22 in ‘22 Guided Trail Rides

There are approximately 22 scenic, car-free, bike paths in the region. Let’s explore them all together!  Bike every trail and fill out your passport along the way. Each trail is less than a 2-hour drive from Pittsburgh and we’ll bike between 10 – 24 miles.  Best of all, each ride includes a discussion of the landscape and history by Earth Science Excursions, LLC geologist Fred Zelt. 

Want to explore further? Check out the Wilds Weekends, where we’ll bike into the Pennsylvania Wilds. 

Trip #17: Laurel Highlands gem – The Indian Creek Valley Bike Trail 

Let’s explore the western Indian Creek Valley, from Indian Creek Reservoir to the Youghiogheny River Gorge.  We will cycle 10 miles on this beautiful trail among forest and rock formations, accompanied by the rushing sound of cascades, rapids and small waterfalls on lovely Indian Creek below.  Near the start we will cycle along calm reservoir waters then view the cascade at Indian Creek Reservoir dam.  Next we will cycle the rail trail into and out of the gorge at a leisurely pace.  The trails are gravel.  Steep drop-offs beside the trail and the 4-mile, 300 foot vertical climb from the turnaround at the Youghiogheny River back to the start make this excursion less than ideal for very young cyclists. 

Not ideal for young cyclists. Pets in carriers and e-bikes are welcome.  If you want to do a shorter trip by heading back before the group turnaround, that is possible too. 

Bicycle helmets are required.  The week before the excursion we will send those who have registered an email with more information about the path we will be cycling, what to bring and exactly when and where to meet at the start.  If you want to rent a bike, we can recommend a bike rental and help transport up to three bikes.  This trip is offered in partnership with Earth Science Excursions, LLC.