Smeagol (ALT Trail) – Harmony Hill Covered Bridge loop from Downingtown
Smeagol (ALT Trail) – Harmony Hill Covered Bridge loop from Downingtown
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(6318)
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Smeagol (ALT Trail) – Harmony Hill Covered Bridge loop from Downingtown
01:42
19.8km
320m
Mountain biking
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 16.7 km for 143 m
After 17.0 km for 183 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
2.42 km
Smeagol (ALT Trail)
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
9.22 km
Sugar's Bridge Nature Area
Nature Reserve
10.3 km
M. John Johnson Nature Area
Nature Reserve
11.6 km
Harmony Hill Covered Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
11.7 km
Gibson's Covered Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
18.9 km
Johnsontown Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
19.8 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
11.5 km
2.73 km
2.46 km
1.33 km
803 m
773 m
224 m
Surfaces
6.54 km
5.90 km
4.31 km
1.84 km
1.18 km
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Elevation
Highest point (160 m)
Lowest point (60 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 16 July
34°C
22°C
11 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a mountain biking route that blends natural beauty with a touch of history near Downingtown, the Smeagol (ALT Trail) – Harmony Hill Covered Bridge loop from Downingtown is definitely worth your time. This moderate 12.4-mile (20.0 km) ride packs in 1100 feet (335 metres) of elevation gain over roughly 1 hour and 42 minutes, offering a varied experience that's suitable for a range of skill levels. It's a popular choice among Downingtown mountain biking trails for its scenic diversity and the iconic covered bridge.
What to expect on Smeagol (ALT Trail) – Harmony Hill Covered Bridge loop from Downingtown
This route takes you on a journey through picturesque meadows and shaded woodlands, often alongside the East Branch of the Brandywine Creek. You'll encounter a mix of terrain, from smooth sections to dynamic singletrack, roots, and some rocky patches, especially within the Harmony Hill Nature Area. While the Smeagol (ALT Trail) itself is generally easy, the broader Harmony Hill system introduces more challenging elements like quick descents, tighter turns, and occasional log hops. The highlight for many is passing the historic Harmony Hill Covered Bridge, a charming landmark built in 1872. Overall, this Smeagol ALT Trail Harmony Hill loop mountain biking difficulty is moderate, requiring good fitness but offering options for all skill levels to enjoy.
Planning your visit
The Smeagol (ALT Trail) can get quite busy, particularly as it leads into the Harmony Hill Nature Area, so consider an earlier start if you prefer fewer crowds. For your convenience, a bike repair station and portable toilet are available at the 1200 Skelp Level Road parking area for Harmony Hill. The best time to mountain bike here is generally during spring, summer, and fall, when the trail conditions are most favorable, though autumn offers particularly beautiful scenery.
Trail details
- Distance: 12.4 miles (20.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 1100 feet (335 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 42 minutes
Comments
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