PENOBSCOT RIDGE
MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILIn 2005, Earth Conservancy completed work on its Penobscot Ridge Mountain Bike Trail. The area – 1,557 acres in all – encompasses large reclaimed tracts to the south of Wanamie, and conserved properties along Penobscot Ridge. The official 1.6-mile trail begins at one of two trailheads, both of which have parking and picnic facilities. There is a main riding path, generally easy to moderate, which is suitable for families. There are also many unofficial trails throughout the area as well. Overall, the combination of trails, open fields, woodlands, valley views, and non-dangerous mine features offer all users a varied, fun, and rewarding ride.
Getting There:
Both trailheads are located off West Kirmar Avenue in Nanticoke/Newport Township. From I-81, take Exit 164 to S.R. 29. Take Exit 2B (Alden) to South Valley Parkway. Stay on parkway to Middle Road, which becomes Kirmar. Parking is available at both trailheads.
- Eastern Trailhead | 41.175660, -76.026621
- Western Trailhead | 41.169070, -76.0470975
Download the printable map/brochure for the Penobscot Ridge Bike Trail. Trails are open from dawn to dusk.
In 2018, working in partnership with North Branch Land Trust, EC transferred the majority of the Penobscot lands – over 1,100 acres – to the Pennsylvania State Forest System through a DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Program grant. Visit PA DCNR’s Pinchot State Forest webpage for current information about the Wanamie tract and other recreational areas in the region.
Please Remember: Appropriate clothes and shoes (and socks!) should be worn for trail hiking. Rain gear – for unpredictable weather – is always a plus. Always bring water and easy trail foods like granola bars to keep in pockets or backpacks. Visit www.americantrails.org for more hiking tips.
Off-Season Use: Gates may be closed after November 1. Off-season trail use poses unique risks inherent when participating in outdoor recreation activities. Users assume all risk in recreating on EC properties.