
Lackawanna Rail Trail Pennsylvania
A scenic rail trail along the Chemung River, offering gentle grades for biking and walking, with mixed surfaces and varying maintenance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

Lackawanna Rail Trail Pennsylvania
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic rail trail along the Chemung River, offering gentle grades for biking and walking, with mixed surfaces and varying maintenance.
"Enjoy picturesque riverside scenery on this historic rail bed, perfect for a leisurely ride."

π₯Ύ Wear Appropriate Shoes
Surface varies from paved to gravel/dirt with root lifts. Good walking or biking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
ποΈ Pack a Trash Bag
Some sections can be littered. Help keep the trail clean by carrying out your trash. :wastebasket:

Quick Facts
Rating
3.9 Β· 7 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chemung River Views
Enjoy picturesque riverside scenery along this historic rail bed. A peaceful escape with natural beauty.

Historic Rail Bed
Experience a journey along a former railway line, offering gentle grades perfect for a leisurely ride.

Elmira Connection
The trail links Lowman to Elmira, passing by Eldridge Park and a Wegmans, offering convenient access and amenities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Surface
Trash & River Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Anyone have encounters with the Black Eyed Kids?
Does anyone have encounters with the Black Eyed Kids? Share your story! I would love to include real stories of folks who have encountered them on my upcoming tales from the road episode!
π₯Ύ Wear Appropriate Shoes
Surface varies from paved to gravel/dirt with root lifts. Good walking or biking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
ποΈ Pack a Trash Bag
Some sections can be littered. Help keep the trail clean by carrying out your trash. :wastebasket:
π Free Parking Available
Access points offer free parking, making it easy to start your journey. π
π΄ββοΈ Ideal for Biking
The gentle grades of the old rail bed are perfect for cycling. π²
Tips
from all over the internet
π₯Ύ Wear Appropriate Shoes
Surface varies from paved to gravel/dirt with root lifts. Good walking or biking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
ποΈ Pack a Trash Bag
Some sections can be littered. Help keep the trail clean by carrying out your trash. :wastebasket:
π Free Parking Available
Access points offer free parking, making it easy to start your journey. π
π΄ββοΈ Ideal for Biking
The gentle grades of the old rail bed are perfect for cycling. π²
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Lackawanna Rail Trail for its scenic Chemung River views and gentle, accessible grades ideal for biking and walking. However, the trail's maintenance is inconsistent, with varied surfaces including gravel and dirt, and some users note significant litter. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a valuable local resource for recreation.
"Nice ride along the Chemung river."
Danny
"Old trail with lots of root lifts. Construction randomly on the surface means some sections are gravel and dirt. Maintenance seems to be lacking. I was looking forward to this one for long uninterrupted mostly flat stretches. Walking or biking or probably fine. Inline skating not so much."
Tim Bergstrom
"As an old rail trail the grades are low. It's been paved and there is free parking at the access points. Some minimal signage is on trail to help navigate. The trail connects Lowman with Elmira and runs along the old rail bed into the city up to Wegmans where it continues to Eldridge Park. There are benches and points to secure your bicycle along the riverside portion east of Elmira. It's a bit noisy for the highway."
Malachi D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
π πΊοΈ Getting There
The trail has multiple access points with free parking, connecting Lowman to Elmira. Key access points are often found near the Chemung River and along the old rail bed. π
Information on public transportation directly to trailheads is limited. Driving and parking at designated access points is the most common method of access. π
Free parking is available at various access points along the trail. Check local maps for specific parking lot locations near your desired starting point. π ΏοΈ
The trail surface is mixed. Some sections are paved, while others are gravel or dirt. Be prepared for varied terrain. :road:
Yes, the trail runs through Elmira, connecting to areas like Eldridge Park and a Wegmans. You can find access points within the city. :cityscape:
π« π« Tickets & Entry
No, the Lackawanna Rail Trail is a public access trail and does not require any tickets or admission fees. It's free to use. ποΈ
As an outdoor public trail, it is generally accessible from dawn to dusk. There are no official operating hours, but it's best to visit during daylight. π
There is no entrance fee. The trail is free for all visitors to enjoy. :moneywithwings:
No permits are required for general recreational use of the trail. π
While not officially closed, visiting at night is not recommended due to lack of lighting and potential safety concerns. Stick to daylight hours. π
π« ποΈ Onsite Experience
The terrain is varied, featuring paved sections, gravel, and dirt paths. There are also some root lifts, making it less ideal for smooth inline skating but good for walking and biking. :hiking_boot:
Restroom availability can be limited and may depend on the specific access points or nearby parks. It's advisable to use facilities before you start your journey. π½
Yes, it's suitable for families, especially for walking and biking. The gentle grades are good for children, but be mindful of the varied surface and potential litter. :family_mm:
You might spot various birds along the river, and other common local wildlife. Keep an eye out during your exploration. π¦
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Please clean up after your pet. π
πΈ πΈ Photography
The sections along the Chemung River offer the most scenic photo opportunities. Look for bridges, river bends, and open vistas. :camerawithflash:
It can be challenging to take photos while actively biking due to the varied terrain. Consider stopping at scenic points or using a bike mount for your phone/camera. :iphone:
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best light for photography, especially along the river. π»
The trail itself is a historical structure as an old rail bed. While specific markers might be few, the overall landscape evokes a sense of history. :historic_building:
Drone usage regulations can vary by location and park. It's best to check local ordinances before flying a drone for aerial photography. :drone:
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit