The best traffic-free bike rides in Storm King State Park

There are 8 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in Storm King State Park featured in this guide. These routes vary in difficulty, with 3 easy, 4 moderate, and 1 difficult option to choose from.

The terrain in and around Storm King State Park offers a mix of challenges. While many routes feature well-paved surfaces, you should be prepared for significant elevation changes, as the park is known for its dramatic mountains like Storm King Mountain and Butter Hill. Some segments might be unpaved, so checking route details is always recommended.

Yes, there are several easier options suitable for a more relaxed ride. For instance, the Fort Putnam loop from United States Military Academy is an easy route covering about 9.5 km with moderate elevation gain. Another easy choice is the Fort Putnam – Highland Falls loop from United States Military Academy, which is around 13.7 km long.

Storm King State Park offers breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley. Many routes provide continuous scenic views of the Hudson River. You can expect to see landmarks like Storm King Mountain itself, and iconic viewpoints often allow glimpses of Bannerman's Castle and Breakneck Ridge. The Winding cliffside country road with beautiful views is a highlight not to be missed.

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for road cycling in Storm King State Park. Spring brings fresh greenery, while autumn offers spectacular fall foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Winter cycling is possible but may require specialized gear and caution due to potential ice or snow on roads.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge loop from Beacon is a difficult route spanning over 98 km with significant elevation gain, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience.

Storm King State Park is largely undeveloped, which means amenities like dedicated parking lots can be limited. It's advisable to research specific trailhead parking options for your chosen route in advance. Some routes might start from areas with more established parking, such as near the United States Military Academy or in nearby towns like Newburgh or Beacon.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in Storm King State Park, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views of the Hudson River, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the opportunity to ride on quiet, scenic roads away from heavy traffic.

Yes, many of the routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Prospect Hill loop from Newburgh and the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge loop from Newburgh, which offer varied distances and elevation profiles.

While Storm King State Park itself is largely undeveloped, nearby towns like Beacon and Newburgh are accessible by public transport (e.g., Metro-North train to Beacon). From these towns, you might be able to connect to cycling routes. However, direct public transport into the park with bike carriage options may be limited, so planning your approach from a nearby hub is key.

As Storm King State Park is largely undeveloped, amenities within the park are minimal. However, the surrounding towns such as Cornwall-on-Hudson, Highland Falls, Newburgh, and Beacon offer various cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel before or after your ride. It's a good idea to plan your stops in these towns.