The best road cycling routes around New Milford

Road cycling around New Milford, nestled in the Litchfield Hills, offers a diverse landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, and scenic routes along the Housatonic River and Candlewood Lake. You'll find well-paved rural roads with varied elevation profiles, ranging from gentle gradients to more challenging ascents.

There are over 140 road cycling routes available around New Milford, catering to various skill levels. This includes more than 50 easy routes, over 70 moderate routes, and several challenging options for experienced cyclists.

Yes, New Milford offers numerous easy road cycling routes. For instance, the Downtown Piermont – Old Mountain Road North loop from Dumont is an easy 28.8-mile path featuring rural roads and scenic views with a moderate elevation profile. Another option is the Oradell Reservoir loop from Dumont, which is approximately 28.5 miles long and also considered easy.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Downtown Piermont – 9W Market loop from River Edge offer significant elevation gain over its 49-mile distance. The Putnam Trail loop from River Edge is another moderate to challenging option, covering 49.1 miles with notable climbs.

Road cycling routes in New Milford often pass by beautiful natural features and landmarks. You might encounter scenic views of Candlewood Lake, the Housatonic River, and various parks and preserves. Notable highlights include the Oradell Reservoir, Wild Duck Pond, and viewpoints like Point Lookout and Alpine Lookout, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Yes, some routes may lead you near historical sites. For example, you might find yourself close to The Cloisters or the charming The Little Red Lighthouse, depending on the specific route you choose. These offer interesting stops to explore the region's heritage.

The road cycling routes around New Milford are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average rating of 4.7 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's varied terrain, scenic beauty, and the well-maintained rural roads that make for an enjoyable riding experience.

The Litchfield Hills, including New Milford, are particularly beautiful during the autumn months when the foliage displays vibrant colors, making for a stunning backdrop to your ride. Spring and summer also offer pleasant conditions, with lush greenery and comfortable temperatures, though summer can be warmer. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Many of the road cycling routes in New Milford are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the 9W Market – Downtown Piermont loop from Oradell and the Putnam Trail loop from River Edge, providing convenient circular journeys.

Riding through the Litchfield Hills offers a picturesque experience with diverse scenery. You'll encounter rolling hills, dense forests, and tranquil stretches alongside the Housatonic River and Candlewood Lake. The region's protected open spaces, such as Sunny Valley Preserve, also contribute to the natural beauty you'll witness.

The roads circling Lake Waramaug are renowned for their scenic beauty, especially during autumn, offering partially shaded routes with beautiful lakeside views. Additionally, areas around Lover's Leap State Park provide dramatic overlooks of the Housatonic River gorge, which can be incorporated into longer rides.