Hopewell Park Trails: A Young Gem in Danville, Pennsylvania’s Mountain Biking Scene

Quick Overview

• Distance: 6 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Network
• Location: Danville, Pennsylvania

Trail Description: Finding Your Flow at Hopewell

New to the Danville mountain biking community, Hopewell Park Trails opened its routes to public on September 6, 2014. The product of a month-long labor of love by about 10 volunteers, the trails offer a smooth, flowing ride with just the right amount of challenge for intermediate and advanced riders. With features like banked turns, moderate hills, and a downhill section, these trails were conceived to bring a varied yet coherent riding experience. For history buffs, the trail even starts out on an old railroad bed, paying homage to the area's past.

Trail Characteristics: An Overview

• Multi-use recreation area: Open for day and night riding.
• Seasonal Closures: Be aware that the trails are closed on certain Saturdays for hunting.
• Terrain: Moderately hilly with some downhill and banked turns.
• Special Areas: Includes a jump park and flow trails.

Navigation: Room for Improvement

The trail currently sports arrow signs from a previous race event, making it easier to navigate. However, without these temporary markers, riders have found it challenging to determine the direction of traffic. Improved signage is highly recommended for the convenience of future users.

Accessibility: How to Get There

Located directly across from Sheetz in Danville, parking is available at Myron Hopewell Memorial Park. With its proximity to other renowned trail systems like Geisinger Woodbine, it’s an easy stop for those already in the Danville, Pennsylvania area.

Community Insights: What the Riders Say

• Challenging Climbs: The trails offer climbing opportunities for those seeking a cardio workout.
• Variable Conditions: The condition of the trails can differ significantly based on recent maintenance.
• Safety Concerns: Given the trail’s fast nature, attention is advised for hidden stumps and obstacles near the trail edges.
• Ecological Impact: Maintained with minimal disruption to the local ecology, making for great birding and herping spots.

Future Prospects: Looking Ahead

Though only a year old, the Hopewell Park Trails system shows tremendous promise and is expected to get better with ongoing improvements. Phase II is in the pipeline, and there's a general sense of anticipation among the mountain biking community.

Conclusion: Hopewell's Niche in the Danville Scene

Hopewell Park Trails might not be for everyone, but it has certainly found its niche. With its fast, flowing tracks and the additional benefit of being open for night riding, it’s a great option for those seeking a unique and flexible biking experience in Danville, Pennsylvania.