Story submitted by American Planning Association, Pennsylvania Chapter
Photos by David Landis
The Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA-PA), through its Great Places in PA Program, annually designates Great Places. For 2025, five nominations achieved a Great Places designation: four Great Public Spaces and one Great Greenway/Trail or Preserve. This brings the number of Great Places designated since the Program’s inception in 2014 to 64. These Great Places, located in 35 of PA’s 67 counties, have a sustainable vision for the future and serve as a model for other communities. They are high-quality examples of successful planning efforts that build healthy and vibrant communities throughout the Commonwealth and promote the Chapter’s mission and vision.
APA-PA is proud to announce the designation of the Endless Mountains Gravel Bikepacking Loop (EMGBL) in Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Wyoming Counties as a 2025 Great Greenway/Trail in Pennsylvania. The EMGBL is an adventurous 430-mile cycling route winding through the scenic landscapes of northeastern Pennsylvania. It offers riders a blend of challenge and scenic landscapes. About 65% of the route is gravel or dirt, with the remaining portion on quiet paved roads. Riders experience over 42,000 feet of elevation gain, tackling varied terrain that tests endurance and skill. The loop brings riders to or near five state parks, a state forest, and the Susquehanna River North Branch Water Trail. Along the way, cyclists can also explore charming small towns, heritage sites, and local eateries, adding a cultural dimension to the ride. The availability of diverse lodging options makes the loop suitable for multi-day bikepacking trips. Wayfinding and interpretative signage inform riders as they travel along the route. To accommodate a more diverse group of cyclists, 15 to 20 shorter loops of 25 to 60 miles are incorporated.
Creation of the EMGBL, the first official bikepacking loop in Pennsylvania, was the brainchild of a cycling enthusiast and former Endless Mountain Heritage Area board member and Sullivan County Commissioner. With her encouragement, the Heritage Area teamed with county tourism agencies, the Northern Tier Regional Planning and Development Commission, and several avid cyclists to bring the project to fruition. Challenge events have attracted not only riders from the region, but also riders throughout Pennsylvania and beyond. Overall, the EMGBL has become an economic driver for the rural communities throughout the region. A symbol of endurance and exploration, the Endless Mountains Gravel Bikepacking Loop is a must-ride for gravel enthusiasts seeking a challenging and rewarding outdoor adventure.
The Endless Mountains Gravel Bikepacking Loop, together with four designated Great Public Spaces: Boyce Bouldering Park/Pump Track and Outdoor Discovery Center/Sensory Nature Trail (Allegheny County), River Common (Luzerne County), and the Zimmerman Center for Heritage (York County) comprise the slate of 2025 Great Places in PA. These Great Places demonstrate the rewarding results that occur through community partnerships, planning, and dedication. In recognizing the 2025 Great Places in PA, the Chapter also celebrates the many community leaders, officials, professionals, and residents who contribute to making the designated places “great.”