The best cycling routes around Lincolndale

There are over 15 touring cycling routes around Lincolndale, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored 17 routes in total, ranging from moderate to difficult.

The terrain around Lincolndale is quite varied, featuring scenic lakes, ponds, and farmland, as well as parts of the Croton Watershed with reservoirs like the Amawalk and Titicus. Westchester County's topography includes elevations up to 987 feet, so you can expect a mix of flat sections, rolling hills, and some more challenging climbs, particularly on routes like the Cross River reservoir dam – Pine Lake loop from Katonah which has over 1000 meters of elevation gain.

While many routes in the immediate vicinity are rated moderate to difficult, the broader Westchester County area, which includes Lincolndale, offers extensive paved multi-use trailways. The North County Trailway, for instance, is a 22.1-mile paved path that passes through Somers and is generally suitable for families looking for a less strenuous ride. These trailways provide a safer, flatter option away from vehicle traffic.

Cycling around Lincolndale offers views of several significant natural features. You'll encounter picturesque reservoirs such as the Amawalk and Titicus, which are part of the Croton Watershed. Routes like the Titicus Reservoir Loop provide scenic vistas of these water bodies. The region also features diverse habitats including woods, wetlands, and ponds, especially within preserves like the Angle Fly Preserve in Somers, which offers a network of trails for exploration.

Yes, several popular touring cycling routes near Lincolndale are circular. A prime example is the Titicus Reservoir Loop, which is a 28.9-mile route offering continuous views around the reservoir. Another option is the Goldens Bridge Loop, a 29.3-mile path with varied terrain.

The region around Lincolndale is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with spring bringing lush greenery and fall showcasing spectacular foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from 5 reviews. Reviewers often praise the scenic lakes and reservoirs, the extensive multi-use trailways, and the diverse terrain that offers options for various ability levels. Over 60 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Lincolndale's varied landscape.

Yes, Lincolndale is well-situated for accessing longer routes. The North County Trailway, a 22.1-mile paved path, extends north through Westchester County to the Putnam County border, offering a continuous and scenic route. For an even longer ride, the North County Trailway – The Pine Bridge Monument loop from Amawalk Outlet Unit covers over 42 miles and incorporates a significant portion of this trailway.

Many of the trailways and preserves in Westchester County, including those accessible from Lincolndale, offer designated parking areas. For instance, the North County Trailway has various access points with parking. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the starting point details on komoot or local park websites for parking information.

Westchester County has some public transport options that can get you close to various trailheads. Metro-North Railroad serves several towns in Westchester, and from there, local buses or a short ride-share might connect you to trail access points. For detailed public transport information, you can consult the Westchester County Department of Transportation website or apps like Google Maps for specific route planning.

Generally, permits are not required for touring cycling on the public multi-use trailways like the North County Trailway or around the reservoirs in Westchester County. However, it's always a good idea to check the specific regulations for any particular park or preserve you plan to visit, as some smaller, privately managed areas might have different rules. For general information on county parks, you can visit westchestercountyny.gov.

While dogs are generally welcome on leash on many multi-use trails in Westchester County, specific rules can vary by location. Paved trailways like the North County Trailway are often dog-friendly. However, if you plan to visit specific preserves or reservoir areas, it's best to check their individual policies regarding dogs to ensure a pleasant experience for both you and your pet.

For beginners or those seeking an easier ride, the extensive paved multi-use trailways in Westchester County are ideal. While specific 'easy' routes directly from Lincolndale might involve some road cycling, sections of the North County Trailway offer a relatively flat and traffic-free experience. The guide lists one easy route out of 17, but many moderate routes, like The Pine Bridge Monument – Stewart's Farm loop from Yorktown Heights, are also manageable for those with some cycling experience.