The best cycling routes in Rockland County

Rockland County offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes. There are over 60 routes available, catering to different preferences and skill levels.

The routes in Rockland County offer a diverse range of challenges. You'll find 21 easy routes, 20 moderate routes, and 19 difficult routes, ensuring options for every cyclist from beginners to experienced riders.

Rockland County is renowned for its stunning scenery. Many routes offer picturesque views of the Hudson River, especially in areas like Piermont, Nyack, and Haverstraw. You'll also encounter dense woodlands, rugged mountains like the Palisades, and tranquil lakes such as Lake DeForest and those within Harriman State Park.

Yes, Rockland County has several options suitable for families. Easy routes like the Tides of Tarrytown – Painters Point loop from Village of Nyack offer gentler terrain. The Hudson River Greenway Trail, particularly the section at Nyack Beach State Park, provides a flat, multi-use path along the river, perfect for a relaxed family ride. The Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail is another excellent choice for a smooth, car-free experience.

Absolutely. Many touring routes in Rockland County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular examples include the Lake DeForest Loop, the challenging Seven Lakes Drive Loop, and The Lakes Loop, which takes you through varied terrain and past multiple bodies of water.

Rockland County's routes pass by several interesting landmarks. You might cycle near the historic Bear Mountain Bridge, enjoy the Hudson River Waterfront Trail at Nyack Beach State Park, or even discover the scenic Peanut Leap Cascade. Many routes also traverse or offer views of the expansive Harriman and Bear Mountain State Parks.

Yes, Rockland County is dotted with beautiful lakes that feature prominently in many cycling routes. The Lake DeForest Loop is a prime example. Other routes, like the Seven Lakes Drive Loop, offer stunning views of multiple lakes, including Lake Tiorati and Lake Sebago, within Harriman State Park.

The touring cycling routes in Rockland County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 stars from 32 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from river views to challenging mountain climbs, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various skill levels.

For those seeking longer rides, Rockland County offers routes that can be combined or are substantial on their own. The View from Bear Mountain Summit – Perkins Memorial Tower loop from Nanuet is a challenging 56-mile (90 km) route with significant elevation gain, providing a full day's adventure. The shared-use path across the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge also allows for extended rides into Westchester County.

Many state parks in Rockland County, such as Nyack Beach State Park, Rockland Lake State Park, and Harriman State Park, offer designated parking areas that serve as convenient starting points for cycling routes. Additionally, some trailheads for shared-use paths like the Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail have parking facilities.

Yes, Rockland County's bike-friendly infrastructure includes options for refreshments. Towns along the Hudson River, such as Nyack and Piermont, offer various cafes and dining spots. You might also find specific cyclist-friendly stops like the 9W Market, known among cyclists, along some routes.

Rockland County is accessible by public transport, which can help you reach various starting points for cycling routes. While specific bike-on-train/bus policies vary, you can often use local bus services or Metro-North Railroad to get to towns within the county, from where you can begin your ride or connect to a trail.