Fishing Creek and Green Creek loop

This touring bicycle route is rated as moderate. While some sections along Fishing Creek might feature easy gravel trails, the Ridge and Valley region that Green Creek traverses implies potential climbs and descents. Expect a mix of gravel and possibly paved surfaces with varied elevation changes.

The terrain offers a varied experience. You can expect sections of easy gravel trail, particularly along Fishing Creek, though these may require fording the creek in three spots. Other parts, especially around Green Creek, will likely involve hills and hollows characteristic of the Ridge and Valley region, suggesting some climbs and descents.

You'll encounter several points of interest. A significant highlight is the historic Patterson Covered Bridge over Green Creek. The route also passes by Twin Bridges and follows Green Creek itself. The small settlement of Benton is also along the way.

The route offers beautiful natural scenery. You'll cycle through lush forest canopies, often dominated by hemlocks, with an understory of ferns and sedges. Both Fishing Creek and Green Creek are vital, picturesque waterways, with Green Creek noted for its often green-colored waters. The historic covered bridges add a charming touch to the landscape.

The area is rich in biodiversity. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, turkeys, hawks, foxes, muskrats, raccoons, and squirrels. Both Fishing Creek and Green Creek are high-quality fisheries, supporting wild trout populations, so you might spot aquatic wildlife as well.

Specific parking areas for this exact loop are not detailed, but for touring cyclists, it's advisable to plan your start point in or near a settlement like Benton, which is along the route. Look for public parking options in local towns or designated access points for nearby trails.

Generally, touring cycling on public roads and trails in Pennsylvania does not require specific permits or entrance fees. However, if any part of your chosen route passes through private land or specific state park/forest areas with unique regulations, it's always best to check local signage or official websites for any permit requirements.

While the route primarily uses public roads and trails, specific dog regulations can vary. On public roads, dogs are generally allowed if leashed and under control. For any specific trail sections, check local rules regarding dogs. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and you carry waste bags.

The natural beauty of the area suggests spring, summer, and fall would all be excellent times. Spring offers lush greenery, summer provides warm weather, and fall brings vibrant foliage. Be mindful of water levels if planning to ford Fishing Creek, as these can vary seasonally. Winter cycling might be challenging due to snow and ice.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the West Paden Covered Bridge Number 121, Covered Bridges Lane, and East Paden Covered Bridge Number 120.

Yes, if you follow the gravel trail closely along Fishing Creek, you will encounter three spots where you would need to ford the creek. Be prepared for this, as water levels can vary.