If you’re a cycling enthusiast looking for the best spots to pedal away in Philadelphia, you’re in for a treat. The city boasts a plethora of cycling routes that cater to all levels of experience and preferences. From scenic rides along the picturesque Schuylkill River Trail to urban explorations through the vibrant neighborhoods, Philadelphia has something for everyone. So grab your bike and get ready to embark on an exhilarating adventure filled with breathtaking views, historical landmarks, and a vibrant cycling community.
Popular Trails
Schuylkill River Trail
One of the most popular trails in Philadelphia is the Schuylkill River Trail. This trail follows the scenic Schuylkill River and provides cyclists with a beautiful and enjoyable ride. The trail stretches for over 30 miles, making it perfect for both short rides and long-distance cycling. Along the way, you’ll pass through various parks, neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks, such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The Schuylkill River Trail is well-maintained, clearly marked, and offers stunning views of the river and the city skyline. It’s no wonder that this trail is a favorite among local cyclists and visitors alike.
Kelly Drive Trail
Another popular trail in Philadelphia is the Kelly Drive Trail. This trail is located along the banks of the Schuylkill River and offers cyclists a picturesque and peaceful ride. The trail is approximately 8 miles long and is a great option for cyclists of all skill levels. Whether you’re a casual rider or a seasoned cyclist, the Kelly Drive Trail provides a smooth and enjoyable cycling experience. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to take in the beautiful scenery, including Boathouse Row and Fairmount Water Works. This trail is a must-visit for anyone looking for a relaxing and scenic ride in Philadelphia.
Manayunk Bridge Trail
If you’re looking for a unique cycling experience, the Manayunk Bridge Trail is a great choice. This trail spans the Schuylkill River and offers cyclists stunning views of the surrounding area. The trail itself is a former railroad bridge that has been converted into a pedestrian and cycling path. It connects the Manayunk neighborhood with Lower Merion Township and provides a safe and convenient route for cyclists. The Manayunk Bridge Trail is a relatively short trail, approximately 0.7 miles long, but it offers a memorable and enjoyable ride. Whether you’re a local cyclist or a visitor to Philadelphia, this trail is definitely worth checking out.
Urban Routes
Center City Loop
If you prefer cycling in the heart of the city, the Center City Loop is a perfect choice. This urban route takes you through Philadelphia’s bustling downtown area, allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere while enjoying a bike ride. The Center City Loop is approximately 6 miles long and takes you past iconic landmarks such as City Hall, Love Park, and the Liberty Bell. This route is a great way to explore Philadelphia’s rich history and vibrant culture while getting some exercise. Just be prepared for some traffic and busy streets, as this is a popular route for both cyclists and pedestrians.
Fairmount Park Loop
For a longer and more scenic urban ride, the Fairmount Park Loop is an excellent option. This loop takes you through the expansive Fairmount Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country. The loop is approximately 8 miles long and offers cyclists a peaceful and serene ride through nature. Along the way, you’ll pass by historic mansions, beautiful gardens, and the famous Philadelphia Zoo. The Fairmount Park Loop is a great route for cyclists of all skill levels, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the stunning surroundings. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a refreshing ride in the city, this loop is definitely worth exploring.
Mountain Biking
Wissahickon Valley Park
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Wissahickon Valley Park is a must-visit destination. Located just outside of Philadelphia, this park offers miles of challenging and exciting trails for all skill levels. The park features rugged terrain, steep climbs, and thrilling downhill sections, making it a favorite spot for mountain bikers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, Wissahickon Valley Park has something for everyone. The park also offers stunning views of the Wissahickon Creek and lush greenery, providing a true escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Make sure to bring your mountain bike and protective gear for an adrenaline-filled adventure in nature.
Sam’s Point Preserve
If you’re looking for a mountain biking experience that’s a bit closer to the city, Sam’s Point Preserve is worth exploring. This preserve is located just north of Philadelphia and offers a network of trails that are perfect for mountain biking. The trails in Sam’s Point Preserve vary in difficulty, allowing riders of all skill levels to enjoy the thrill of off-road cycling. From smooth and flowy sections to technical and challenging terrain, this preserve has something for everyone. The preserve is also known for its stunning vistas, with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, Sam’s Point Preserve is a hidden gem for mountain biking in Philadelphia.
Road Cycling
Forbidden Drive
For road cyclists, Forbidden Drive is a popular and scenic route in Philadelphia. This historic road is located within Wissahickon Valley Park and offers a picturesque and enjoyable ride. Forbidden Drive stretches for approximately 5 miles and is closed to motor vehicle traffic, making it a safe and peaceful route for cyclists. Along the way, you’ll ride alongside the Wissahickon Creek and pass through a canopy of towering trees. The road is well-paved and in excellent condition, allowing for a smooth and comfortable ride. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a more challenging workout, Forbidden Drive is a great option for road cycling in Philadelphia.
River Road
If you’re looking for a longer and more challenging road cycling route, River Road is a great choice. This route takes you along the scenic Delaware River and offers breathtaking views of the water and surrounding landscape. River Road stretches for approximately 30 miles and offers a mix of flat sections and rolling hills, providing a great workout for cyclists. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming towns, historic sites, and beautiful rural scenery. Be prepared for some traffic on this route, especially on weekends, as it is a popular destination for cyclists and motorists alike. River Road is a fantastic option for road cyclists looking for a longer and more adventurous ride in Philadelphia.
Lafayette Hill Loop
For a road cycling route that combines challenging climbs and beautiful scenery, the Lafayette Hill Loop is worth considering. This loop takes you through the scenic suburbs of Philadelphia and offers a mix of flat terrain and challenging hills. The loop is approximately 20 miles long and takes you through quiet residential streets and picturesque countryside. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming towns like Lafayette Hill and enjoy views of rolling hills and lush greenery. This route is popular among local road cyclists for its variety of terrain and stunning surroundings. Whether you’re a recreational cyclist or a serious racer, the Lafayette Hill Loop offers a challenging and rewarding ride.
Bike-Friendly Neighborhoods
Manayunk
Manayunk is one of the most bike-friendly neighborhoods in Philadelphia. With its numerous bike lanes and trails, this neighborhood makes it easy and convenient for cyclists to get around. The neighborhood is located along the Schuylkill River and offers easy access to popular trails such as the Schuylkill River Trail and the Manayunk Bridge Trail. Manayunk also has plenty of bike parking options and bike-friendly businesses, making it a great place to bike and explore. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a quick commute, Manayunk is a bike-friendly neighborhood that caters to cyclists of all levels.
Graduate Hospital
Another bike-friendly neighborhood in Philadelphia is Graduate Hospital. This neighborhood is known for its wide streets, bike lanes, and easy access to popular cycling routes. Graduate Hospital is located in close proximity to the Schuylkill River Trail and offers a convenient starting point for cyclists looking to explore this popular trail. The neighborhood also has a bike-share program, making it easy for residents and visitors to get around on two wheels. With its bike-friendly infrastructure and proximity to popular cycling routes, Graduate Hospital is a great choice for cyclists looking for a bike-friendly neighborhood in Philadelphia.
Fishtown
Fishtown is a hip and vibrant neighborhood in Philadelphia that also happens to be very bike-friendly. With its wide streets, bike lanes, and bike-friendly businesses, Fishtown offers a great cycling experience for residents and visitors alike. This neighborhood is located along the Delaware River and offers easy access to popular cycling routes such as River Road. Fishtown also has plenty of bike parking options, making it easy to park your bike and explore the neighborhood on foot. Whether you’re looking for a place to grab a bite to eat, browse local shops, or enjoy a leisurely ride along the river, Fishtown is a bike-friendly neighborhood that won’t disappoint.
Scenic Routes
SRT to Valley Forge
One of the most scenic routes for cyclists in Philadelphia is the Schuylkill River Trail to Valley Forge. This route takes you along the Schuylkill River Trail and continues all the way to Valley Forge National Historical Park. The trail offers stunning views of the river, lush greenery, and historic landmarks along the way. As you ride, you’ll pass through charming towns, picturesque parks, and beautiful countryside. Once you reach Valley Forge, you’ll have the chance to explore the park’s historic sites and learn about the area’s significance during the American Revolutionary War. This scenic route is perfect for cyclists who enjoy both natural beauty and history.
Schuylkill Banks to Bartram’s Garden
For a scenic and peaceful ride along the Schuylkill River, the route from Schuylkill Banks to Bartram’s Garden is a great option. This route takes you from the lively Schuylkill Banks Park to the tranquil Bartram’s Garden, offering a beautiful and refreshing cycling experience. As you ride, you’ll pass through scenic waterfront areas, urban parks, and green spaces. The route is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the river, the Philadelphia skyline, and the surrounding nature. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing ride or a place to unwind after a long day, this scenic route is a hidden gem in Philadelphia.
Family-Friendly Paths
Pennypack Park
Pennypack Park is a great destination for family-friendly cycling in Philadelphia. This expansive park offers miles of paved paths that are perfect for cyclists of all ages and skill levels. The paths wind through wooded areas, meadows, and along the Pennypack Creek, providing a peaceful and scenic ride. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot wildlife, have a picnic, or explore one of the park’s playgrounds. Pennypack Park is also home to the Pennypack Environmental Center, where families can learn about the park’s natural resources and participate in educational programs. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a fun outing with the family, Pennypack Park is a fantastic choice.
Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park is not only a great destination for road cyclists and mountain bikers, but it also offers family-friendly paths that are perfect for a leisurely ride. With over 9,200 acres of parkland, Fairmount Park offers plenty of space for families to explore and enjoy the outdoors. The park has a network of paved paths that are separate from vehicle traffic, ensuring a safe and enjoyable cycling experience for families. Along the paths, you’ll pass by beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and picnic areas. Fairmount Park also offers rental bikes, allowing families to easily access and enjoy the park’s scenic paths. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Philadelphia, Fairmount Park is a wonderful place to cycle with your family.
Historical Ride
Valley Forge National Park
If you’re interested in combining your love for cycling with a visit to a historic site, Valley Forge National Park is a must-visit destination. This park was the site of the Continental Army’s winter encampment during the American Revolutionary War and offers a wealth of historical significance. The park features miles of paved roads and trails that are perfect for cycling and provide a unique opportunity to explore the area’s history. As you ride through the park, you’ll have the chance to visit historical structures, monuments, and interpretive exhibits. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the past, a cycling trip to Valley Forge National Park is a memorable and educational experience.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
For a historical ride in the heart of Philadelphia, the route to the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a great choice. This iconic museum is not only known for its impressive art collection but also for being the finish line of the annual Philadelphia International Cycling Classic. As you ride towards the museum, you’ll pass famous landmarks such as Boathouse Row and the Ben Franklin Parkway. Once you reach the museum, take a moment to climb the famous “Rocky Steps” and enjoy the stunning view of the city skyline. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is not only a cultural hub but also a symbol of the city’s rich history and is a must-visit destination for any cyclist in Philadelphia.
Park to Park Trail
Penn Treaty Park to FDR Park
If you’re looking to explore multiple parks in Philadelphia, the Park to Park Trail is a great option. This trail connects Penn Treaty Park, located along the Delaware River, to FDR Park, located in the heart of South Philadelphia. The trail offers a scenic and convenient route for cyclists, passing through various neighborhoods and green spaces. As you ride, you’ll have the chance to experience the diverse landscapes and communities that make Philadelphia unique. Whether you’re looking for a longer ride or just a quick trip between parks, the Park to Park Trail provides a fun and enjoyable cycling experience.
Group Rides
Philly Bike Club
If you enjoy cycling with a group of like-minded individuals, the Philly Bike Club is the perfect opportunity to join group rides and meet fellow cycling enthusiasts. The club offers a variety of rides for cyclists of all levels, ranging from leisurely social rides to more challenging and competitive rides. In addition to group rides, the Philly Bike Club also organizes social events, educational workshops, and volunteer opportunities. Whether you’re new to cycling or a seasoned rider, joining the Philly Bike Club is a great way to connect with the cycling community in Philadelphia and explore the city’s best cycling routes.
Guys and Gals Bike Multisport Club
Another option for group rides in Philadelphia is the Guys and Gals Bike Multisport Club. This club is dedicated to promoting the sport of cycling and multisport activities in the city. The club offers a variety of group rides, training sessions, and social events throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in road cycling, mountain biking, or triathlon training, the Guys and Gals Bike Multisport Club has something for everyone. Joining the club is a great way to improve your cycling skills, meet new people, and explore the city’s best cycling routes in a fun and supportive environment.
In conclusion, Philadelphia offers a wide range of cycling options for every type of cyclist. From popular trails along the Schuylkill River to challenging mountain biking routes, scenic road cycling routes, and family-friendly paths, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the city, grab your bike and explore the best spots for cycling in Philadelphia. Happy riding!