The best road cycling routes around Catskill

There are over 35 road cycling routes available around Catskill, catering to various skill levels. These include easy loops, moderate paths, and challenging long-distance rides with significant elevation changes.

The Catskill region offers a diverse range of routes. You'll find 8 easy routes, 19 moderate routes, and 10 difficult routes, ensuring options for beginners and experienced cyclists alike. The terrain varies from tranquil rural roads to formidable mountain climbs.

The Catskills are ideal for road cycling from spring through fall. Spring offers fresh greenery, while summer provides warm weather for longer rides. Autumn is particularly scenic with vibrant foliage, though cooler temperatures and potential for rain should be considered.

Yes, the Catskills feature several long-distance options. For a challenging ride, consider the Clermont State Historic Site – Claverack Creek Waterfall loop from Olana State Historic Site, which spans nearly 200 km with over 1300 meters of elevation gain. Other routes like the Claverack Creek – Views of Nassau Lake loop from Hudson also offer significant distances.

Absolutely. The Catskills are renowned for their demanding climbs. Platte Clove Road, also known as 'Devil's Kitchen,' is particularly famous for its steep 1.5-mile ascent with grades exceeding 16%. Other challenging areas include Mohonk Road and the Peekamoose/Slide Mountain Roads in the southern Catskills, offering long ascents and descents.

Road cycling routes in the Catskills offer breathtaking scenery, winding through charming farm country, alongside rivers like the Schoharie Creek and Esopus Creek, and past picturesque valleys. You can also expect views of towering mountains, lush forests, and serene lakes. Many routes provide panoramic vistas of the diverse landscape.

Yes, several routes offer views of natural features. The Claverack Creek Waterfall – Albany-Hudson Electric Trail loop from Hudson passes by the Claverack Creek Waterfall. The region is also home to stunning natural features like Kaaterskill Falls, a dramatic 260-foot, two-stage waterfall, and serene North-South Lake.

Many routes pass by interesting landmarks. You might encounter historical sites like the Barnyard or enjoy views from the Hudson River Skywalk and Rip Van Winkle Bridge. The region's scenic byways also connect to various historical sites and recreational areas.

Yes, the Catskills offer several family-friendly options, particularly on dedicated rail trails. The Catskill Scenic Trail is a 26-mile, mostly flat, gravel trail suitable for all levels, and the Ashokan Rail Trail provides an almost 12-mile flat, scenic ride alongside the Ashokan Reservoir. There are also 8 easy road cycling routes available.

Many of the road cycling routes in the Catskills are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Roadbike loop from Village of Athens and the All Souls Church – Gothic Church loop from Town of Catskill.

Outfitters like Windham Mountain Outfitters offer assistance with routes, aid, and bike mechanics, and often organize group rides during the summer. You can typically find bike shops in larger towns within the Catskill region for repairs, rentals, or gear.

The Catskill region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from tranquil rural roads to challenging mountain climbs, and the picturesque scenery that includes charming farm country and riverside paths.

While public transport options might be limited directly to trailheads, some towns in the Catskills are accessible by bus services, which could serve as a starting point for your cycling adventure. Planning your route in advance to include accessible towns is recommended.

Parking is generally available at various trailheads, state parks, and public access points throughout the Catskills. Many towns also offer public parking areas that can serve as convenient starting points for loop routes. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations.