How would you describe the mountain biking scene in PA?
The cycling scene in Pennsylvania is phenomenal. We have thousands of scenic backroads and over 115 easy-to-navigate rail trails with smooth surfaces. Our state parks and forests offer some of the best gravel riding around.

But let’s talk mountains . . . Pennsylvania’s Appalachian and Allegheny mountains are perfect for mountain bikers and have made it a top destination on the East Coast. Our state has a vibrant cycling community, with truly outstanding trail systems with everything from advanced technical singletrack trails to legacy logging paths and tramways.

Pennsylvania has mountain bike trails all over the state. Jakes Rocks in Allegheny National Forest, the Allegrippis Trails at Raystown Lake, as well as extensive trail systems in State Forests such as Michaux and Rothrock.

 

 

What’s the most exciting part of the PA mountain biking scene right now?
Mountain biking is evolving fast! Gravel biking is a hit, taking riders off busy roads and into forested mountain roads. eBikes are game-changers, making biking accessible for all ages and abilities. For the younger crowd, the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Cycling League (PICL) is booming, getting kids and teens into mountain biking and fostering a new generation of cyclists. The cycling community is a very social community with local clubs, group rides, and small, independently owned bicycle shops that provide opportunities to meet new people and get out on the trails.

 

 

How do you see the future of mountain biking in PA?
Pennsylvania’s investment in outdoor recreation is fantastic for mountain biking and the state. Popular trails boost tourism and make our communities great places to live and work. Mountain bikers also play a big role in trail maintenance and environmental stewardship, promoting principles like Tread Lightly! and Leave No Trace.

 

 

What do you love most about mountain biking?
I love the blend of challenge and serenity. The technical skill needed to navigate singletrack and the physical workout are exhilarating. But it’s also about the peaceful moments in beautiful, wild places – spotting wildlife, basking in sunbeams through the trees, and just soaking in the natural beauty. Those moments stay with you and keep you coming back for more.

 

 

Where can I get additional information to find Mountain Biking Trails in Pennsylvania?
For additional resources on Mountain Biking, you can purchase a Purple Lizard PA Outdoor Recreation Map in the PPFF store, which lists 114 Rail Trails & Bikeways, 53 Mountain Bike Destinations, and other outdoor recreation opportunities, or visit the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources outdoor recreation page.