The Ultimate Guide to Motorcycle Riding in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers some of the most scenic and thrilling motorcycle routes in the northeastern United States. From winding mountain roads to serene forest paths, the Keystone State has something for every rider. Before we dive into Pennsylvania’s offerings, it’s worth noting that neighboring states like Ohio, New York, and West Virginia also boast excellent riding opportunities for those looking to extend their two-wheeled adventures.
1. The Grand Army of the Republic Highway
- Location: Northern Pennsylvania
- Distance: 400+ miles across the state
- Key features: Scenic drive through mountains, forests, small towns
- Notable attractions: Pine Creek Gorge, Kinzua Trestle Bridge
- Best time to ride: Fall for foliage views
US Route 6 is a quintessential Pennsylvania ride, offering a diverse landscape that showcases the state’s natural beauty. As you traverse the northern tier, you’ll encounter charming small towns, dense forests, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
2. State Route 92
- Location: Tunkhannock to West Pittston
- Distance: 22 miles
- Key features: Sweeping road along a beautiful stream bed
While shorter than some other routes, State Route 92 packs a punch with its scenic beauty. The road follows the contours of a picturesque stream, providing riders with a serene and enjoyable experience.
3. US Route 30 (Lincoln Highway)
- Location: Southern Pennsylvania
- Distance: 82 miles (Chambersburg to Breezewood section)
- Key features: Scenic four-lane road through winding country and farmland
- Notable attractions: Gettysburg Battlefield
- Difficulty: Challenging, better suited for experienced riders
The Lincoln Highway offers a perfect blend of history and scenic riding. As you navigate the winding roads through Pennsylvania’s farmland, you’ll be tracing the path of one of America’s first transcontinental highways.
4. State Route 381
- Location: Laughlintown to Brandonville, West Virginia
- Distance: 55 miles
- Key features: Twisty road through southwest Pennsylvania
- Notable attractions: Ohiopyle State Park, Fallingwater (Frank Lloyd Wright house)
State Route 381 is a motorcyclist’s dream, with its twisting turns and varied scenery. The route takes you through some of Pennsylvania’s most beautiful landscapes and past world-renowned architectural marvels.
5. PA Route 44
- Location: Central Pennsylvania
- Distance: 70+ miles
- Key features: Secluded forest road with tight turns and elevation changes
- Difficulty: Challenging due to tight turns and elevation changes
- Best time to ride: Spring, summer, fall
- Notable attractions: Cherry Springs State Park (“Highway to the Stars”)
PA Route 44 is often referred to as the “Highway to the Stars” due to its proximity to Cherry Springs State Park, known for its exceptional stargazing opportunities. This challenging route offers a thrilling ride through Pennsylvania’s dense forests.
Best Motorcycle Rides in Pennsylvania
1. Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway
- Location: Southwestern Pennsylvania
- Distance: 66 miles
- Key features: Picturesque farmlands, waterfalls, rolling hillsides
- Notable attractions: Ligonier town, Ohiopyle State Park, Fallingwater
- Best time to ride: Fall for foliage views
The Laurel Highlands Scenic Byway showcases some of Pennsylvania’s most stunning landscapes. From charming towns to natural wonders, this ride offers a perfect mix of culture and scenery.
2. Elk Country Loop
- Location: North-central Pennsylvania
- Distance: 127 miles
- Key features: Sweeping turns, roadside waterfalls, wildlife viewing
- Notable attractions: Bucktail Overlook (“The Top of The World”), elk herds
- Best time to ride: Fall for elk viewing and foliage
The Elk Country Loop takes riders through the heart of Pennsylvania’s elk country. With its sweeping turns and abundant wildlife, this route offers a unique riding experience you won’t find anywhere else in the state.
3. Groundhog Loop
- Location: Punxsutawney area
- Distance: 107 miles
- Key features: Scenic countryside ride
- Notable attractions: Punxsutawney (home of Groundhog Phil), Punxsutawney Weather Discovery Center, DuBois Harley Davidson
This whimsical route takes riders through the charming countryside surrounding Punxsutawney, made famous by the movie “Groundhog Day.” It’s a delightful mix of scenic riding and quirky Americana.
4. Fantastic Forests Route
- Location: Northwestern Pennsylvania
- Distance: 82.3 miles
- Key features: Serene waters, lush forests, National Wild & Scenic Recreation Rivers
- Notable attractions: Cook Forest State Park, Allegheny National Forest
- Best time to ride: Fall for foliage views
The Fantastic Forests Route lives up to its name, taking riders through some of Pennsylvania’s most pristine natural areas. The lush forests and serene waters make for a truly memorable ride.
5. East Berlin/Michaux State Forest Loop
- Location: South-central Pennsylvania
- Key features: Incredible scenery with hills and mountains
- Notable attractions: Michaux State Forest
This loop offers riders a chance to experience the beauty of south-central Pennsylvania’s hills and mountains. The Michaux State Forest provides a stunning backdrop for this scenic ride.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, Pennsylvania’s diverse landscape and well-maintained roads offer something for everyone. As you plan your Pennsylvania motorcycle adventure, consider exploring routes in neighboring states as well. New Jersey offers coastal rides along the Atlantic, while Maryland boasts beautiful routes through the Appalachian Mountains. Each state has its own unique charm and riding experiences to offer.
Motorcycle Rides in the US by States
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Vishwanath Mathpati
I am Vishwanath Mathpati, a full-time Blogger and Motorcyclist from Bidar, Karnataka. I love writing about my Motorcycles Stories and Riding Gears on this blog.
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