1.
Pine Creek – Pine Creek Gorge loop from Blackwell
52.3km
03:21
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
View route
The best cycling routes in Tioga State Forest
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 1, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling in Tioga State Forest, you know how quickly the sheer number of routes can become overwhelming. It's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best.
Tioga State Forest is a true gem for touring cyclists, defined by its rugged topography, dense forested hills, and the dramatic Pine Creek Gorge, often called the "Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania." You'll find everything from easy valley rides along abandoned railroad grades to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain. The good news is that the acclaimed Pine Creek Rail Trail, a major draw, is mostly paved and offers accessible paths for all skill levels.
If you only do one route, make it the Pine Creek – Pine Creek Gorge loop from Blackwell. This moderate 32.5 miles (52.3 km) route offers incredible views of the iconic gorge and is a perfect introduction to the area's beauty. For a slightly longer adventure that still hugs the gorge, the Pine Creek Gorge – Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township, at 36.8 miles (59.3 km), is another top pick. Ready to explore? More than 80 touring cyclists have already used komoot to discover Tioga State Forest's varied terrain.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pine Creek – Pine Creek Gorge loop from Blackwell | 52.3 km | 290 m | Moderate |
| Pine Creek Gorge – Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township | 59.3 km | 340 m | Moderate |
| Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township | 16.3 km | 120 m | Easy |
| Pine Creek loop from Wellsboro | 50.1 km | 240 m | Moderate |
| Hoffman Campground loop from Black Walnut Bottom | 37.3 km | 350 m | Moderate |
2.
Pine Creek Gorge – Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township
59.3km
03:48
340m
340m
The Pine Creek Gorge – Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township offers an immersive touring cycling experience through what's often called the "Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania." This moderate 36.8-mile (59.3 km) route, with 1108 feet (338 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 48 minutes to complete. You'll ride along a well-maintained, crushed stone path, enjoying continuous views of Pine Creek, dramatic rock formations, and lush forests. The gentle grade makes it accessible for most cyclists, providing a relaxing journey through a truly spectacular landscape. Keep an eye out for eagles and other wildlife along the way.
Accessing this route typically involves starting from Wellsboro, which is close to Shippen Township and offers various amenities. The trail is multi-use, so you'll share the path with hikers and occasionally horseback riders on designated parallel sections. Bike rentals and shuttle services are available from local outfitters, making logistics easier for one-way trips or specific sections. Consider visiting in spring for wildflowers or autumn for vibrant foliage, as the changing seasons dramatically enhance the views.
This trail follows the historic path of the former Jersey Shore, Pine Creek & Buffalo Railway, offering glimpses into the region's logging and railroad past through old stone mile markers and interpretive panels. It's consistently ranked as one of the premier rail trails in the United States, known for its exceptional natural beauty and gentle terrain. The route provides a unique opportunity to explore the deep gorge, with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like osprey, deer, and wild turkeys, making it a standout destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
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3.
Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township
16.3km
01:03
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.
Pine Creek loop from Wellsboro
50.1km
03:08
240m
240m
The Pine Creek loop from Wellsboro offers an exceptional touring cycling experience through the heart of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. You'll pedal along a smooth, crushed limestone path that follows a former railroad bed, winding through lush forests, past towering cliffs, and alongside the flowing Pine Creek. Keep your eyes peeled for diverse wildlife, including bald eagles and deer, as you immerse yourself in this stunning natural landscape.
This moderate 31.1-mile (50.1 km) route, with a gentle 790 feet (241 metres) of elevation gain, is typically completed in about 3 hours and 8 minutes. It's considered easy and accessible for cyclists of all ages and abilities, making it perfect for families or casual riders. Starting near Wellsboro provides a slight downhill advantage on the outbound leg, with a gentle climb on the return.
The Pine Creek Rail Trail is renowned as one of the best bike routes in the USA, offering unparalleled views from the gorge floor. Beyond the cycling, you can explore side excursions like the Turkey Path Trail for waterfall views or take advantage of local amenities, including bike rentals and shuttle services, to enhance your visit.
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5.
Hoffman Campground loop from Black Walnut Bottom
37.3km
02:30
350m
350m
The Hoffman Campground loop from Black Walnut Bottom is a fantastic touring cycling route that takes you through the heart of Pennsylvania's "Grand Canyon." You'll ride along the Pine Creek Rail Trail, a smooth, crushed limestone path that hugs the scenic Pine Creek Gorge. Expect stunning views of dramatic rock outcrops, lush forests of pine and hardwood, and the chance to spot wildlife like bald eagles and deer. This 23.2-mile (37.3 km) route with 1136 feet (346 metres) of elevation gain is a moderate ride, easily completed in about 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it ideal for a relaxed day out.
Planning your ride is straightforward, as the Pine Creek Rail Trail has many access points with parking along Routes 414 and 44. Both Black Walnut Bottom and Hoffman Campgrounds are conveniently located near the trail, offering rustic camping options. Keep in mind that Hoffman Campground is only reachable by bike, foot, or boat from designated parking areas, and permits are necessary for camping. This route is generally pleasant throughout the warmer months, with spring and fall providing particularly beautiful backdrops.
This particular touring cycling route is notable for utilizing one of the premier rail trails in the United States, celebrated for its accessibility and stunning natural beauty. The trail follows the former Jersey Shore, Pine Creek & Buffalo Railway, offering glimpses into the region's rich logging and railroad history. It's a multi-use path, popular not just for cycling but also for hiking, and its gentle, almost imperceptible downhill grade when traveling north to south ensures an easy and enjoyable experience for cyclists of all ages and abilities.
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Tips from the Community
joshuajbrock
October 13, 2025, Hoffman Campground
Great location for an overnight stay along Pine Creek. Plenty of tent sites, access to the Creek.
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Scott
September 22, 2025, Pine Creek Gorge
This is the "Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania." Here, you are actually hiking right through the canyon itself. You'll be constantly serenaded by the sound of Pine Creek and have incredible, up-close views of the water.
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oliviakellis
June 22, 2025, West Rim Trail Southern Terminus
Located near the Pine Creek Rail Trail and Ansonia, the Southern Terminus of the West Rim Trail offers a straightforward entry point into one of Pennsylvania’s most scenic long-distance hikes. There’s space for roadside parking near the trailhead on Colton Road, making it a practical spot to kick off your thru-hike. From here, the trail quickly immerses you in quiet hardwood forest before climbing toward some of the trail’s best overlooks. Make sure to fill up on water early—sources are limited in this section.
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Lars
May 9, 2023, View of Pine Creek at Darling Run
it is a beautiful atmosphere to see the canyon from below.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Tioga State Forest?
There are several touring cycling routes available in Tioga State Forest. This guide features 4 curated routes, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, to help you explore the area.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Tioga State Forest offers easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township is an easy option, covering approximately 16 km with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for a relaxed ride.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Tioga State Forest?
The terrain in Tioga State Forest varies. Many routes, especially those along the Pine Creek Rail Trail, follow abandoned railroad grades, offering relatively flat and well-maintained surfaces. Other trails and forest roads may include rolling hills, some challenging descents with loose rocks, and sections winding through forested areas, characteristic of the Appalachian Mountains.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Tioga State Forest?
Yes, several circular touring cycling routes are available. For example, you can enjoy the Pine Creek – Pine Creek Gorge loop from Blackwell or the Pine Creek Gorge – Pine Creek loop from Shippen Township, both offering scenic round trips through the forest.
What can I see along the touring cycling routes in Tioga State Forest?
Tioga State Forest is renowned for its stunning natural features. You can expect breathtaking views of the Pine Creek Gorge, often called the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.” Other highlights include pristine waterways, forested hills, and various scenic vistas. The Colton Point State Park also offers spectacular panoramic scenes.
Are dogs allowed on touring cycling routes in Tioga State Forest?
Generally, dogs are permitted on trails and in state forests in Pennsylvania, but they must be on a leash and under control at all times. Always check specific trail regulations, especially for rail trails like the Pine Creek Rail Trail, to ensure compliance.
Are e-bikes permitted on the trails in Tioga State Forest?
E-bikes are permitted on the Pine Creek Rail Trail, provided they meet specific criteria regarding weight, speed, and motor usage. For other trails and forest roads, it's advisable to check the latest regulations from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) to ensure compliance. More information can be found on the PA DCNR website.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Tioga State Forest?
Spring, summer, and fall are generally the best seasons for touring cycling in Tioga State Forest. Spring offers lush greenery, while fall provides spectacular foliage. Summer is popular but can be warm. Winter cycling is possible on some trails, but conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice.
Where can I park when visiting Tioga State Forest for cycling?
Parking areas are available at various access points along the Pine Creek Rail Trail and other popular trailheads within Tioga State Forest. These are often equipped with amenities like restrooms and bike racks. Check specific route descriptions for recommended parking locations.
Do I need any permits for touring cycling in Tioga State Forest?
For general touring cycling on designated trails and forest roads, permits are typically not required. However, if you plan to engage in primitive camping as part of a multi-day trip, specific regulations and permits may apply, especially in the Pine Creek valley. Always consult the PA DCNR website for Tioga State Forest for the most current information.
Can I plan a multi-day touring cycling trip in Tioga State Forest?
Yes, the extensive trail network and the availability of primitive camping (with some regulations) make it feasible to plan multi-day touring cycling adventures in Tioga State Forest. The 62-mile Pine Creek Rail Trail, in particular, is well-suited for longer excursions.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Tioga State Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty of the Pine Creek Gorge, the well-maintained Pine Creek Rail Trail, and the peaceful, immersive experience of cycling through the vast forest.
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