I’ve always loved long, steady days in the saddle. As a result, bikepacking Pennsylvania had been on my bucket list for a few years. The idea of combining long-distance cycling with camping seemed like the perfect blend of adventure and self-sufficiency. So, when I finally decided to take the plunge, bikepacking the Pine Creek Rail Trail was the obvious choice for my first multi-day ride. This trail is known for its scenic beauty and gentle grade. It offered just the right balance of challenge and comfort for a newbie bikepacker like me.
Day 1: The Pre-Ride Prep
The first part of planning was making sure I had all my gear and supplies. I had already been camping for a few days in the area and was planning on starting my trip a little north of Jersey Shore, PA in a town called Blackwell. I was able to restock my supplies at the local general store, but hit a small snag in my plans. A tropical storm had passed through the area, leaving a lot of the pine creek rail trail flooded and some homes and businesses without power. I wasn’t sure if the path would be clear, but thanks to the help of social media, I was able to confirm the bike route was in good enough condition.
Day 2: Rolling to the Gorge
I started my journey at the Blackwell trailhead, about halfway between Jersey Shore and Wellsboro. My bike—fully loaded with panniers carrying camping gear, snacks, and extra layers—felt heavier than I expected. Still, the flat, crushed-stone surface made for smooth pedaling.
The scenery quickly swept me into the rhythm of the ride. Towering cliffs and some flowing waterfalls flanked the trail as it followed Pine Creek to the heart of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. The steady cadence of the ride was what I craved.
After about 30 miles, I reached the end of the rail trail, just north of Wellsboro. As of this trip, there wasn’t a direct rail trail into town, but was in the beginning stages of being built. Because of this, I had to ride a few extra miles north and take a fairly busy road south into the center of town. It was worth it because a stop for dinner and a plate full of chicken parmesan was exactly what I needed.
I still had about a dozen miles left to get to the PA Grand Canyon and my campsite at Leonard B. Harrison State Park. The day was dwindling and so were my legs – I knew I’d have to power through the last bit of climbing to get to the overlook before dark. As I made it to the top of the canyon and neared the campsite, I spotted Yellow Basket Ice Cream Shop. I quickly gobbled down a maple milkshake and pedaled on, hoping to hit the top of the Pine Creek Gorge at sunset. When I finally made it to the overlook, it took my breath away. The sun was setting and rain had just started to fall, creating a rainbow on the opposite side. I got my campsite and hammock set up via headlamp before heading to sleep.
Day 3: Gravel and Light Trespassing
I woke with the sun and a bit of stiffness in my legs but was eager to hit the trail. The stretch south from the campsite took me through some peak Pennsylvania farm county before meandering through some gravel roads in Tiadaghton State Forest. I came upon a road closure and decided that instead of backtracking my route (and potentially adding a LOT more miles) that I would hike-a-bike until I came out on the other side. Fortunately, this worked in my favor and I rode down into the Pine Creek Valley and picked up the rail trail just after the Tiadaghton stop.
I stopped for a much-needed milkshake at the Blackwell trailhead, a must-visit spot for trail travelers. I chatted with a couple of fellow bikepackers who were riding the entire trail in one day—a feat I admired but didn’t envy.
After dropping my riding partner at the car, I kept going until Slate Run, passing through Petticoat Junction – arguably the cutest camping spot on the Pine Creek rail trail.
Pine Creek Rail Trail Reflections
Bikepacking the Pine Creek Rail Trail was the perfect introduction to multi-day cycling adventures. The trail’s accessibility and occasional villages for supplies made it ideal for a first-timer.
Here are a few takeaways from my experience:
- • Pack light, but pack smart. Even on a relatively easy trail, weight adds up. Prioritize essentials and distribute the load evenly.
- • Hydrate and snack often. Long miles require consistent fueling. I relied on uncrustables, lots of water, and plenty of ice cream stops.
- • Slow down and enjoy the ride. The beauty of bikepacking is in the journey, not the speed. Take time to enjoy the overlooks, wildlife, and charming villages along the way.
I know this won’t be my last bikepacking adventure. With so many rail trails and backcountry routes in Pennsylvania, I’m already eyeing my next ride. But the Pine Creek Rail Trail will always hold a special place as my first bikepacking experience.
Have you bikepacked the Pine Creek Rail Trail or other PA routes? Share your favorite sections or tips in the comments!