Coolest Mountain Biking Trails in PA
In case you are a keen spinner that has never tried cycling in the Great Outdoors, we definitely recommend heading for Pennsylvania for an über-cool mountain biking experience. Why head out into verdant terrain to maximize your workout? Here are just a few of the many reasons.
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The Coolest Mountain Biking Trails in Pennsylvania
It has been proven that exercise in natural surrounds burns more calories owing to the changes in terrain and natural challenges provided by the landscape; outdoor exercises sends levels of dangerous stress hormones like cortisol plummeting; studies have shown that people naturally find exercise in the Great Outdoors more enjoyable and satisfying; finally, cycling on your own time, at your own pace is much cheaper than a fancy gym membership. With a minimal investment for your bike, insurance, and a select range of equipment, you can take your workout with you wherever you go. If a trip to Pennsylvania is in the works, we hereby suggest some top trails and parks which are a true mountain biker’s dream:
Allegrippis Trail
The Allegrippis Trail System at Lake Raystown: Whether you are a seasoned biker or a keen beginner, you will find your match at the intricate network of trails which make up the Allegrippis Trail System, designed by the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) as dual-directional trails that are open every single day of the year to non-motorized vehicles. Built on the hills surrounding the serene Lake Raystown (Pennsylvania’s largest lake), the trails offer a uniquely beautiful view and comprise 33 miles of smooth yet adventurous riding. The network of rails is made up of three large loops: A, B and C; each has an easy, moderate and difficult trail, depending on elevation, tread and emergency access. Some of the most beautiful wildlife you may encounter in these trails include black bears, pheasants, deer, turkeys and reptiles and frogs.
Nockamixon State Park
Nockamixon State Park: This beautiful park has a single track trail, and is ideal for beginner and intermediate riders. An exciting eight-mile loop will take you through a verdant cedar forest, a rock garden, bustling streams, challenging stumps and fun zig zags which are manageable even for absolute beginners. If you are up for a swim, make a full day out of it; the lake is pristine and a revered destination for families in the summer time, kayaks can be rented at a cheap price and green areas are peppered with picnic tables, so you can end a tough workout with a hearty packed lunch overlooking the beautiful boats docked at the marina.
Moraine State Park
Moraine State Park: This stately park has a seven-mile bike trails, which runs along its North shore. The ride is serene and achievable even for those who are new to the sport of mountain biking, who delight in the tranquillity of the lush tree area which embraces Arthur. The trail is not a loop and does have steep grades and curves, so although it can be attempted by kids, they should probably opt for easier trails unless they have quite a good fitness level.
If you don’t have your own bike with you, fear not; there is a bike rental store in the Northwest point of the park. Bikes can be rented on weekdays, weekends and holidays between 11am and 7pm. Tandem bikes are available for rent, as are children’s seats and trailers, so adults can enjoy a fun ride even if they are travelling with smaller children.
Moraine State Park is a must for any Nature lover visiting Pennsylvania, its rolling hills, lush forests and tranquil waters attracting visits from over one million people a year. The tranquil Lake Arthur has a 42-mile shoreline and is home to stunning warm water fish, turtles and a bevy of other animals. Bald eagles and osprey can also been seen; check out the waterfowl observation deck on the old Route 422.
Blue Knob State Park
Blue Knob State Park: Over 6,128 acres of woodland, ensconced in the northwestern tip of Bedford County, make up Blue Knob State Park, a revered family destination featuring hiking, horseback riding, swimming, camping etc., in addition to mountain biking. The park has a plethora of multi-use trails, including Chappells Field Trail (for beginners) and Three Springs Trail (for intermediate riders). Expert mountain bikers will enjoy a rough and rocky terrain at Crist Ridge Trail, Roc ‘n Ridge Trail and portions of Mountain View Trail.
Do You Mountain Bike? If So, What Are Your Favorite Trails?
What a wonderful post. Biking is one of our favorite family activities and these trails look gorgeous.
I love this list! I have bookmarked it to come back later. being from PA, I am always looking for new trails and fun places to visit for Day trips!
Bike trails are amazing. So are walking trails getting to see nature is so relaxing.
I love this! I am pinning because we are big into biking, and when we travel through PA I’m sure we will love to bike on these trails!
Thanks a bunch! I am so glad that you enjoyed this article and I hope you find it helpful. 🙂
We are going to PA this summer, but I don’t think we are taking our bikes. Good to know, though, in case we do.
I don’t bike but it is something that I would like to take up. I think biking is a very beautiful way to spend time outdoors.
I was thinking of getting a mountain bike. I don’t live in PA but my parents live right near the border so these awesome trail are doable for me.
I’m a novice, but my husband is a bug biker. We are hitting PA soon so thanks!
These are all interesting facts about getting exercise in a natural surrounding. Great choices for the trails
If we had a trail as beautiful as the one in your pictures, I might actually go for a bike ride! So inspiring!
I will have to see if my son-in-law has been here He rides trails all over.
We used to ride our bikes all the tie as a family. But now my little one wants to ride by herself and we can’t go too far.
I love biking trails. We have a loooovely one behind our home here in Florida.
Riding a bike outside on a great trail with a wonderful green view is such a treat. It was great of you to share the best trails iin Pennsylvania so that bikers new and old can go check them out.
I’ve never been to Pennslyvania (only driven through it) but its a gorgeous state. I bet these are fantastic trails!
These all sound like great trials. I believe I haven’t road a bike since I was a kid though.
This is a great list for those who love biking. Can you believe that I can’t ride a bike, so I guess I would have to hike these trails instead.
Aww there are so many great ones! Looks so much fun and also relaxing and beautiful to spend time at any of them.
I don’t love bike riding, but those trails are so beautiful, it makes me want to go for a ride!
Beautiful trails. Looks like a perfect way to enjoy a weekend afternoon.
I dont mountain bike,,,I dont bike at all lmao! But there is a really cool trail called the silver comet trail for bikes and workout trails neat me!
Add the heritage rail trail in York PA it goes from center city york down to the Maryland line and it is gorgeous too! Enjoy! I will be trying the ones you suggested also!