Paved Multi-Use Trail

The paved multi-use trail at Ridley Creek State Park follows Sycamore Mills Road and Forge Road through woods, past farm fields and along Ridley Creek. It is the park's easy, flat-enough option for walkers, joggers, strollers, bicycles and e-bikes. DCNR's hiking page lists the Sycamore Mills Road Trail as a 4.3-mile paved loop; its biking page counts about 5 miles of paved trail. Park in lots 7, 11, 15 or 17. Bikes are allowed here and nowhere else in the park's trail system.

Where to Park

DCNR's biking page names parking lots 7, 11, 15 and 17 as the access points for the trail. Its accessibility page adds the mansion lot and lots 12 and 14. The mansion lot also has the park's two-plug electric vehicle charging station (Parking & Directions).

What the Trail Is Like

DCNR rates the Sycamore Mills Road Trail "easiest," its gentlest rating, and describes it as a paved route through the woods, by the agricultural fields and next to Ridley Creek, with good views and good fishing. It is a loop, so you can start at any of the access lots and come back to your car.

On the way you pass the old mill village of Sycamore Mills and the creek's catch-and-release fly-fishing stretch, which runs from the Sycamore Mills Dam to the mouth of Dismal Run (Fishing).

Biking Rules

• Bicycles and e-bikes are allowed on park roads and on this paved trail. They are prohibited on every unpaved hiking trail at Ridley Creek.
• Pennsylvania law requires riders under 12 to wear an approved helmet.
• Keep to a safe speed and obey posted limits; the trail is shared with walkers, runners and families.
• E-bikes must follow DCNR's statewide e-bike guidelines.

Bikes are not allowed on Ridley Creek's dirt trails. DCNR's nearby-attractions page lists mountain biking among Marsh Creek State Park's activities.

Accessibility

DCNR's accessibility page lists this as the park's accessible trail and suggests it for wildlife viewing. An ADA-accessible fishing platform sits along the trail; to drive to it, get a vehicle permit at the park office. ADA picnic tables are next to the fishing platform, reached through the Barren Road gate.

Good For

• Bike rides with children.
• Strollers and anyone who wants a smooth, paved surface.
• Running: it is paved and loops back to the start.

Maybe Skip If

• You want woods and quiet single-file trail: take the White Trail or Yellow Trail.
• You want a long road ride: the loop is only a few miles.

In Winter

DCNR designates the trail for cross-country skiing when snow covers it (Winter).