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United States
Pennsylvania
Westmoreland County

Smithton

The best cycling routes around Smithton

4.9

(27)

360

riders

10

rides

Touring cycling around Smithton offers diverse terrain, from coastal areas to rolling farmlands. The region features a mix of landscapes, including river valleys and areas with varied elevation. Cyclists can find routes that traverse different natural settings, providing a range of experiences.

Best touring cycling routes around Smithton

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Red Waterfall – Homestead Pump House loop from West Newton, a 106.5 miles (171.4 km) trail that takes 10 hours 56 minutes to complete.…

Last updated: May 21, 2026

5.0

(5)

135

riders

#1.

Red Waterfall – Homestead Pump House loop from West Newton

171km

10:57

1,100m

1,100m

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

5.0

(3)

67

riders

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

5.0

(6)

29

riders

32.5km

02:05

160m

160m

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

4.8

(4)

16

riders

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Smithton

Hiking around Smithton

Gravel biking around Smithton

Tips from the Community

Dylan Sacco
June 10, 2025, Red Waterfall

This is a good place to take a break on a hot day, as the waterfall produces cold wind. DO NOT DRINK this water, It is from an acid mine and the red-orange color comes from iron and rust.

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S THE WATERFALL Demonstrating acid mnine drainage The water here is acid and iron-rich, coming up to the surface from underground mines, stairung the-rocks ruspred. Acid mine drainage (AMID) is a major source of water pollution. Cause of extensive stream environmental damage. The Ocean Coal Company, a subsidiaries of Bevind- White Coal Company Philadelphia, PA, esaiblished several mines in this region including, in 1900, Ocean No. 2. It is purported that drainage from ocean No. 2 is the chief cause of the Red Waterfall Why is it acidic and full of iron? Hundreds of millions of years ago, the massive Pittsburgh Coal Seam formed underneath parts of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohiờ from ancient swamp plants. Sand, silts, shells, and other -matter were deposited and made a rock seal over the carbon-rich vegetation, This rock contained the mineral "pyrite," made of iron and sulfur Coal mining exposes pyrite to oxygen and ground water causing the formation of sulfuric acid and a number of red, orange, and yellow compound s. AMD occurs when this mine water seeps, or in this-case, bursts out into Streams. The yellow sulfur can be seen in the shale near coal seams. GRESCHIN DASSAGE SPONSORED BY: Southwestern PA Heritage Breservation- Commission Allegheny Trail Alliances Regional Trail Corpofation For moterinformation. www.gaptrail.org

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its just a cemetery. i was riding for distance. and needed this place to keep the route on the GAP trail.

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Gravel Path. Very flat. There as also many resting points and cities along the way.

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The Cedar Creek Hiker-Biker Campground is one of several campsites free to GAP users. At this one, there is a grassy area for tents, picnic areas, fire rings, and drinking water. It is also possible to park at the campsite. If you want to leave your car overnight, you need to fill out a registration form at the registration kiosk to let the staff know you are on the GAP.

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mtm05005
March 31, 2025, Red Waterfall

The Red Waterfall is one of the main highlights on the GAP between West Newton and McKeesport. The falls gets its name from the water that has been colored red by nearby underground coal mines, which has made the water acidic and iron-rich water.

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The West Newton Visitor Center is set in a replica of the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad’s 1910 train station that used to found the town. It is open Monday through Friday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday 10:00 am to 3:00 pm and has maps, bathrooms, and a lot of interesting information about the GAP.

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Over 30 rides in an amusement park with roller coasters (some made of wood), water slides and a children's carousel.

Translated by Google

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Smithton?

Smithton offers 10 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Smithton?

The terrain around Smithton is quite varied. You can expect routes that traverse coastal areas with scenic views, rolling farmlands, and river valleys. Some routes, particularly those leading towards the Tarkine wilderness, may include a mix of sealed and gravel roads, offering a diverse cycling experience.

Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, Smithton has 4 easy touring cycling routes. A good option for a relaxed ride is the Bike loop from Smithton, which is 26.3 km long and has minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for beginners or a family outing.

What are some notable landmarks or points of interest I might see along the cycling routes?

While cycling around Smithton, you'll encounter various points of interest. The region is a gateway to the Tarkine wilderness, offering glimpses of ancient forests and remote coastlines. You might also pass by facilities like the West Newton Visitor Center or the Great Allegheny Passage. The nearby 'The Nut' at Stanley is also a prominent landmark visible from some areas.

Are there any routes that feature waterfalls or coastal views?

Yes, for a route featuring both a waterfall and coastal views, consider the Red Waterfall – Zorianna Bay loop from West Newton. This moderate 41.4 km trail leads through areas showcasing a waterfall and a bay, providing picturesque scenery.

What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Smithton?

Smithton benefits from a temperate climate, making touring cycling enjoyable for much of the year. The region's consistent rainfall keeps the landscapes lush and green. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures for cycling, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, some trails remain accessible, though conditions can be cooler and wetter.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Smithton are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Red Waterfall – Homestead Pump House loop from West Newton and the moderate Uniontown KOA Campground loop from West Newton are both circular routes, allowing you to start and finish in the same location.

What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Smithton?

The touring cycling routes in Smithton are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.86 stars from over 28 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from coastal paths to green farmlands, and the opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Can I find routes that are more challenging or suitable for experienced touring cyclists?

Absolutely. Smithton offers 2 difficult touring cycling routes for those seeking a greater challenge. The Red Waterfall – Homestead Pump House loop from West Newton is a demanding 171.4 km trail with over 1000 meters of elevation gain, providing a significant long-distance cycling experience.

Are there any facilities like campgrounds or visitor centers along the routes?

Yes, some routes pass by or are near facilities that can be useful for cyclists. For instance, you might find the West Newton Visitor Center, GAP Trail Campground, or Cedar Creek Hiker-Biker Campground along or near certain touring paths.

What kind of wildlife might I encounter while cycling in the Smithton area?

Cycling through Smithton's diverse landscapes, especially near the Tarkine wilderness or coastal areas, offers opportunities for wildlife spotting. You might see various bird species, and if you're lucky, some of Tasmania's unique marsupials. The region's lush environment supports a rich ecosystem.

Is there public transport available to access the cycling routes around Smithton?

While specific public transport links directly to trailheads might be limited, Smithton itself is a regional hub. For accessing routes further afield, planning for personal transport or checking local bus services for connections to nearby towns that serve as starting points for tours would be advisable.

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