Whether you are traveling to Montgomery County from one of its surrounding neighborhoods or traveling from out of state, Pennsylvania’s third largest county is filled with adventure, history and the arts. Complete with attractions both big and small, this portion of southeastern Pennsylvania is 100 miles south from New York City and 150 miles north from Washington D.C. MontCo opens its arms to visitors both near and far, and that includes are four-legged friends as well.
Complete with over 90 miles of trails, MontCo guests of all athletic abilities can put away their car keys for the weekend and jump on a bike to explore the county, in particular by using the bike-friendly Schuylkill River Trail.
Whether you are a history buff or just looking for a beautiful destination getaway, Montgomery County is the place to visit this summer or fall.
Pack up your helmet and bicycle – or better yet rent one – and get ready to explore MontCo on two wheels. Not sure where to start? The Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board has created this single day bike tour to explore MontCo. Pick out your favorite athleisure outfit, tie up your sneakers and get ready to explore. Be sure to keep your cell phones charged and share your selfies with us using #MakeItMontco.
10 a.m.
You’ll start your day at Valley Forge National Historical Park where you’ll park your car and jump on your bikes, or you can rent a bike through their bike rental program. Rates are $15 up to 2 hours/$10 for kids bikes or $25 for the day/$15 for kids bikes. Both rates also include a helmet and bike lock.
Bike Rental Dates Weather Permitting
June 3 – Labor Day
Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
September 9 – October 29
Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
10:30 a.m.
TWO HOURS | 5 MILES
Once you get on your bikes, you can enjoy a self-guided 5-mile loop of rolling hills at Valley Forge National Historical Park where you will see and learn the rich history and significance of this site which was the 1777-78 winter encampment of the Continental Army under General George Washington.
If you prefer to take an organized bike tour, the Encampment Store offers private bike tours every day that the bike rental stand is open with advanced reservation.
Your guide will meet you at the Visitor Center parking lot and lead you on a five mile, two hour tour where stops include the Muhlenberg Brigade Huts, The National Memorial Arch, Artillery Park and the Grand Parade.
12:30 p.m.
7 MILES
Once your brain is filled with historical knowledge, you will head east on the Schuylkill River Trail where the rest of your day will be filled with Philadelphia culture and cuisine. Depending on your mood, you will bike east into Conshohocken and enjoy a coffee treat or sip on a cocktail.
- Enjoy a cup of coffee or latte on the outside deck at Riverbend Cycles & Cafe. This coffee shop is conveniently located directly off the Schuylkill River Trail and is a common spot for those wanting to take a “break” from their workout. A dual bike shop and cafe, Riverbend Cycles proudly serves coffee roasted by local company Greenstreet Coffee Roasters in all of their espressos, drip and cold brewed beverages, in addition to tasty pastries.
- If you’re ready to enjoy a cocktail, get ready to relax with bicyclist of all skill levels at the Conshohocken Brewing Company - a neighborhood craft brewery with American styles, growler fills and a limited pub-grub menu. As you are pedaling on the Schuylkill River Trail, you can’t miss the brewing company as dozens of beer-drinkers are welcoming you from the outside deck overlooking the trail. If you happen to miss them, you’ll know you’ve arrived when you locate the brewery’s bike rack where nearly two dozen bikes will get a rest while their operators cool down with a cold, refreshing beer.
With full bellies and tired legs, your group will want to head back to Valley Forge National Historical Park to return your bikes and conclude your bike-filled day throughout Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties.
Make It A Weekend Stay
Want to make it a weekend in Montco? Book a room at one of Valley Forge’s 76 hotels and schedule reservations at one of Montgomery County’s 500 restaurants. With 54 public and private golf courses, more than 400 stores within the King of Prussia Mall, the Elmwood Park Zoo and over 90 miles of trails, Montgomery County is the perfect weekend destination for visitors of all ages.