Navigating NEPA’s Muddy Season: Mountain Biking on the Back Mountain Trail
Late winter and early spring in NEPA—a ‘season’ known for presenting a challenge to mountain bikers riding designated mountain bike trails in NEPA. The forest floor starts its seasonal phase of thaw and freeze, repeating and leaving the trails muddy. This leaves us patiently waiting for consistent wind and warmer temperatures to dry them out. Conditions such as these leave trails vulnerable to damage, so it’s best to avoid riding them until conditions are desirable. A great option to still get some off-road riding is the Back Mountain Trail.
The Back Mountain Trail is a 5.6-mile dirt/gravel double-wide trail that runs between Luzerne and Dallas, with a slight, steady grade increase when starting in Luzerne and traveling towards Dallas; in return, you get a slight, steady decrease in elevation on the way back. The Back Mountain Trail is not a loop; this is an out-and-back trail, meaning if you ride 5 miles out, you will need to ride 5 miles back. Plan accordingly.
The Back Mountain Trail is well-traveled with walkers, hikers, joggers and bicyclists. You will encounter people walking their dogs as well, so please be mindful of this when approaching from behind. It’s appreciated if you slow your speed and announce your approach to your fellow trail enjoyers so as not to startle them.
The Back Mountain Trail parallels the Memorial Highway, but the sights of the trail will distract you from feeling so close to the ‘hustle.’ Just about a mile into the trail (starting from Luzerne), there is a bridge with a beautiful view of a waterfall. It’s a great spot for that perfect selfie! I love to stop here for a few moments to watch the water crash into the rocks beneath. I am fairly confident that anyone traveling this path with a camera or smartphone will have a photo of this waterfall in their album.
As you continue on the trail, you’ll also enjoy a mellow creek, wildflowers and winding views, along with the feeling of being in the dense woods. If you so choose, the trail offers just enough elevation increase to allow you to feel like you’re getting a workout in with a bit of effort—or you can just take your time and enjoy the ride. You’ll pass benches with badges that tribute/memorialize local community members and families, which is a nice connection to the local community. There are a couple of ‘rough’ and short, steep sections of the trail that may require some to dismount their bicycle and walk, but these are minimal over the entirety of the trail.
As you reach the trail’s end in Dallas, it’s a nice reward to turn around and ride in reverse. The slight and steady decline makes the ride back almost effortless.
Know Before You Go
Parking and Trail Access:
108 Parry St – Luzerne
Harris Hill Road – Trucksville
Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk, a jog, or a bike ride, the trail offers a smooth surface for all types of adventurers. Easily accessible with parking at both ends, it’s the perfect spot to escape into nature.
