The best cycling routes around Kerhonkson
5.0
(2)
101
riders
17
rides
Touring cycling routes around Kerhonkson are situated in New York's Hudson Valley, nestled between the Catskill Mountains and the Shawangunk Ridge. The region features a diverse landscape of forests, glacial lakes, and prominent ridges, offering varied terrain for cyclists. Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a central hub, providing extensive carriage roads and scenic routes. The area also includes rail trails and road cycling options, catering to different skill levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Kerhonkson
- The most popular touring cycling route is Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting Loop, a 17.0 miles (27.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 39 minutes to complete. This moderate route navigates around two glacial lakes within Minnewaska State Park Preserve.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is O&W Rail Trail: Kerhonkson-Kingston Loop, a moderate 40.9 miles (65.9 km) path. This route utilizes a section of the O&W Rail Trail, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Castle Point – Lake Minnewaska loop from Horse Trailer Lot/Awosting Parking Overflow, a 21.7 miles (34.9 km) trail leading through Minnewaska State Park Preserve, often completed in about 2 hours 55 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Kerhonkson is defined by its glacial lakes, extensive carriage roads, and rail trails, set against the backdrop of the Catskill Mountains and Shawangunk Ridge. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
- The routes in Kerhonkson are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 4 reviews. More than 100 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Kerhonkson's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
16
riders
27.4km
02:40
410m
410m
The Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting Loop offers a truly spectacular touring cycling experience, winding through dense hardwood forests and along dramatic sheer cliffs. You'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the Shawangunk Mountain ridge and the unique
1
riders
52.8km
04:20
880m
880m
This touring cycling route from Ellenville takes you deep into the Minnewaska State Park Preserve, offering a challenging yet incredibly scenic ride. You'll traverse historic carriage roads and rougher, technical sections, passing three crystalline sky lakes—Lake Minnewaska, Lake Awosting, and Lake Maratanza—before reaching the dramatic 60-foot Awosting Falls. Expect panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and Catskill peaks from various points along the way, making the significant effort worthwhile.
Planning your ride requires a good level of fitness, as this is a difficult 32.8-mile (52.8 km) route with 2898 feet (883 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 4 hours and 19 minutes. Be prepared for the steep Awosting Portal climb, which has an average grade of 9.8% and can reach 11%, potentially requiring you to dismount. The trail can feature rocks, roots, mud, and standing water, especially in technical sections around Lake Awosting.
This route is notable for its use of historic carriage roads, originally built in the late 1800s, which offer a unique cycling experience through a diverse ecosystem of chestnut oak forests and pitch pines. The park provides opportunities for swimming in Lake Awosting during summer, and the Awosting Falls area is a popular spot. It's a rigorous yet visually stunning adventure for advanced cyclists.
Sign up for free
1
riders
40.3km
02:42
460m
460m
The Lippman Park and Vernooy Kill State Forest loop near Kerhonkson offers a diverse touring cycling experience, blending natural beauty with a solid challenge. You'll navigate a mix of unpaved and paved roads, following the rushing Vernooy Kill stream through deep hemlock forests before emerging into open farmland with impressive Catskill Mountain views. Keep an eye out for the unique steel bridge over the Rondout, which is accessible only to bikes.
This difficult 25.0-mile (40.3 km) route, featuring 1512 feet (461 metres) of elevation gain, is best tackled by touring cyclists comfortable with some bumpy sections and a sustained effort, taking about 2 hours and 42 minutes. Parking and public restrooms are available at Lippman Park, the starting point. For the most spectacular scenery, plan your ride in the fall when the foliage is at its peak.
The Vernooy Kill State Forest, a relatively recent addition to the state's landholdings, provides a quiet and scenic escape with minimal traffic. This route also offers the option of a shortcut via Cherrytown Road, passing a dude ranch, though the main path over Upper Cherrytown is renowned for its gorgeous farmland and spectacular district views.
65.9km
04:30
370m
370m
Cycle the O&W Rail Trail: Kerhonkson-Kingston Loop, a 40.9-mile moderate route with varied surfaces, historical sites, and scenic views.
5.0
(1)
17
riders
27.5km
01:59
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Awosting Falls is always gorgeous, regardless of season and recent rainfall. It is an easy walk from the parking lot with other little falls and pools on the way up, making it a great trail for small kids. You can see the falls from both the top and bottom via a short trail.
1
0
Head north off of the road for a couple of minutes to find the pretty waterfall. A great spot to take a shaded break off of the bike and cool off.
0
0
Lippman Park is home to a bunch of trails that were designed with mountain biking in mind. Foot traffic is still allowed on the trails, but it's probably best to step aside for all bikes regardless of the scenario since we are out in their territory. The singletrack trails are still fantastic for hiking and running, and there are a bunch of different loop options. The trails aren't super well-marked, though, so it's probably best to take your komoot map with you.
0
0
Lippman Park is a lovely setting to enjoy nature. The park is approximately 115 acres, with a small lake. There are also approximately 15 miles of single track mountain bike trails here, with varying levels of difficulty. The Renegades Mountain Bike Club have developed the trails.
1
0
Minnewaska State Park Preserve in New York enchants with its dramatic cliffs, pristine lakes, and lush forests. Visitors explore diverse trails, waterfalls, and the serene beauty of the Shawangunk Mountains.
0
0
Lippman Park is a lovely setting to enjoy nature. The park is approximately 115 acres, with a small lake. There are also approximately 15 miles of singletrack mountain bike trails here, with varying levels of difficulty. The Renegades Mountain Bike Club have developed the trails.
0
0
This trailhead enters the central section of the O&W Rail Trail. The New York, Ontario and Western (O&W) Railway ran between Ellenville and Kingston. The line has now been converted into a multi-user trail, which is a mix of surfaces. Although the rail trail has some gaps, there are further improvement works to link it together.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Kerhonkson?
There are over 15 touring cycling routes around Kerhonkson, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include routes through Minnewaska State Park Preserve, along rail trails, and on scenic country roads, catering to various skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Kerhonkson?
Kerhonkson's touring cycling routes feature a mix of terrain, including well-maintained carriage roads within Minnewaska State Park Preserve, multi-use rail trails like the O&W Rail Trail, and paved road cycling routes. The landscape varies from flat valley sections to rolling hills and more challenging climbs in the Catskill Mountains and Shawangunk Ridge.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Kerhonkson offers routes suitable for beginners and families. The area includes easy sections of rail trails and some of the carriage roads in Minnewaska State Park Preserve provide accessible and scenic options. For example, the Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting Loop is a moderate route that can be enjoyed by those looking for a scenic ride without extreme difficulty.
Are there challenging routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. Experienced cyclists can find challenging routes with significant elevation gains, particularly those that venture into the higher sections of Minnewaska State Park or incorporate climbs along Clove Valley Road. Routes like the Castle Point – Lake Minnewaska loop from Horse Trailer Lot/Awosting Parking Overflow offer a more demanding experience with substantial ascents.
What natural landmarks can I explore along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes offer access to stunning natural landmarks. You can cycle past beautiful glacial lakes such as Lake Minnewaska and Lake Maratanza. Some routes also provide views of impressive waterfalls like Awosting Falls and Rainbow Falls, especially after rainfall. You might also catch glimpses of prominent summits like Millbrook Mountain.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, several circular routes are available, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Lippman Park and Vernooy Kill State Forest loop via Kerhonkson, which offers a challenging ride through varied landscapes.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Kerhonkson?
The spring and fall seasons are particularly popular for touring cycling in Kerhonkson. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall offers spectacular foliage views across the Catskill Mountains and Shawangunk Ridge. Summer is also suitable, though it can be warmer, and winter can be challenging due to snow and ice on some trails.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Kerhonkson?
The touring cycling routes in Kerhonkson are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from glacial lakes and waterfalls to panoramic mountain views, and the variety of well-maintained carriage roads and rail trails that cater to different abilities.
Are there routes that feature waterfalls?
Yes, you can find routes that lead to or offer views of impressive waterfalls. Minnewaska State Park Preserve is home to several, including Awosting Falls and Rainbow Falls. The Awosting Falls – Overlook loop from Horse Trailer Lot/Awosting Parking Overflow is an excellent option to experience these natural wonders.
Can I find routes with scenic viewpoints?
Many routes in the Kerhonkson area offer breathtaking scenic viewpoints. Within Minnewaska State Park Preserve, you can find stunning vistas from areas like Gertrude's Nose and View of Lake Minnewaska. The Rosendale Trestle Bridge along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail also provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Are there any rail trails suitable for touring cycling?
Yes, Kerhonkson is well-connected to rail trails that are excellent for touring cycling. The O&W Rail Trail is a prominent example, offering scenic and relatively flat sections. The O&W Rail Trail: Kerhonkson-Kingston Loop is a popular route that utilizes a section of this trail.
Most popular attractions around Kerhonkson
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
