Four Montgomery County bike trails are among the 21 best trails in the Philadelphia region that are sure to appeal to hobby cyclists and those out for a real cardio workout by spinning through some significant mileage. Bailey King saddled up to report the story in Philadelphia Magazine.

Pedalers interested in a day-long, high-cardio ride should head to the Perkiomen Trail.

Most of the path is 10–12 feet wide, plenty of room to navigate the route with runners and dog walkers. But the surface is crushed-stone, which will increase the needed oomph per sprocket-turn and number of rotations to move forward at a good clip. For the most part, there’s no gliding.

The route is primarily north-south from Collegeville to Green Lane. First timers will want to know of a large hill in the neighborhood of Spring Mountain. Its steepness calls for some major chugging, and unfortunately, it’s the same challenge in either direction. Anticipating a nice glide down on the return trip isn’t going to happen.

But overall, it’s a very pleasant trail. On it, rides spin through open fields and wooded hillsides and run into plenty of watering hole trailheads alongside the Perkiomen Creek.

A shorter outing is possible at Valley Forge National Historical State Park, where a terrific ride can be navigated in about an hour or two, depending on pace and stops. The park offers 19 miles of authorized biking trails, many of which are paved and flat. And they put some of the iconic historic spots — the National Memorial Arch, the Mulenberg Brigade huts — a kickstand flick away from a short visit.

Meanwhile, Forbidden Drive is ideal for street bikers who would like to get close to nature. It offers gorgeous views, shade from the sun, and several easy access points.

Finally, the Manayunk Towpath, a portion of the 22-mile Schuylkill River Trail, is the place to visit for a day ride and the opportunity for an outdoor lunch intermission.

Read more about the best local bike trails in Philadelphia Magazine.