Your Guide to Biking in the Poconos
Heading out on vacation to the Poconos? Leave your car parked for the day and head out on 2 wheels! You’ll love exploring the city in a whole new way. Not sure where to head out on your ride? When it comes to biking in the Poconos, we’ve got you covered.
Cycling is not only great exercise and better for the environment, it’s a fun way to explore the town to run errands or just ride for leisure. This guide to biking in the Poconos highlights some of our favorite routes with scenic views and cool places to check out along the way.
Bike Rentals in Hawley
With the creation of the Hawley Bike Share Program, everyone has the opportunity to enjoy bike riding through the town. The Hawley Bike Share Program has been a great way to help visitors and locals rediscover the town. With 12 bikes in 2 different sizes, bikes can be checked out free of charge and taken all around town for the day. The Settlers Inn, Hawley Silk Mill, and the Delaware Highlands Conservancy are just a few places that participate in the Bike Share Program, which means you can grab on eright off our porch! Each bike comes with helmet, lock, and front basket.
Our Favorite Bike Trails Near Hawley
Black Diamond Trail in Lehigh Gorge
One of our favorite rides is the Lehigh Gorge Black Diamond Trail. This ride runs for 11 miles between Glen Summit and White Haven. The trail is downhill so it is a pretty easy ride but can take up to three hours to complete. You’ll ride past the Lehigh River under the trees on this easy and scenic path.
The McDade Trail at Delaware Gap National Recreation Area
The McDade Trail is a gravel trail that runs for 32 miles parallel to the Delaware River. The trail is mostly flat but there are sections with small hills. Families looking to ride together should find their way to the Smithfield Beach Area. At this location, there is a five-mile section of the trail that is ideal for all ages. The views on this trail are unbeatable.
Promised Land State Park
Promised Land State Park in Greentown, PA, offers riders six-miles of paved roads through the park. This 3,000-acre park has very pretty views of the forest and Promised Land Lake. Bikers do have to share the road with cars so this might be best for adults.
The Switchback Trail at Mauch Chunk Lake Park
Mountain Bikers will especially love the Switchback Trail found in Mauch Chunk Lake Park. The trail leads to an overlook with spectacular views of Lehigh Gorge State Park. This trail is ideal for a summer day since it runs next to the creek and is shaded. It’s no wonder this is the park’s most popular trail!
Lackawaxen River Ride
If you’re new to the area, just ask our founder Jeanne Genzlinger what one of her favorite rides is and she’ll tell you all about the Lackawaxen River Ride. This route leaves right from our front door and travels past many historic sites. You can customize this ride and bike for as few as five miles or as far as 15 miles. Once you’ve finished your ride, you’ll be back at the Inn ready to relax.
Wayne County Scenic Ride
Our very own Jeanne here at The Settlers Inn offers up her another favorite pick for riding bikes, the Wayne County Scenic Ride. On this route, there is a 15-mile loop on a rural road that runs parallel to a brook. Riders looking for more of a challenge will enjoy the hills on the 33.5-mile route. Both routes are great for viewing the countryside and wildlife.
Book Your Stay in Hawley at the Settlers Inn!
When your day comes to an end here in Hawley, be sure to retreat each evening back to The Settlers Inn for a relaxing spot to rest. Soak in the in-room Jacuzzi tub or curl up in your Microfiber robe and unwind in one of the 23 beautiful guest rooms. The Inn is located on 6-acres of land, so there are plenty of places to explore and enjoy. With our farm to table restaurant also located on the property, there’s no reason to even leave once you’re back after a long day of biking!
Browse our available rooms now and book your next trip to Hawley directly with the Settlers Inn!
Photo courtesy of Ravi Shah