Pedal Through Scenic Byways
Over 400 Miles of Bicycle PA – Route Y
Put the pedal to the metal and bike your way across Route 6! Over 400 miles of road from the Pymatuning Reservoir in Crawford County to Lackawaxen in Pike County are designated as official Pennsylvania bicycle routes — Route Y.
Route Y cuts across the northern tier and encompasses some of the state’s most picturesque landscape. Riders may enjoy rolling farmlands, lush forests, historic sites, and scenic wonders.
The Kinzua Viaduct, located just east of the village of Mt. Jewett, is a National Civil Engineering Landmark and is easily accessible via bike from Route Y. Your journey will take you from Route Y, across the Kinzua Bridge Scenic Byway to the state park. Picnic areas, hiking trials, and scenic overlooks are available at the park.
Biking/Mountain Biking
Biking is permitted on all State Forest roads and old logging roads, with mountain bikes recommended. All the state parks have many opportunities for biking.
The Indian Pipe Trail, located just west of Bradford, provides a 7.4 mile adventure through a 4,000 acre hardwood forest. This trail provides glimpses of a multitude of flora and fauna including the rare Indian Pipe Flower. The trail runs from the Marilla Reservoir, along Rt. 346 to the Allegany State Park entrance gate.
In the Allegheny National Forest, mountain bikes are permitted on all forest roads, all ATV trails, and most hiking and cross-country ski trails. A few areas exist in which biking is not permitted: Hickory Creek Wilderness, Hickory Creek Trail, Tionesta National Scenic Area, Heart’s Content Scenic Area and on Tracy Ridge Recreation Area.
The Longhouse National Scenic Byway is a 29-mile paved route around the Kinzua arm of the Allegheny Reservoir. Rimrock and Jake’s Rock Overlooks provide stunning vistas of the forest and water below. Plan your trip to experience the blooming of the Mountain Laurel in early June, or the fall foliage in late September and early October. Picnic areas, boating opportunities, and camping are nearby.
Blaze Your Own Trail
View these videos to find out what it’s like to cruise through the woods in Bradford, Pennsylvania with Pete Dzirkalis of Just Riding Along Bike Shop. Go to full screen by clicking the arrow cluster on the lower right of the selected video.
Want to Know More?
Biking in the Allegheny National Forest
BicyclePA – Route Y along Route 6
PA Bike Laws