Let’s start with an easy favorite.

Clue at Marianne parking lot: What color are the bike’s tires on the entry sign?

Where to park: From Rustic Acres head to Willow Lane just off US-322, where you’ll find a gravel trailhead parking area to the left at the entrance. O’Neils Quality Foods is also at the trailhead and they have amazing homemade cookies (hint, hint).

If you’re staying at Rustic Acres, here’s a little insider move—skip the car entirely. You can walk/bike straight from camp via Pine Terrace Rd and roll right onto the trail!

What it’s like: This is a smooth, paved rail-trail that stretches for 20 miles—perfect for biking, walking, families, and anyone easing into trail life. It’s flat, scenic, and just feels good to be on.

Traveling without your bike? No worries! At the trailhead there's a new app-based bike share program. Rentals cost $1.00 to unlock, then $5.00 per hour, using the Koloni app.

Why we love it: We’re a little biased since it connects to camp, but it’s one of those trails where you’ll see everyone—from kids learning to ride to seasoned runners putting in miles. It winds through farmland and woods, and you don’t have to commit to the full distance. There are plenty of access points like Lucinda and Leeper if you want to mix it up.

And honestly… part of the fun of riding the Route 66 Country Trail is the stops you can make along the way. This stretch blends peaceful miles with some seriously good food and drink, making it easy to turn your ride into a full day out. Dig into award-winning Texas-style barbecue at DB’s Smokin’ BBQ, or take a break at PA Mushroom Co. for wok-fired dishes and wood-fired pizza. If you’re ready to sit down and refuel, The Sawmill Restaurant delivers hearty comfort food and ice cream that hits just right after a ride. And if your timing lines up Thursday through Sunday, Lost in the Wilds Brewing is worth the stop for a cold craft beverage in a laid-back outdoor setting.

Before or after your ride on the Route 66 Country Trail, you can also stock up or round out your day with a few local essentials. Swing by Zacharel’s Country Market or O’Neils Quality Foods for farm-fresh goods, or stop into Route 66 Sporting Goods to grab any gear you might’ve forgotten. It’s all part of what makes this trail special—great riding paired with easy access to local food, drink, and small-town stops along the way.

Now if you’re ready to trade pavement for something a little more rugged…

Clue on US-322 Trailhead sign: Name the Eastern Terminus of the North Country Trail
Where to park: Look for a gravel pull-off on Old US-322 (south side of the highway) at Old U.S. 322 rd. The trail is tucked into the woods, so look for the trail sign (where your clue is).

What it’s like: This section is part of the North Country Trail—a 4,800 mile National Scenic Trail and you can feel it. It’s quieter, more natural, and a little more adventurous. Think wooded paths, rolling terrain, and fewer crowds.

Why we love it: This is the trail where you feel like you’ve really stepped into the woods. You can actually access it from Rustic Acres through State Game Lands if you’re up for a longer trek.

Follow the blue trail markers, bring water and snacks, and expect a few surprises—maybe even a stream crossing or wildlife. It’s not polished, and that’s exactly the point.

This one takes a little effort to find—but that’s part of its charm.

Clue on the trailhead sign: Name the teacher of the Vo-Tech Welding Class

Where to park (trust us on this): From Rustic Acres drive through Clarion on E Main St toward the university. After passing the main residence hall, take the next left after the upper parking lot into a lower lot (there’s no street name). When you’re in the lower parking lot look for a sign that says “Clarion Loop Trail Parking.” Once parked, the trailhead is tucked into the woods on the right.

If you hit N. Sheridan Rd on E Main St, you’ve gone too far. And fair warning—Google Maps isn’t reliable here.

What it’s like: A beautiful 3-mile loop that follows a stream through hemlock and pine forest, eventually opening up to the Clarion River. There are small waterfalls, changing scenery, and just enough elevation to keep things interesting.

Why we love it: About halfway in, you’ll hit the Clarion River—and it’s the kind of spot to relax and enjoy nature. There’s a bench, space to sit, and on a warm day, it’s hard not to dip your feet in.

What makes this one special is what comes after.

You’re just minutes from downtown, so you can go from trail shoes to lunch without missing a beat. Grab a meal at Daddy’s Main Street, Country Seat, Michelle’s Cafe, Clarion River Brewing Co., a drink at Mechanistic Brewing Co., or coffee at Michelle’s Cafe & Canyon Coffee Co. If you’re in the mood to wander, stop into Sparrow Books, F.L. Crooks & Co., Deja Me on Main—and don’t skip Dan Smith’s Candies on the way out.

This one is short—but incredibly meaningful.

Clue on left side introduction sign: What do the triangles on the cable alert walkers to?

Where to park:

Enter through Cook Forest from Forest Rd at the Sawmill Center for the Arts, then take the first left onto a dirt road, and follow it to a paved lot right at the trailhead. ADA parking is at the entrance.

What it’s like:

A 0.25-mile ADA-accessible loop with Braille signage, a guide cable, and a smooth path designed for all abilities.

Why we love it:

This trail’s just a really nice, peaceful way to get outside and slow things down for a bit. It’s clearly been put together with care, with sensory-focused signs that help you take in the sights, sounds, and feel of the forest instead of just rushing through. It’s especially great for kids too—gives them something fun and interactive to do while they’re learning about the woods along the way.

If you’re looking for something a little more laid-back, this is your spot.

Clue at 419 Arch St New Bethlehem: Name the animal family at the trailhead

Where to park: Head to 419 Arch St in New Bethlehem. This is the main trailhead, and you’ll find parking, information, and your clue all in one place.

What it’s like: A crushed limestone trail that follows Redbank Creek for 50 miles. It’s wide, peaceful, and perfect for a slower pace.

Why we love it: There’s just something about following the water—it sets the tone. You’ll pass through small towns, see public art, and find plenty of places to stop.

Before or after your ride, grab coffee at Canyon Coffee Company or a meal at Zach’s Farm to Table, Ever Moore’s Restaurant and Village Pizza & Subs in New Bethlehem.

This one’s all about the views—and a little bit of adventure. Okay, train tunnels!

Clue at Foxburg by trailhead: What color is the visitor center boxcar?

Where to park: There’s a large public lot in Foxburg. The trailhead sits at the far end. It can fill up on weekends, so getting there early helps. Overflow parking is available in the nearby neighborhood.

What it’s like: A paved rail-trail running alongside the Allegheny River, with bridges, sweeping views, and—yes—old train tunnels!

Why we love it: Riding this stretch along the Allegheny River is hard to beat—the scenery shifts around every bend, and the tunnels are really neat. Be sure to bring a light, as it gets pretty dark inside. It’s a classic Western Pennsylvania rail-trail experience and one of the highlights of the Allegheny River Trail from Foxburg.

Before or after your adventure, grab a riverside meal at Allegheny Grille, keep it casual with Foxburg Pizza, or relax on the patio at Foxburg Wine Cellars with live music most weekends. It’s an easy place to slow down, explore a few local shops, and enjoy the riverfront.

A little history, a little river, and a great small-town finish.

Clue at East Brady trailheads: Name the tunnel that bypasses East Brady

Where to park: You can park at the official trailhead off Shady Shores Dr (large dirt lot), but we recommend parking right in town at Brady St & Bridge St. There's a beautiful mural at the parking lot, clear trail access—and you’re steps from food when you’re done. Note: if you have an RV, large van or tow behind use the official trailhead lot.

What it’s like: A 52 mile long, crushed limestone trail running along the Allegheny River with wide-open views and historic railroad features.

Why we love it: This trail really opens up along the river, giving you those wide, easy views that show off the history and feel of the whole region. When you finish up, you’re right where you want to be—close to downtown, still along the water, with that classic Western PA river-town feel all around you.

Grab a sandwich and ice cream at The Old Bank Deli & Coffee Shoppe, settle in for a hearty breakfast with giant pancakes at Plaza Pantry, or wind the day down right on the river at Dock 9 Bar & Grill. It’s the kind of easygoing river finish that makes you slow down a bit and just enjoy where you’re at.