Capital Area Greenbelt — Attraction in Swatara Township

Ever since we found out my trunk bike carrier works on our SUV late this summer, we've fervently explored biking trails around the Harrisburg area before the season's over.  One of the first things that came to mind would of course be the Capital Area Greenbelt.  It's a 23 mile route interconnecting paved paths, crushed-stone trails, and public roads.  We've only explored 3 different segments of the Greenbelt.

The first is City Island and Riverfront Park. Start by looping around the small island which is less than a mile but think of it as a warm up. You also get to see some touristy highlights such as the Pride of the Susquehanna Riverboat, Water Golf, and City Island Railroad.  Then cross the picturesque Walnut Street Bridge, turn left on to my favorite segment so far, the Riverfront Park. This paved segment runs for 3 miles alongside the Susquehanna River all the way to Vaughn St.  Along the way you get to see many sculptures and historic landmarks. Some highlights include State Street, Governor's Mansion, Peace Garden, and Sunken Garden. And if you're open to excursions, take detours and check out the Capitol Complex and Italian Lake.

The second segment we've been frequenting without realizing it's part of the Greenbelt - Wildwood Park. I've had a 5-star review on it. It's one of  my favorite parks in the Harrisburg area.  I've read that there's a new 1.5 mile segment connecting from Wildwood Park to Fort Hunter.  I can't wait to check that out!

The third segment we just tried today, the Andrea Ave Spur.  It's not part of the main loop but still part of the Greenbelt. I guess you can think of it as an extension, much like the Fort Hunter segment.  This one starts out on a crushed-stone path but soon turns into a fully paved trail. It's only 2.3 miles to the main loop near the Farm Show complex, but it's hilly and punishing at times.

This is a different experience than, say, a rail trail which is more secluded and allows you to be soaked with nature.  Here you do not completely leave civilization. Another negative aspect is that many sections insolve public roads.  I'm not sure I should venture the southeast portion of the Greenbelt, based...

The ride is excellent. Mostly it’s on paved surfaces, some unpaved and some just a bit challenging. A gravel bike (I was riding my Specialized Diverge with Pirelli 40 mm M tread tubeless) is useful, but I’m sure a good rider on a road bike with 28 or 30 mm tires would be fine. The scenery and views along the river and in the woods are wonderful. The climbs in the woods are an absolute bear! My one by GRX set up ran out of gears 3 times. Most of the signage is good but a few spots need more signs to reassure you, and one arrow was completely wrong and I wasted a half mile before I realized it. The southern end along the river needed some absent detour signs. These problems were acknowledged by the stalwart in charge of the signs. I was informed that the detail signs had been neglected by the crew due to rain 🤔. Generally it was great. Note to the wise, State street provides a bridge over the deep gorge where the railroad runs . Other routes actually take the innocent under the rail, and the climb back up the East side is truly brutal, so use State street when you can. I admit to being a transplanted Miami rider, but...

Very nice and well maintained trail. We loved it!! This was our second time on this trail. We parked and began our 20 mile bike ride loop from the City Island and crossed the awesome old bridge. The beginning of the trail was on the sidewalk along the river (today it was 46 degrees. Cold!!) There are many road crossings. The trail is well marked at most locations. There are some bathrooms along the way, and about 98% of the trail is asphalt. There is city and some forested areas, with a great mix of interesting things to see. We will be riding this trail again, for sure. One thing I failed to mention is that there are some challenging hills. If I did not have my new Trek ebike, I would have had to walk a good bit up the hills. ...