Hell is paved with good intentions and so is the gorge...the Lehigh Gorge, which is not actually paved at all. It is a graded railroad bed that is hard pack gravel with a few loose sections along the way. The trail runs along the Lehigh River and the old railroad from Glen Onoko to White Haven located in the Pocono area of Pennsylvania. The trail is a 45 mile round trip ride with a stop in Rockport about halfway through. This ride can easily be done on a road bike, but I opted to pull out my cross bike which I sorely miss riding. Besides, why chew up those pricey road tires?
photo by Rob ErbeauThe trail itself winds and meanders along the beautiful Lehigh, nestled amongst the lush green mountains of PA. It is of course, a gorge, so you can feel the envelopment surround you as pedal along taking in the steep walls that rise out of the river.
Typically, I see the gorge from a birds eye view. Some of the best mountain biking in the area hovers just above on Broad Mountain. There are 3 overlooks that are a required pit stop along the way which allow for incredible views of the gorge down below. Today was another ball of wax.
photo by Rob ErbeauWhen I think of gravel trails that are flat, I am usually not all too enthused. Lets face it, sitting in the saddle for a few hours in one position leaves you with an aching butt and stiff back. Even the seasoned rider will feel it and so will your legs.
Because this is graded railroad bed, you are quickly fooled into thinking it is flat. Indeed, it is not. The trail actually climbs for 22 miles. It is hard to tell because it is so gradual. However, as you head deeper along the trail, you can see the Lehigh River begin to slip away beneath you. Before you know it, you are basking in the shade of trees.
As much as I loathe rides that don't give much out of the saddle time, this is a great trail. Beginners and experts alike can get a great workout or simply enjoy a nice ride with friends. Invite a friend and you'll have the best of both. (Thanks Rob and Tracey!)
You can start in either direction, but I recommend Glen Onoko to Whitehaven and back. Get the climbing out of the way. Your ride back will be a breeze. Once you reach White Haven, stop for Pizza at Antonio's. The best around! And, they have glass bottles of Coke! Once you had your fill, spin on back downhill.
Don't forget to take pictures. There are some pretty waterfalls that spill down a cascade of rocks and neat little nooks and crannies that are pleasing to the eye. Look up and see the massive peaks of the PA mountains. If the sun is blazing, jump in the Lehigh when you are done or take a hike up to the Glen Onoko falls. Appropriate shoes are highly suggested, as it can be slippery. Flip flops are NOT considered appropriate just in case you were wondering.
This area is filled with coal mining and rail road history. It's worth the day trip or camping weekend. Take the time and explore.
Here's the map: http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/lehighgorge/lehighgorge_mini.pdf
