Union Dale: Rail & Ridge via Ararat
22 miles | 966’ | 95% unpaved
Ride the Delaware & Hudson Rail-Trail from Union Dale to Ararat before returning along scenic Ridge Road, with panoramic overlooks and quiet gravel roads along the way.
This route is a great option for riders looking to avoid the long, steep climbs that are common throughout the Endless Mountains. It begins by following the Delaware & Hudson (D&H) Rail-Trail north from Union Dale, climbing gradually through forests and quiet countryside to the village of Ararat. The trail continues to a larger trailhead at the D&H high point, with parking and restrooms, where this route turns back before the rail trail becomes more remote.
If you'd like to extend your ride, continue two miles on the rail trail and exit on Willow Ave to Thompson, where you'll find Missy's Place, a popular local stop for food. Just one mile beyond town is the 380-acre Florence Shelly Preserve, a beautiful Audubon sanctuary known for its wetlands, birdwatching, and easy walking trails.
The return trip leaves the rail trail and follows scenic Ridge Road southbound. The gently rolling gravel road offers expansive views west across the Endless Mountains before descending through State Game Lands 236 and rejoining the rail trail for the final miles back to Union Dale.
Along the way, you'll also pass near Camp Bluestone and Fiddle Lake Farm Bed & Breakfast, two excellent lodging options for riders looking to turn the route into a relaxing overnight getaway.
Overall, this loop combines easy rail-trail riding with quiet gravel roads, panoramic ridge-top scenery, and a chance to explore the small rural communities that have long been part of northeastern Pennsylvania's railroad and agricultural landscape.
