The best road cycling routes in Putnam County

Putnam County offers a wide variety of road cycling routes, with over 60 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult options.

Road cycling in Putnam County features diverse terrain, ranging from mostly flat, paved paths to routes with significant elevation changes. You'll find smooth roads, dedicated trailways, and some routes that include challenging climbs, offering a versatile experience for all fitness levels.

Yes, Putnam County has several easy road cycling routes, with 14 designated as easy on komoot. A good option for beginners is Maybrook Trailway – Maybrook Trailway loop from Brewster, which is a shorter, mostly flat ride. Another easy route is The Pine Bridge Monument – Quiet resting spot loop from Mahopac.

For those seeking a challenge, Putnam County offers 12 difficult road cycling routes. The Empire State Trail: Hudson Valley Loop is a demanding 119 km route with significant elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Bear Mountain Climb – Lake Welch Beach loop from Garrison, known for its substantial climbs.

Yes, a major highlight for cyclists is the Putnam County Trailway. This paved 12-mile (19 km) path follows a former railroad right-of-way, offering a scenic and mostly flat route ideal for road cycling. It connects to the North County Trailway and is part of the statewide Empire State Trail.

Many routes offer picturesque views of the Hudson River, crystal lakes, and farmlands. You might encounter historic sites like the Cornish Estate Ruins (North Gate) or enjoy dramatic vistas from areas like View of the Hudson River from Breakneck Ridge. The region's natural beauty, including the Great Swamp and Clarence Fahnestock State Park, also provides stunning backdrops.

Yes, Putnam County features numerous loop routes for road cyclists. Examples include the Maybrook Trailway – Whaley Lake loop from Brewster, the Whaley Lake – Walkway Over the Hudson loop from Patterson, and the shorter Quiet resting spot loop from Brewster.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for road cycling in Putnam County, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Fall, in particular, is popular for its stunning foliage. While winter cycling is possible, be mindful of colder temperatures and potential snow or ice on routes.

Many road cycling routes in Putnam County have accessible parking options, particularly near trailheads and in charming villages. For instance, routes starting from Brewster or Patterson often have convenient parking facilities, including park-and-ride lots.

Yes, Putnam County is conveniently located just an hour north of Midtown Manhattan and is accessible via multiple Metro-North stops. This makes it easy for cyclists to reach various starting points for routes, especially those near towns like Cold Spring or Brewster.

The road cycling routes in Putnam County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, scenic landscapes, and the well-maintained dedicated trailways like the Putnam County Trailway.

For families, the paved and mostly flat Putnam County Trailway is an excellent choice. Its gentle gradients and scenic environment make it suitable for riders of various ages and skill levels, providing a safe and enjoyable experience.

While popular routes can see more traffic, exploring some of the less-traveled local roads or specific segments of longer routes during off-peak hours can offer a quieter experience. The eastern parts of the county, characterized by crystal lakes and farmlands, might also provide more serene cycling environments.