The best traffic-free bike rides in Ramapo Mountain State Forest
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Touring cycling in Ramapo Mountain State Forest offers routes through a rugged, hilly, and densely wooded landscape. The forest features a network of dirt and gravel roads, alongside fire roads, suitable for touring cyclists. Ramapo Lake is a central feature, with trails often following its shoreline and providing views of the water. Elevated viewpoints and rock outcroppings offer expansive vistas across the region.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Ramapo Mountain State Forest
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Ringwood State Park – Warm Puppy Rock loop from Ringwood, an 11.5 miles (18.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 45 minutes to complete, featuring moderate climbs through varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Crossover Trail – Crossover Trail loop from Ringwood, a moderate 7.9 miles (12.7 km) path. This route includes an elevation gain of over 790 feet (240 m) and can be completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Ringwood State Park – Shepherd Lake loop from Ringwood State Park, a 10.9 miles (17.5 km) trail leading through wooded areas and past Shepherd Lake, often completed in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Ramapo Mountain State Forest is defined by its rugged, hilly terrain, dense hardwood forests, and the presence of Ramapo Lake, with routes offering options for moderate to difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Ramapo Mountain State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.0 stars from 5 reviews. More than 200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Ramapo Mountain State Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
14
riders
15.0km
01:31
260m
260m
The Ringwood State Park – Shepherd Lake loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through the Ramapo Mountains, combining natural beauty with historical charm. You'll pedal along mostly paved surfaces, navigating hilly sections that provide a good workout, all while enjoying views of dense forests, tranquil ponds, and streams. The route prominently features the serene 74-acre Shepherd Lake, providing picturesque views and a refreshing atmosphere. This moderate 9.3-mile (15.0 km) ride, with 848 feet (258 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
When planning your visit, remember that the Ringwood State Park Shepherd Lake loop cycling route is a popular destination, so arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, can help you avoid crowds. The Shepherd Lake Recreation Area provides amenities like picnic spots and boat rentals during peak season, making it a convenient place to relax. While the route is suitable for touring bikes, be mindful that the park also hosts a network of multi-use trails, so you'll share the space with other outdoor enthusiasts.
Beyond the natural scenery, this area is rich in history and unique features. You'll encounter landmarks such as the historic Ringwood Manor and the New Jersey Botanical Garden at Skylands, offering a glimpse into the region's past. The Church of St. Luke, dating back to 1895, overlooks Shepherd Lake, adding to the scenic and historical appeal. The park's diverse offerings, from its natural features to its historical sites, make it a standout destination for cycling in New Jersey.
8
riders
12.7km
01:19
240m
240m
The Crossover Trail loop from Ringwood offers a surprisingly rugged experience for cyclists, winding through the dense forests and elevated vistas of the Ramapo Mountains. While listed as a touring cycling route, expect rocky paths, roots, and singletrack sections that feel more like mountain biking terrain, especially around serene spots like Bear Swamp Lake and Glasmere Ponds. This 7.9-mile (12.7 km) route, with 796 feet (243 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate but demands good bike handling skills and fitness, taking about 1 hour and 18 minutes.
Located within Ringwood State Park, this trail is best tackled by those seeking a technical challenge rather than a smooth ride. Be prepared for sections where you might need to push your bike, particularly through 'rock garden' areas. Always check trail conditions, especially after wet weather, as the unpaved and technical nature can become even more demanding. It's a route for adventurous cyclists ready for a workout.
This loop is part of Ringwood State Park's extensive trail network, known for its natural beauty and historical sites like Ringwood Manor. The Crossover Trail itself is particularly notable among mountain biking enthusiasts for its challenging features, including a 'Black Diamond' rated rock garden section. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the park's diverse landscapes, but be aware that its character leans heavily towards a mountain biking experience.
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17
riders
15.7km
01:35
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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41.8km
03:48
720m
720m
The Warm Puppy Rock – Munsee-Eagle Trail loop from Ringwood is a challenging touring cycling route that plunges you into the rugged heart of the Ramapo Mountains. You'll navigate dense forests, pass serene lakes, and climb to elevated vistas, with notable sections like Warm Puppy Rock and the Munsee-Eagle Trail offering technical rocky spots and singletrack through fern forests. This 26.0-mile (41.8 km) loop with 2354 feet (717 metres) of elevation gain is a true test of skill and endurance, taking around 3 hours and 48 minutes to complete.
Planning your ride requires careful consideration of equipment; despite some paved sections, much of the route traverses unpaved, technical terrain. A traditional road touring bike won't cut it here; you'll need a gravel bike with aggressive tires (at least 42c) or a hardtail mountain bike to handle the rock gardens, drops, and technical singletrack. Be ready to dismount and walk your bike on some of the more difficult segments.
This loop stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and extreme technical challenge, venturing into terrain typically reserved for mountain biking. It combines iconic features like Warm Puppy Rock, known for its "Black Diamond difficulty," with the varied landscapes of Ringwood State Park, offering a memorable adventure for well-prepared cyclists seeking more than just smooth roads.
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Tips from the Community
Enjoy this fun trail with its curves that will eventually lead you to Weyble Pond, one of the various bodies of water in the area, ideal for a short break.
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Enjoy this fun trail with its curves that will eventually lead you to Weyble Pond, one of the various bodies of water in the area, ideal for a short break.
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Shepherd Lake is a beautiful lake in a very scenic setting. There is car parking here, and nearby is some greenspace with benches and some trees, not that many, but some, so you can take in the shade on a hot day if you get the right spot. Nearby is also a beach. It is a nice scenic place to take a break on a tour, or better yet, a great family bike ride location.
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Ringwood State Park encompasses ponds, streams, specialty gardens, and historic manors, offering visitors a diverse range of things to do. Ringwood Manor, a historic site within the park, offers tours Wednesday through Sunday, from April to October. The trail systems are ideal for hiking and biking throughout the year.
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Great point to get a view of the valley from the top of a large rock. It is a great place to sit, take a break and enjoy a wonderful view.
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A technical trail that will keep you on your toes. One of the best in the area.
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A huge rock with amazing views. Make a stop, eat a snack and enjoy the scenery.
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This is a fun trail with flow spots, some technical rocky spots and sweeping turns thru fern forests.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Ramapo Mountain State Forest?
There are 14 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Ramapo Mountain State Forest featured in this guide. These routes are primarily on dirt and gravel roads, offering a peaceful cycling experience away from vehicular traffic.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The no-traffic routes in Ramapo Mountain State Forest primarily utilize dirt and gravel roads, as well as fire roads. While the forest is known for its rugged, hilly terrain, these specific routes are selected for their less technical nature, making them suitable for touring and gravel bikes. You'll experience a mix of ascents and descents through densely wooded areas.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes?
While many routes in Ramapo Mountain State Forest are rated moderate due to elevation changes, some of the shorter, less technical gravel paths can be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with some climbing. Always check the route details for elevation and surface type to ensure it matches your family's ability. For example, the Crossover Trail – Crossover Trail loop from Ringwood is a moderate option that might be considered.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features I can see along these routes?
Ramapo Mountain State Forest offers several scenic and historical points of interest. You can cycle past the beautiful Ramapo Lake, explore the historic Van Slyke Castle Ruins, or find elevated viewpoints like the Lookout Trail which can offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and even glimpses of the New York City skyline on clear days.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Ramapo Mountain State Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Ringwood State Park – Warm Puppy Rock loop from Ringwood, which offers a scenic circular journey.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ramapo Mountain State Forest?
Spring and autumn are generally the best times for touring cycling in Ramapo Mountain State Forest. Spring brings lush greenery and comfortable temperatures, while autumn offers spectacular fall foliage, making for a picturesque ride. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer temperatures and potential humidity. Winter cycling is possible, but some unpaved paths may be challenging due to snow or ice.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ramapo Mountain State Forest?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Ramapo Mountain State Forest, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, wooded gravel roads that provide a true escape from traffic, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the beautiful natural scenery, especially around Ramapo Lake and the historic castle ruins.
Are there any challenging no-traffic routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are difficult-rated no-traffic routes available. These routes typically feature longer distances and more significant elevation gains. An example is the Warm Puppy Rock – Ringwood State Park loop from Ringwood, which covers over 40 km with substantial climbing.
Can I access these routes using public transport?
Ramapo Mountain State Forest is primarily accessed by car, and public transport options directly to trailheads are limited. It's advisable to plan your trip with personal transportation to reach the starting points of these no-traffic touring cycling routes.
Where can I park when visiting Ramapo Mountain State Forest for cycling?
Parking is available at designated areas within or adjacent to Ramapo Mountain State Forest, such as the main parking lot off Skyline Drive. When planning your route, check the starting point for specific parking instructions, as some routes may begin from areas with more limited parking.
Are there any routes that connect to other parks or trail systems?
Yes, Ramapo Mountain State Forest's extensive trail network connects with adjacent county and state lands, including Ramapo Valley County Reservation and Ringwood State Park. This interconnectivity allows for longer, more varied touring cycling routes that explore a broader natural area. For instance, the Ringwood State Park – Ramapo Knob loop from Ringwood explores areas within Ringwood State Park.
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