The best gravel rides around Rutgers University-Livingston Campus

There are several gravel bike trails around Rutgers University-Livingston Campus, offering a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options. The komoot community has mapped 5 routes in the area.

Yes, there is one easy route available. The Old East Jersey – Raritan Canal Towpath loop from Rutgers University is a good option for beginners, offering a manageable distance and elevation gain. The Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath itself is generally flat and accessible for various cycling levels.

For a more challenging ride, consider the D&R Canal Towpath loop from New Brunswick. This route is classified as difficult and covers over 62 miles (100 km), providing a significant endurance test.

You can expect diverse terrain, particularly within the Rutgers University Ecological Preserve, which features a mix of mature upland forest, wetlands, and meadows. Trails here can include hard-packed surfaces, roots, and sections with compact red clay/shale. The Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath, in contrast, offers a generally flat and smooth ride.

Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty. The Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath offers a beautiful riding experience surrounded by woodland. Within the Rutgers Ecological Preserve, the Intersection of Red and Blue Trail is noted as a must-see spot for riders, winding through dense forest and varied landscapes.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the area are loops. Examples include the View of the D&R Canal – Rutgers Ecological Preserve loop from New Brunswick and the View of the D&R Canal loop from Jersey Avenue, both offering circular routes to explore the canal and preserve.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 15 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse trail networks, the natural settings of the Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath, and the varied terrain found within the Rutgers University Ecological Preserve.

Many natural preserves and towpaths in New Jersey, including sections of the Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath and trails within the Rutgers Ecological Preserve, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before you go.

The Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath is an excellent option for families due to its generally flat and well-maintained surface. It offers a natural setting that is accessible for various cycling levels, making it suitable for a family outing.

Parking is available at various access points along the Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath. For trails within the Rutgers Ecological Preserve, parking can typically be found near the campus boundaries or designated trailheads. Specific parking details often vary by starting point.

Yes, Rutgers University-Livingston Campus is well-served by public transport, and some trailheads, particularly for the Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath, are accessible from New Brunswick. You can research local bus or train services that connect to points near the canal or campus.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Central New Jersey, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter rides are possible but may encounter snow or ice, especially on less-maintained trails.

Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, the D&R Canal Towpath loop from New Brunswick is a substantial ride covering over 62 miles (100 km). The Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath itself extends for 70 miles, offering potential for even longer custom routes.