The best road cycling routes around Newark

There are 6 dedicated road cycling routes around Newark featured in this guide. These routes offer a variety of distances and difficulty levels, from easy to moderate, allowing you to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

Yes, Newark offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. For instance, the Thomas J. Evans Trail loop from Newark is an easy option, covering 26.7 km with minimal elevation gain. The city's relatively flat terrain, especially in parks like Branch Brook Park and Weequahic Park, makes it very accessible for new cyclists.

Newark and its surroundings offer several scenic options. The Thomas J. Evans Trail loop from Newark provides pleasant views. Beyond the specific routes in this guide, you can find beautiful cherry blossom rides in Branch Brook Park, scenic trails around the lake in Weequahic Park, and riverfront cycling along the Newark Riverfront Trail. The East Coast Greenway and Essex-Hudson Greenway also offer well-paved surfaces for longer, scenic rides.

Yes, many of the routes around Newark are designed as loops, offering a convenient circular experience. Examples include the Roadbike loop from Granville Township, which is an easy 24.7 km ride, and the Roadbike loop from St. Louisville, a moderate 49.9 km option. These circular routes allow you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.

The best time for road cycling in Newark is generally during the spring and fall months. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and the beautiful cherry blossoms in Branch Brook Park. Fall provides cooler weather and vibrant foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Winters can be cold, with potential for snow and ice, making cycling less ideal.

Yes, for those seeking a bit more challenge, there are moderate routes available. The Roadbike loop from St. Louisville is a moderate 49.9 km route with over 600 meters of elevation gain. Another moderate option is the Coshocton Hill loop from Coshocton Hill, which is significantly longer at 77.1 km and features over 760 meters of ascent, providing a more extensive workout.

The terrain around Newark is quite varied. Within the city, routes are generally flat and well-paved, especially in parks and along greenways like the Newark Riverfront Trail. As you venture further out, you'll encounter routes with gentle inclines and some more significant elevation gains, particularly on moderate tours like the Coshocton Hill loop. Most routes offer mostly well-paved surfaces suitable for road bikes.

While specific landmarks vary by route, the region offers several points of interest. Cycling through Branch Brook Park during cherry blossom season is a highlight. The Observatory Hill loop from Union Township suggests a scenic point. Beyond the immediate routes, the East Coast Greenway and Essex-Hudson Greenway connect to broader infrastructure, and nearby attractions like the South Mountain Reservation or Liberty State Park (a short drive away) offer additional scenic views and points of interest.

Parking availability varies by starting point. For routes originating within city parks like Branch Brook Park or Weequahic Park, designated parking lots are typically available. For routes starting in smaller townships or residential areas, street parking might be an option, but it's always advisable to check local regulations. Many routes are accessible from various points, allowing flexibility for parking.

Newark has an evolving public transport network, and many areas are accessible by NJ Transit buses and trains. While direct access to every route's starting point might require some planning, major parks and greenways within the city are often well-served by public transport. Cyclists should check NJ Transit's policies regarding bikes on buses and trains for specific routes and times.

Road cyclists often praise Newark's improving cycling infrastructure and its access to diverse landscapes. The city's relatively flat and visually interesting environment, combined with dedicated paths in parks like Branch Brook and Weequahic, makes for an enjoyable experience. The connection to significant greenways like the East Coast Greenway is also a major draw for those seeking longer rides.