Biking

One of the best ways to explore Pennsylvania's Americana Region is on two wheels. Enjoy the scenic views of the Schuylkill River Trails as you pedal through the varied and historic landscapes of Berks County. Tackle the challenging terrain of over 125 miles of mountain biking trails in Greater Reading. Whatever your skill set or ability, there are biking experiences for everyone. Get curious and explore our turf!

Mountain Biking Trails

If you’re looking for an unforgettable mountain biking adventure, you’ve come to the right place. You'll want to check out the Greater Reading Trail System (GRTS) in the heart of Berks County. After all, the trail system earned a Bronze Level Ride Center designation from the International Mountain Biking Association, and there are fewer than 50 ride centers worldwide.

What makes the trail system award-worthy? It features over 125 miles of trails for beginners and expert mountain bikers. The trails interconnect and some, like the Mount Penn Preserve trail, lead to urban centers, where you can pop off for a lunch break. For something further out in nature, journey on the 20 miles of rocky terrain in French Creek State Park. 

The Berks Area Mountain Biking Association (BAMBA) works to create and improve trail experiences for riders within Berks County, so there's always something new to ride on here.

Take the Leisurely Route

It’s about the journey and the destination on Berks County's gravel trails. 

Go at your own pace on the Union Canal Trail, an easy 5.3-mile gravel and leisure trail, which is also adaptive. You can enjoy views of Tulpehocken Creek and access to Berks County parks, including Gring’s Mill Recreation Area, which features a ranch-themed children’s play area. Bring the kiddos and enjoy a day outside.

The Angelica Creek Trail, a 1-mile gravel pathway, leads to its namesake park, a 90-acre wildlife oasis, and hangout spot.

Go Road Biking

If road biking is more your speed, you’ll find plenty of action across Berks County.

Hit the road and explore 16 miles of East Reading, which cuts across green spaces, including the Mount Penn Preserve and Egelman Park, featuring stunning views and moderate difficulty. For an easy and relatively flat journey, hop on the Fleetwood to Kutztown loop, a 16-mile route in the countryside.

Trails for Everyone

All abilities are welcomed on Berks County's adaptive-friendly biking trails.

Blue Marsh Lake has a 30-mile multi-use trail that encircles the picturesque lake, offering varying levels of difficulty, from easy to difficult. Make a day of it and head to the Dry Brooks Day area after to enjoy the swim beach, picnic area, and concession stand.

Another adaptive-friendly pathway is the 1.8-mile Union Canal Connector Trail, part of the Schuylkill River Trail System. It links the Union Canal with the Blue Marsh Trail and is considered an easy route. Also part of that system is the flat, multi-use Schuylkill River Trail featuring over 75 miles of paved and gravel pathways winding through rural, city, and agricultural landscapes. The trail is mostly 10 to 12 feet wide and open to cyclists. Here’s a fun fact: most of the Schuylkill trail was once railroad lines.

Thanks to its asphalt surface, the Muhlenberg Rail Trail, a 1.75 mile pathway, is accessible to everyone. You’ll find plenty of trees along the trail that’ll provide shade on sunny days.

If you’re curious enough about our biking trails, bring your favorite cycle and explore Reading and Berks County on two wheels.