The best traffic-free bike rides in Stewart B. Mckinney National Wildlife Refuge

There are currently 6 no traffic road cycling routes available in the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge area, offering a variety of distances and experiences for road cyclists.

The refuge is open year-round from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset, making it accessible for cycling in all seasons. However, spring and fall are particularly rewarding for wildlife observation, especially bird migrations, which can enhance your cycling experience along the coastal routes.

Yes, there is one easy route in the area. The Patchogue River – Westbrook Town Beach loop from Clinton is a great option, covering about 31.8 km with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for those looking for a relaxed ride.

The Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge is known for its predominantly flat wetlands and coastal areas. This gentle topography makes for easy riding, with routes often featuring expansive views of the Long Island Sound and diverse habitats like salt marshes and barrier beaches. Many segments are on mostly paved surfaces, ideal for road bikes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 27 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free environment, the beautiful coastal scenery, and the excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching along the Atlantic Flyway.

Yes, for those seeking a longer ride, the Jennings Pond – Deep River loop from Westbrook is a moderate route spanning approximately 87 km. It offers a significant distance to cover while still enjoying the refuge's scenic beauty.

As part of the Atlantic Flyway, the refuge is a critical habitat for numerous bird species, including wading birds, shorebirds, songbirds, and terns. Cyclists often spot a variety of birds, especially during spring and fall migrations. Units like Salt Meadow and Great Meadows are particularly rich in birdlife, with hundreds of species recorded.

Yes, the refuge incorporates unique historical features. For instance, the Salt Meadow Unit includes the Lape-Read House and Enoch Murdock House. While not directly on every cycling route, you can plan your ride to pass by these landmarks, adding a cultural dimension to your outdoor adventure.

Parking is available at various units of the refuge. The Salt Meadow Unit in Westbrook is conveniently located off Interstate-95 and provides accessible parking for visitors looking to explore the area by bike.

Many of the routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Fort Hill – Observatory Hill loop from Westbrook is a moderate, circular route of about 55.4 km, perfect for a scenic round trip.

Beyond the longer options, you can also consider the West Wharf Beach – Rock in the Hammonasset River loop from Clinton, which is a moderate 33 km ride, or the Meeting House Hill – Goose Hill loop from Clinton, another moderate option covering nearly 56 km.