Mid-Atlantic States and the Great Biking Paths

The Mid-Atlantic States are home to some of the greatest cities in the country. They are also home to some of the most beautiful and scenic bike trails. These trails are a great way to get a true appreciation of the natural beauty in this region.

Near Pittsburgh, PA are the Hartwood Acres. These trails come complete with rock gardens and the Historic Tudor Mansion. If you are looking for an easier ride, stay on the trails leading to the mansion. For the more experienced cyclist, there are trails that have more difficult terrain including log jumps, steep climbs followed by downhill slops and quick switchbacks. All of the trails are free to cyclists, but there will be a small admission fee to go to the estate.

A stone's throw from Waverly City, OH is the Scioto Trail State Forest. With over 26 miles of gravel and dirt trails, there are plenty to choose from. The skill levels range from beginners to experienced, but the trails are shared with pedestrians and horseback riders. Be sure to come prepared with water!

Williamsburg, Virginia is best know for its Revolutionary War reenactments. Most people don't know that Freedom Park also has 3 loops that total about five miles. This is a great place for the family to spend some time after checking out the historical sites. Beginners should do just fine but there are some obstacles and bridges to cross so it will feel like a family adventure.

If you are looking for a place to sharpen your technical skills, the Kennison Mountain Trail in Richwood, West Virginia is the spot for you. This loop is filled with mud, a rocky singletrack and steep downhill slopes. With 8 miles of training, beginners had better bring their "A" game.

There are several great bike trails near Bryson City, North Carolina. Thompson Loop and Mouse Branch are two of the best. Both of these trails charge $2 per person or $15 for a yearly pass. Bikes are only allowed on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Thompson Loop is about 7.7 miles of logging roads with some fairly steep sections. However, after the difficult climb, the rider is rewarded with a spectacular descent which is over a mile long with some great banked curves. Just watch out for blackberry bushes along the trail!

Mouse Branch is almost 7 miles long and has fewer climbs but some pretty fast downhills. There is a scenic overlook that makes a great resting spot. The southside trail used to be called Tour de Dump but is now redone and winning biker over everyday. It is lightly used so it's a great place to practice and is nice and simple for beginners.

These trails are just the tip of the iceberg of the biking that the mid-atlantic states have to offer. If you are planning to do some cheaper traveling this year, these trails, and many others in the mid-atlantic region await you and your bike. Enjoy them.