The best gravel rides around Weissport East

The gravel bike trails in the Weissport East area primarily follow the historic Delaware & Lehigh (D&L) Trail and the Lehigh Canal towpath. You can expect surfaces of crushed stone and hard-packed dirt, which are ideal for gravel bikes. These paths often utilize former railroad beds and canal towpaths, offering a smooth yet adventurous ride.

Yes, several circular routes are available. For example, the Bridge view – Abandoned Coal Tunnel loop from Jim Thorpe offers a substantial ride, or consider the D&L Trail – Views of the Lehigh River loop from Lehigh Gap for a different perspective.

The trails offer continuous views of the Lehigh River and run alongside the historic Lehigh Canal, where you can spot old locks and spillways. You'll also pass through lush forested mountain slopes and abundant wetlands. Keep an eye out for the Views of the Lehigh River and the Lehigh Gap Wildlife Refuge.

Absolutely. The D&L Trail itself is a historical landmark, utilizing 200-year-old transportation routes. You can find remnants of lock tender's houses and other historical buildings along the canal. The Abandoned Coal Tunnel is another unique historical feature you might encounter, and the nearby town of Jim Thorpe, accessible via the D&L Trail, offers further historical exploration including a remnant of the Switchback Trail.

The region's natural beauty, with its forested slopes and river views, makes spring and autumn particularly appealing for gravel biking. The crushed stone and hard-packed dirt surfaces are generally well-maintained, making them suitable for riding across various seasons, though checking local weather conditions is always recommended.

The D&L Trail, particularly the section between Jim Thorpe and Weissport, is relatively flat and secluded, making it a good option for families. The crushed stone surface is stable, and the scenic views provide an enjoyable experience for all skill levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the scenic views of the Lehigh River and canal, the historical elements along the D&L Trail, and the well-maintained, gravel-friendly surfaces that make for an enjoyable ride.

Lehigh Canal Park in Weissport serves as an official trailhead and provides convenient parking for trail users. This park offers direct access to sections of the D&L Trail, both north towards Jim Thorpe and south towards the Weissport – Marvin Gardens section.

The D&L Trail itself spans over 140 miles. Specific routes in the area vary in length. For instance, the Bridge view – Abandoned Coal Tunnel loop from Palmerton is over 50 kilometers, while the Views of the Lehigh River – Bridge view loop from Lehighton is around 25 kilometers, offering options for different ride durations.

While many sections of the D&L Trail are relatively flat, the routes featured in this guide are all rated as 'moderate' difficulty. They often include longer distances and some elevation gain, such as the Bridge view – Abandoned Coal Tunnel loop from Jim Thorpe which has over 300 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout for gravel cyclists.