trails that are generally suitable for a more relaxed ride. For gravel, routes like Delaware Canal State Park – Laubach Island loop from Easton are rated moderate and can be a good starting point for those comfortable with some elevation.
What are some challenging gravel bike routes around Harmony?
For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, routes such as Shick Road: Peaceful Gravel Descent – Delaware Canal State Park loop from Upper Stewartsville and Bixlers Bluff – Delaware Canal State Park loop from Easton offer significant elevation gains and longer distances, providing a demanding ride through the region's varied topography.
Are there any loop trails for gravel biking near Harmony?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include Gravel loop from Morgan Hill, which covers over 45 km, and Laubach Island – Delaware Canal State Park loop from Easton, a longer option at nearly 75 km.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Harmony, Minnesota?
Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the best conditions for gravel biking in Harmony. The region experiences distinct seasons, with vibrant foliage in autumn and lush greenery in spring and summer. Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out, especially after heavy rain, as gravel roads can become muddy.
What attractions or points of interest can I find near the gravel trails in Harmony?
Harmony is rich in natural and cultural attractions. You can explore the Harmony Karst Interpretive Site near the Visitor Center to learn about the unique geology. A short distance away is Niagara Cave, featuring an underground waterfall and ancient fossils. The area is also home to Minnesota's largest Old Order Amish community, offering cultural tours and handmade goods. While specific routes may not pass directly by all attractions, they are easily accessible from Harmony.
Is parking available for gravel bike trails in Harmony?
Yes, parking is generally available. The Harmony Visitor Center serves as a hub for tourists and is located at the trailhead for the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail, offering convenient access and parking for cyclists looking to explore the area's trails.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about riding in Harmony?
The komoot community rates the gravel biking experience in Harmony highly, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Riders often praise the quiet roads, the scenic beauty of the Driftless Area with its rolling hills and bluffs, and the diverse terrain that offers both challenging climbs and enjoyable descents.
Are there any cafes or places to refuel along the gravel routes near Harmony?
Harmony itself offers local amenities where you can find cafes and places to refuel. While specific gravel routes may venture into more rural areas, planning your ride to pass through Harmony or nearby towns will ensure access to food and drink options. It's always advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer rides.
What makes Harmony, Minnesota, a unique destination for gravel biking?
Harmony's location in the 'Driftless Area' sets it apart. This region, untouched by glaciers, boasts a distinctive landscape of bluffs, valleys, and karst features like sinkholes and caves. This geological history creates a varied and scenic backdrop for gravel biking, offering a different experience compared to flatter, glaciated regions.
Most popular routes around Harmony
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