The best cycling routes in Bedford County

Bedford County offers a diverse selection of touring cycling routes. Our guide features 9 curated routes, ranging from easy to difficult, allowing cyclists to explore the region's varied landscapes.

You can expect a mix of terrain, from scenic countryside roads with rolling hills to sections within the Allegheny Mountains. Some routes, like the Brush Tunnel – Frostburg Trailhead loop from Corriganville, feature significant elevation gain, while others, such as the Evitt's Creek Campsite loop from Cumberland, offer easier, flatter sections.

Yes, Bedford County has several easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families. For instance, the Evitt's Creek Campsite loop from Cumberland is an easy option. The Bedford Heritage Trail also provides a safe and easy route connecting the town of Bedford to the Bedford Springs Hotel.

Absolutely. Experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge will find routes with significant elevation changes. The Brush Tunnel – Frostburg Trailhead loop from Corriganville, for example, is a difficult route with over 540 meters of ascent. Another challenging option is the Big Savage Tunnel – Mason-Dixon Line Monument loop from Mount Savage.

Bedford County's routes showcase diverse natural beauty. You can cycle through picturesque Friends Cove, bordered by Tussey Mountain and Evitts Mountain, and pass by lakes such as Lake Koon, Lake Gordon, and Shawnee Lake. The region is also characterized by the Allegheny Mountains, offering scenic vistas.

Yes, Bedford County is known for its historic covered bridges. The Covered Bridge Loop, a moderately difficult 16.6-mile route, allows cyclists to visit four of the county's fourteen historic covered bridges amidst beautiful scenery. The annual 'Bike Bedford County' event also includes a Covered Bridge Cycling Tour.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Bedford County are designed as loops, offering convenient circular rides. Examples include the Rainsburg/Colerain Township Loop, the Dutch Corner Bike Loop, and the Orchard View Bike Loop. Our guide also features several loop routes like the Cove Valley Travel Plaza loop from Breezewood and the Helmstetter’s Curve – Brush Tunnel loop from Cumberland.

Yes, Bedford County features rail trails that are excellent for touring cyclists. The Huntingdon and Broad Top (H&BT) Rail Trail offers 10.6 miles of public recreational access along the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River. The Bedford Heritage Trail is another easy rail trail connecting the town of Bedford to the Bedford Springs Hotel.

The touring cycling routes in Bedford County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic landscapes, and the opportunity to explore historic towns and natural features.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Bedford County, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it may be warmer. It's always advisable to check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Many routes start from accessible locations. For example, the Dutch Corner Bike Loop begins in downtown Bedford. Shawnee State Park is also a central hub for outdoor recreation and serves as a starting point for cycling events. Specific routes in our guide, such as the Rocky Gap State Park loop from Rocky Gap State Park, indicate their starting points.

Yes, several routes in Bedford County offer opportunities for connection and extension. For instance, the Rainsburg/Colerain Township Loop connects to the Koon Lake Bike Loop for an extended ride, and the Orchard View Bike Loop can connect to the Covered Bridge loop, allowing for longer and more varied cycling experiences.