The best cycling routes around Hillsborough

The View of the D&R Canal – Carnegie Lake Dam loop from Manville offers a charming touring cycling adventure, guiding you along the historic D&R Canal and the Raritan River before circling the scenic Carnegie Lake. You'll pedal mostly on packed gravel and dirt, enjoying tree-shaded paths and the chance to spot diverse wildlife like ospreys and bald eagles. This moderate 26.9 miles (43.2 km) route, with a gentle 129 feet (39 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic way to spend about 2 hours and 42 minutes exploring central New Jersey's natural beauty.

To make the most of your ride, plan to start early, especially on weekends, as this popular route can get busy. The trail is easily accessible from Manville, and while the surface is generally good for hybrid bikes, some sections might be a bit rough, so be prepared for a few bumps. You won't need special permits, but always carry enough water, particularly on warmer days.

This loop is more than just a bike ride; it's a journey through a significant piece of New Jersey's past. The D&R Canal State Park is a National Recreation Trail, preserving 19th-century canal structures like locks and bridge tender houses. It also serves as a vital wildlife corridor and an Important Bird Area, offering a peaceful escape into nature and history.

The Carnegie Lake Dam loop from Montgomery Township offers a pleasant touring cycling experience, guiding you through a landscape of tranquil lake views, varied woodlands, and open meadows. You'll pedal along mostly paved surfaces, enjoying the gentle undulations of the Princeton area, with the historic Carnegie Lake Dam providing a picturesque focal point. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife, including bald eagles and great blue herons, especially around the lake's edges.

This moderate 27.8-mile (44.7 km) route, with its modest 253 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain, is a great option if you're looking for a longer ride that won't exhaust you, typically taking about 3 hours and 15 minutes. While the Montgomery Township cycling routes are generally accessible, having good fitness will make the distance more enjoyable. Spring and fall are ideal for this ride, offering comfortable temperatures and the chance to witness rowing regattas on the lake.

Carnegie Lake holds a unique place in history as the first lake in the U.S. built specifically for competitive rowing, a tradition that continues today. The area is also part of a broader effort by Montgomery Township to connect its parks and historic sites via an extensive network of multi-use pathways, enhancing the overall cycling experience in the region.

The Raritan Canal Towpath – Old East Jersey loop from Franklin High School offers a delightful touring cycling experience, tracing the historic D&R Canal through a blend of woodlands and river views. You'll glide past 19th-century bridges and remnants of old locks, immersing yourself in the region's past. The route is mostly paved, but expect some sections of finely crushed stone, making it a varied and engaging ride for those who appreciate history and nature.

Starting conveniently from Franklin High School, this moderate 29.8-mile (47.9 km) loop with a gentle 320 feet (97 metres) of elevation gain takes about 3 hours and 3 minutes. While generally easy due to its flat profile, the mixed terrain means a bike with at least 28mm tires is a good idea. There are no specific warnings about permits or closures, making it an accessible option for a spontaneous outing.

This trail is a significant part of the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park system, a National Recreation Trail that also forms a segment of the East Coast Greenway. It's a fantastic way to explore Central New Jersey's natural beauty and historical infrastructure, offering a peaceful, car-free environment perfect for wildlife spotting and a glimpse into the canal's 19th-century role as a transportation corridor.