Philadelphia, PA
- If you are planning a vacation to the city of brotherly love, you'll definitely want to consider bicycle riding. Suppose you wish to explore the historic neighborhoods of Manayunk or the Schuylkill River Trail. In that case, there are plenty of options in Philadelphia to get you around. Here are some tips to make your trip a hit! Listed below are some of the best bike trails in Philadelphia. You'll also find information on bike laws and symbols.
The Rookie's Guide to Biking in Philly
Ride Main Street Through Manayunk
Whether you're riding a bicycle, scooter, or even a horse, there's no reason to miss a trip to Manayunk. The area's towpath connects the Schuylkill River and the Cynwyd Heritage Trail. You can enter the Trail through Dupont Street and Main Street. Several sections of the Schuylkill River Trail pass through Manayunk, and the towpath is signed with historical information.
Ride the Schuylkill River Trail
While bike riding in Philadelphia, make sure to take the time to ride the Schuylkill River Trail, a 75-mile trail that will eventually stretch to 120 miles. The Trail follows the tracks of the Pennsylvania Railroad, and you'll be riding through the heart of the American Industrial Revolution. You'll pass through Schuylkill County, Montgomery County, Chester County, Berks, and Delaware counties, ending at Fort Mifflin, which is a popular destination for history buffs.
Ride the Chester Valley Trail
If you are a cyclist, you may want to consider riding the Chester Valley Trail when biking in Philadelphia. The Trail connects King of Prussia to Exton and rolls 15 miles between the two communities. This Trail is an excellent alternative transportation option, as it encourages a variety of users. The Trail was created by converting the corridor of the Chester Valley Branch of the Reading Railroad, which was completed in the 1850s. It continued to haul freight until the late 20th century. In 2009, Chester County began work on the Trail. In addition, Montgomery County has plans to extend the Trail westward into Downingtown.
Ride the Brandywine Creek
There are many ways to enjoy the beautiful landscape of Brandywine Creek, a popular recreational cycling route in the Greater Philadelphia area. The 25-mile loop follows the creek's West Branch and passes the historic Marshallton and Brandywine Battlefield. Bike enthusiasts can also check out nearby sites like the Art Institute of Philadelphia and the Franklin Institute of Technology. There are even opportunities to learn about the history of Brandywine Creek from experienced riders.
Ride the Schuylkill River Trail to Valley Forge
The Trail provides a wonderful opportunity for casual riders to explore the park. With short distances and scenic stops, it is popular with a wide audience of cyclists. Runners also enjoy the Trail, which offers a traffic-free bike lane and connects Center City to Valley Forge National Historical Park. Several Philadelphia suburbs are close to Valley Forge, making it a convenient destination for cyclists.
