The best traffic-free bike rides in Worthington State Forest

There are 6 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes available in Worthington State Forest and the immediate surrounding area. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate difficulty levels, ensuring options for various skill sets.

The terrain varies, but many routes, especially those along the Delaware River, are relatively flat. For example, the historic Old Mine Road, which skirts the forest, offers a scenic and generally flat ride. Other routes may include gentle ascents and descents, particularly as you move away from the river into the broader Delaware Water Gap area. Surfaces can range from paved sections to gravel or cinder, so bikes with wider tires are often recommended for optimal comfort.

Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. Two notable options include the Bike loop from Tocks Island, which is just under 15 km, and the Smithfield Beach loop from Depew Island, which is slightly over 15 km. These routes are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for a range of ages and abilities.

Many routes in the area offer stunning views of the Delaware River. The historic Old Mine Road, which is a key feature for touring cyclists, runs alongside the river. Additionally, the View of Delaware River – McDade Recreational Trail loop from Bushkill is specifically designed to showcase these beautiful river vistas. You can also find excellent viewpoints like the Delaware Water Gap viewpoint along some routes.

While cycling, you can explore several natural and historical attractions. The routes often pass by or offer access to highlights such as the historic Old Mine Road itself, which has a rich past. You might also catch glimpses of the stunning Delaware Water Gap viewpoint. For those willing to venture slightly off-bike, the serene Sunfish Pond and the scenic Dunnfield Creek Trail are notable natural features in the wider area.

Yes, several of the no traffic touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Bike loop from Tocks Island, the Hidden Lake – Shawnee Lake loop from Smithfield Township, and the Witmers Lake loop from Stroudsburg, providing convenient options for your ride.

Spring, summer, and fall are generally the best seasons for touring cycling. Spring brings blooming mountain laurel and rhododendron, while fall offers spectacular foliage. Summer is also pleasant, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially on unpaved sections, and some facilities may be limited.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning natural beauty of the Delaware Water Gap, and the historical significance of paths like Old Mine Road. The diverse landscapes and opportunities for wildlife spotting are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, parking is generally available at various access points for the trails and routes in and around Worthington State Forest and the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Specific parking locations will depend on your chosen starting point, but many trailheads and visitor centers offer designated parking facilities.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Witmers Lake loop from Stroudsburg covers over 37 km with moderate elevation changes, offering a good challenge. Another moderate option is the Hidden Lake – Shawnee Lake loop from Smithfield Township, which is over 25 km long.

While Worthington State Forest itself has specific rules regarding cycling (primarily Old Mine Road), the broader Delaware Water Gap region offers connections to other notable trails. The McDade Recreational Trail, a mostly flat and paved path, runs for nearly 30 miles along the Delaware River on the Pennsylvania side. Another option is the Paulinskill Valley Trail, a 27-mile rail-trail with varied surfaces, which connects to other regional trails like the Sussex Branch Trail. For more information on the McDade Recreational Trail, you can visit nps.gov, and for the Paulinskill Valley Trail, see wikipedia.org.