Hunting seasons
Pennsylvania’s public lands are shared by many users, and hunting is a major seasonal activity across much of the state. Understanding when and where hunting occurs helps gravel riders make informed decisions that improve safety and reduce conflicts for everyone using the forest.
Seasonal Closures
State Game Lands are managed primarily to provide hunting opportunities; other recreational uses are secondary. Bicycles are prohibited on State Game Lands from the last Saturday in September thru the third Saturday in January, and before 1 p.m. from the second Saturday in April thru the last Saturday in May.
There are two exceptions, allowing bicycles on State Game Lands during this season:
Sundays (though be aware Sunday hunting is now permitted on many dates throughout this time period)
Roads open to public vehicle traffic
PLANNING TOOLS AND RESOURCES
The PA Game Commission app allows users to view current hunting seasons by species. To interpret this information correctly, riders must know the Wildlife Management Unit (WMU) they are traveling through.
The PA Game Commission Mapping Center is a valuable planning tool for gravel riders. It can help you:
Identify State Game Lands boundaries and Wildlife Management Units (WMU)
Determine which roads are open to public motor vehicle traffic (and therefore bicycles during restricted seasons)
Roads in BLACK are open to vehicle travel
Roads/trails in GREEN are designated routes for bicycles (allowed except in restricted seasons)
Understand how Game Lands intersect with state forests, municipal roads, and private property
You may encounter hunters on state game lands, state forest or national forest lands, or on private lands adjacent to public gravel roads. While hunting seasons vary by species and Wildlife Management Unit (WMU), some key timeframes to be aware of are:
Mid September to Late January - encompasses the most popular hunting seasons
Mid October to Late January - fall big game hunting with firearms
Early September - some migratory game birds and small game seasons start September 1.
Specific dates, arranged by species, can be found on the Pennsylvania Game Commission website.
The PA Game Commission mobile app is also a helpful resource for finding what is in season by date. It does require that you know what Wildlife Management Unit (WMU) you are riding in — the PGC Mapping Center can help you find that information as well as explore which roads and trails are open to cyclists.
tips for safe riding
wear orange
While traveling through State Game Lands, at least 250 square inches of fluorescent orange that is visible from 360 degrees is required during any firearms season. Wearing fluorescent orange is strongly recommended anytime you ride in wooded areas during hunting seasons, regardless of land ownership. “Hunter orange” is a widely recognized safety standard and signals visibility to hunters and other forest users.
know THE LAND YOU’RE ON
Land ownership and management can change frequently along gravel routes. Riders should be aware when they enter State Game Lands, where seasonal restrictions may apply.
Be especially cautious on less-developed forest roads. Hunters often use these roads to access hunting areas, sometimes traveling on foot or parking along the roadway.
COMMUNICATING WITH HUNTERS
Respectful, predictable behavior helps keep everyone safe:
Slow down and acknowledge hunters when passing
Avoid riding directly through active hunting areas when possible
If you are unsure about safety, politely ask whether it’s appropriate to proceed or if an alternate route is recommended
Clear communication and mutual respect reinforce the shared-use nature of Pennsylvania’s public lands.
