The best cycling routes around Easton

Easton offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes, largely shaped by its location at the confluence of the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers. You'll find historic canal towpaths, such as sections of the Delaware & Lehigh (D&L) Trail, alongside scenic creek-side paths like the Karl Stirner Arts Trail along Bushkill Creek. While many routes are relatively flat, some road cycling options in the surrounding areas include moderate elevation changes through hilly woodlands.

There are over 100 touring cycling routes available around Easton, catering to various skill levels. This includes approximately 18 easy routes, 74 moderate routes, and 12 more challenging options for experienced cyclists.

Yes, Easton has several easy touring cycling routes. The Karl Stirner Arts Trail, for example, is a paved, shaded pathway along Bushkill Creek, ideal for a relaxed ride. Another easy option is a route like the Hattie's Café – Lily's Lavender Hut loop from Swayfield, which covers about 15 km with minimal elevation, perfect for a leisurely outing.

For those seeking longer rides, the D&L Trail offers extensive sections. You can head south along the Delaware Canal for 50 miles to Bristol or north towards Bethlehem and Allentown. A popular longer route is the Twyford Woods to Wymondham Windmill loop, which is about 45.5 km and takes around 2 hours 45 minutes to complete, featuring varied terrain.

The terrain varies significantly. Many routes along the river and canal systems, like parts of the D&L Trail and the Karl Stirner Arts Trail, feature flat sections with surfaces ranging from asphalt to crushed stone and dirt. However, some road cycling routes in the surrounding hilly woodlands can include moderate to significant elevation changes, offering more challenging climbs.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example of a moderate circular route is the Hattie's Café – Callans Lane Wood loop from Corby Glen, which is about 40.1 km and offers a mix of landscapes with some elevation gain.

Easton's routes offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Along the Karl Stirner Arts Trail, you'll encounter over 15 contemporary art installations. The D&L Trail provides access to the National Canal Museum and Hugh Moore Park, offering insights into the region's industrial heritage. You might also pass by the Wymondham Windmill or the historic downtown Easton with its vibrant buildings and cultural sites.

The touring cycling routes around Easton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from tranquil river paths to historic towpaths, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.

Absolutely. The D&L Trail offers views of the Lehigh River and historic ruins, with opportunities for bird watching. The Mariton Wildlife Sanctuary, located near the Delaware River, features hilly woodlands and offers a river overlook trail with seasonal views from 300 feet below. The confluence of the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers itself provides picturesque waterside scenery.

Yes, several routes are family-friendly, particularly those with flatter, paved surfaces. The Karl Stirner Arts Trail is a great option, being shaded and relatively short. Shorter, easy loops like the Hattie's Café – Lily's Lavender Hut loop from Corby Glen, which is about 11.5 km, are also well-suited for families.

Many routes in Easton are rich in history and culture. The D&L Trail is a nationally significant historic transportation route, passing by the National Canal Museum. The Karl Stirner Arts Trail connects to the Simon Silk Mill and Lafayette College's arts campus, and a ride through Historic Downtown Easton allows you to explore its unique architecture and cultural attractions like the Crayola Experience.