NEPA’s Mountain Bike Trails: Rugged Terrain & Scenic Beauty
If you’re a mountain biking enthusiast looking for diverse mountain bike trails and epic rides, Northeastern Pennsylvania has you covered. From rocky technical trails to smooth singletrack weaving through lush forests, NEPA offers something for every rider looking for adventure on two wheels. Whether you’re an experienced mountain biker or a weekend warrior exploring new terrain, the region’s mix of local trails and state parks provides a playground of trails, climbs and descents that will test your skills.
From tackling the rocky climbs of Merli-Sarnoski Park, cruising through the forests of Prompton State Park in the Pocono Mountains, or enjoying a laid-back ride at Frances Slocum, NEPA’s mountain biking trails are ready to welcome you for your next adventure. Grab your helmet, pump up your tires and hit the trails!
Blue Mountain Bike Park in Palmerton offers Pennsylvania’s highest vertical drop and over 25 lift-served downhill mountain biking trails for all skill levels — from beginner-friendly green trails with dirt berms and rollers to expert black diamond trails with steep, rocky descents and large jumps. Rentals, lessons, and a high-speed lift make it easy to gear up and hit the mountain.
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The Dick & Nancy Eales Nature Preserve at Moosic Mountain offers a premier mountain biking experience in Northeastern Pennsylvania. With over 27 miles of trails traversing a unique highland plateau, riders can expect a mix of rocky terrain, fast descents and technical climbs. Notable routes include the challenging 12-mile Moosic Mountain Big Tour with 1,000 feet of elevation gain and the Blueberry Trail, which rewards riders with stunning views of the Lackawanna Valley.
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Mountain biking at Gardner Spencer Preserve in Dalton offers about 2.6 miles of well-maintained trails winding through scenic meadows and hemlock groves. Highlights include the unique “Tunnel Vision” chute, a trail section surrounded by spruce trees. Trails are part of the Countryside Conservancy network and accessible via the Ziegler Preserve Trailhead on PA Route 438.
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Merli-Sarnoski Park in Lackawanna County’s Fell Township offers about 15 miles of rugged, rocky single-track mountain bike trails perfect for experienced riders. With steep climbs, technical rock gardens and nearly 3,000 feet of elevation change, trails like “Squeezeplay” and the black diamond “Twister” provide a challenging and rewarding ride for skilled riders.
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Moon Lake State Forest Recreation Area in Hunlock Creek is a go-to spot for mountain bike enthusiasts in NEPA, offering over 20 miles of diverse singletrack that’s as fun as it is challenging. From rocky, root-filled trails like “5858” and “Nightmare” to flowy favorites like “Moonshine,” the terrain can suit mellow cruises or adrenaline-fueled rides.
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Mountain biking at Ziegler Preserve in Dalton offers a scenic and moderately challenging experience. The preserve features a mile-long singletrack trail that winds through mature woods and historic stone walls, connecting to Lackawanna State Park’s Bull Hill Trail. This trail is suitable for intermediate riders and is accessible from the gravel parking area on PA Route 438, about a mile east of the Route 407 intersection.
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The Black Diamond Trailhead in Wright Township is the starting point for an 11-mile scenic stretch of the Delaware & Lehigh Trail. This mostly downhill route winds through state forest, past lakes, beaver dams, and wildflowers, offering a smooth, canopied ride suitable for all skill levels. It’s perfect for riders looking for a relaxing yet beautiful mountain biking experience.
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Camelback Mountain’s South Trail in Big Pocono State Park offers a challenging 3-mile route for mountain bikers, featuring steep, rugged terrain and scenic vistas of the Delaware Water Gap. The trail traverses the southern slopes of Camelback Mountain, providing a rewarding ride through mixed hardwood forests.
Learn MoreMountain Bike Trails at NEPA’s State Parks
Twelve of Northeastern PA’s state parks offer mountain biking trails, each with its own mix of terrain, scenery and outdoor perks. Whether you’re chasing flowy forest loops, technical climbs, or gravel connectors with epic views, these parks deliver. You’ll find miles of singletrack at parks like Lackawanna and Prompton, rocky challenges at Promised Land and wide, easygoing paths at Frances Slocum—perfect for a more laid-back ride or family outing.
But the ride doesn’t stop at the trail’s end. Many of these parks offer lakes, picnic areas, boat launches, hiking trails and camping options, so it’s easy to make a day—or a whole weekend—out of your visit. From beginner-friendly routes to demanding backwoods loops, NEPA’s state parks invite you to explore the outdoors one ride at a time.
12 NEPA State Parks with Epic Mountain Biking Trails
Mountain Biking Tips for NEPA Trails
- Prepare for rocky terrain: Many NEPA trails feature rocky sections, roots, and natural obstacles. A full-suspension or hardtail bike with good tires is recommended.
- Bring layers: Weather can change quickly in NEPA, especially in higher elevations, so dress in layers.
- Hydrate and fuel up: Trails can be long and challenging—carry enough water and snacks.
- Respect trail etiquette: Yield to hikers, announce your presence when passing, and stick to designated trails to preserve the natural environment.
- Check trail conditions: Many parks post updates online or at trailheads, so check ahead for closures or maintenance.
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