NESQUEHONING BIKE TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Pedal the Lehigh Gorge: A Self‑Guided Ride Through Mountain Laurel and River Spray
Choose a 13‑ or 26‑mile self‑guided ride through Lehigh Gorge State Park — this guide compiles route choices, what to bring, and shuttle/check‑in details to plan your day.
Pedal the Lehigh Gorge: A Self‑Guided Ride Through Mountain Laurel and River Spray.
Pedal through the Lehigh Gorge near Jim Thorpe and the southern Pocono Mountains, following a flat, easy trail that threads the river’s edge and endless thickets of mountain laurel. On either a 13‑ or 26‑mile course you can stop to picnic at rest stations, cool off at the water’s edge and scan the trees for wildlife — a dry, bike‑based alternative to river trips that showcases the gorge’s mountain views and rushing river sounds.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Lehigh Gorge Scenery
The trail runs along the Lehigh River through thick stands of mountain laurel and open river views, offering continuous mountain scenery and the sound of rushing water.
Flexible 13‑ or 26‑Mile Options
Riders can opt for an easier 13‑mile outing or extend to a full 26‑mile self‑guided ride, both on an easy riding surface that suits experienced cyclists and those returning to the saddle.
Picnics, Wildlife and River Stops
Numerous rest stations along the trail invite lunch breaks and wildlife watching; bring binoculars and a picnic to make the most of the river‑side pauses.
What the day feels like
What the Ride Feels Like
The self‑guided tour is a relaxed, scenic day on a mostly flat, easy surface. You can rent a bike or use your own, turn a short outing into a picnic‑filled half‑day, or push the longer 26‑mile option for a longer venture through the gorge while listening to the Lehigh River run alongside.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Trips and shuttles operate in spring, summer and fall and are available by advanced reservation only. Check‑in windows are in the morning; 26‑mile shuttles are not scheduled after 11:00 am.
Bring a lunch for picnic stops, and consider binoculars for wildlife viewing. You may rent a bike from the operator or bring your own.
Plan to arrive for check‑in during the published window; shuttle availability affects which distance you can ride. The operator handles bike rentals and shuttles by reservation.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the self‑guided bike tour take?
The outing runs approximately 2–5 hours depending on whether you choose the 13‑ or 26‑mile option.
Where do I check in for the ride?
Check‑in is handled by the operator; check‑in times are available between 9:30 am and 12:00 pm.
Are shuttles available for the 26‑mile ride all day?
No — 26‑mile shuttles will not be scheduled after 11:00 am, so earlier check‑in is required for the longer distance.
When are bike trips and shuttles offered?
Bike trips and shuttles are offered in spring, summer and fall and require advanced reservation.
Can I rent a bike on site?
Yes — you may rent a bike from the operator or bring your own for the self‑guided tour.