4.7
(84)
844
riders
81
rides
Best touring cycling routes near Piermont traverse a landscape characterized by its proximity to the Hudson River, offering routes that often follow historic rail trails and pass through local state parks. The terrain includes relatively flat sections along former railway lines, alongside gentle rolling hills, and scenic views of Lake DeForest. This area provides a mix of paved and gravel paths suitable for touring cyclists.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
5.0
(5)
8
riders
36.7km
02:18
310m
310m
Embark on the Lake DeForest Loop for a moderate touring bicycle ride that circles a beautiful reservoir. You'll cover 22.8 miles (36.7 km) with an elevation gain of 1024 feet (312 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 18 minutes to complete. The route offers a mix of paved asphalt roads and dedicated cycleways, providing a smooth experience for most of the journey. As you pedal, you'll enjoy continuous waterside scenery, especially along the south and eastern shores of Lake DeForest itself. Be ready for some unpaved sections that add a bit of variety and challenge to the terrain. This loop is perfect for those seeking a rewarding ride with diverse landscapes.
Before you set out, ensure your touring bicycle is equipped to handle mixed surfaces, as some parts of the loop might transition from paved roads to unpaved sections or even singletrack. While generally accessible, good fitness is required for this moderate route, and you might find yourself needing to dismount and push your bike on trickier segments. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the views and navigate any varied terrain safely. Always check local regulations for parking and access points around the reservoir.
The Lake DeForest Loop is notable for its blend of natural beauty and accessible cycling, offering a chance to explore a significant local water source. The reservoir itself is a crucial part of the region's infrastructure, providing drinking water to several communities. This route allows you to experience the serene environment surrounding this important landmark, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a longer, varied ride away from urban bustle.
31
riders
101km
06:36
1,210m
1,210m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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5.0
(2)
17
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
15
riders
19.4km
01:08
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This section of the New York State Bike Route is a popular stretch, especially around the Tappan Zee Bridge. It attracts many cyclists on weekends.
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Nyack Beach State Park features a flat, two-mile multi-use path along the Hudson River, which is also part of the Hudson River Valley Greenway. The Nyack River Trail offers scenic views with the river on one side and the towering Palisades cliffs on the other. It is open for biking, walking, fishing, and cross-country skiing in the winter. The park is part of a larger network of parks including Rockland Lake, Hook Mountain, and Haverstraw Beach State Parks.
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simply beautiful roads along the Hudson and always great views
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The unobstructed 360 views are worth the extra 70 feet up the tower when it's open
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A restored 19th-century train station building at the start of a beautiful gravel trail. You can find many other interesting details on the photographed information board, but you should still go there.
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If the Perkins Memorial Tower is open to the public on the day of your visit be sure to climb up the tower to get a great view of both sides of the Hudson River and all the way down to New York City.
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The Perkins Memorial Tower sits at the top of Bear Mountain. It was built in the 1930s and is named after the first president of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission, George Wallbridge Perkins. From here, you get great views of the Hudson River and surrounding hills.
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There are over 60 touring cycling routes around Piermont, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 23 easy routes, 36 moderate routes, and 7 more challenging options.
The touring cycling routes around Piermont feature a mix of historic rail trails, sections along the Hudson River, and paths through local state parks. You'll find relatively flat paved and gravel sections, as well as gentle rolling hills, often with scenic views of Lake DeForest.
Yes, Piermont offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. One popular option is the Piermont Railway Station (historic) – Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail loop from Tallman Mountain State Park, which is 10.2 miles (16.3 km) long and largely follows a rail trail.
For those seeking a longer ride, the Lake DeForest Loop is a moderate 22.8 miles (36.7 km) route that offers expansive views of Lake DeForest and the surrounding landscape.
Many routes offer beautiful views of the Hudson River and Lake DeForest. You can also find notable attractions such as the Hudson River Waterfront Trail at Nyack Beach State Park, the Tarrytown Reservoir, and the picturesque Peanut Leap Cascade.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Piermont are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Piermont Railway Station (historic) – Old Erie Rail Trail (gravel) loop from Blauvelt and the Wild Turkey Trail – Ruckman Road Trail loop from Rockleigh.
Parking is generally available at various trailheads and state parks throughout the region, such as Tallman Mountain State Park, which serves as a starting point for several routes.
While Piermont itself has limited direct public transport options to trailheads, nearby towns like Tarrytown offer Metro-North train access, and some local bus services might connect to areas closer to the routes. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for specific connections.
The touring cycling routes in Piermont are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the scenic rail trails, beautiful lake views, and the variety of routes through state parks that cater to different skill levels.
Yes, depending on your chosen route, you may find opportunities for refreshments. For example, the 9W Market is a well-known stop for cyclists in the area, offering a place to refuel.
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Piermont, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's best to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat. Winters can be cold, and some paths may be less accessible due to snow or ice.


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