The best cycling routes around New London

There are over 20 touring cycling routes around New London, with 10 considered easy and 11 moderate. These routes traverse scenic landscapes, coastal areas, and diverse wetlands, offering options for various skill levels.

Touring cycling routes in New London offer diverse scenery, including significant waterways like the Thames, Mystic, and Lieutenant Rivers, coastal areas, and wetlands such as the Pattagansett Marshes. You'll find routes with river views, coastal paths, and trails through state parks like Rocky Neck State Park.

Yes, New London offers several easy touring cycling routes. An excellent option is the Pattagansett Marshes – Pattagansett Marshes loop from East Lyme, which is 14.1 miles (22.7 km) and winds through scenic marshes, perfect for observing local wildlife. Another easy choice is the Groton Long Point South Beach loop from Groton Long Point, covering 10.5 miles (16.9 km) along coastal areas.

Many routes offer access to interesting landmarks and natural features. You can pass by the Hoxie Scenic Overlook, offering views of the Mystic River, or explore areas near Harkness Memorial State Park. Other attractions in the region include the New London Harbor Lighthouse and the USS Nautilus (SSN-571).

For those seeking a longer, moderate ride, the Lieutenant River – Rocky Neck State Park loop from East Lyme is a great choice. This route spans 34 miles (54.7 km) and includes more elevation gain, offering a more extensive exploration of the region's natural beauty.

The touring cycling routes in New London are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from about 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic coastal paths, river views, and the variety of routes through wetlands and state parks.

Yes, the Hoxie Scenic Overlook – View of Mystic River loop from Groton Long Point is specifically designed to provide stunning views of the Mystic River. This moderate 17.3-mile (27.8 km) route is a popular choice for its picturesque scenery.

Absolutely. The Lieutenant River – Rocky Neck State Park loop from East Lyme integrates Rocky Neck State Park into its path, offering opportunities to explore this natural feature. Additionally, the Groton Long Point South Beach – Pond at Haley Farm State Park loop from Groton takes you near Haley Farm State Park.

The touring cycling routes around New London predominantly feature mostly paved surfaces. This makes them suitable for various types of touring bicycles and ensures a smooth ride for different skill levels.

Many of the touring cycling routes in New London are designed as loops, providing convenient circular journeys. Examples include the Pattagansett Marshes – Pattagansett Marshes loop from East Lyme and the Groton Long Point South Beach loop from Groton Long Point, allowing you to start and end at the same point.

The routes in New London generally feature gentle elevation changes. While some routes like the Hoxie Scenic Overlook – View of Mystic River loop from Groton Long Point include moderate elevation, many easy routes have minimal climbs, making them accessible for a wide range of cyclists.