1.
Glen Pond – Clermont State Historic Site loop from Red Hook
63.7km
02:54
430m
430m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
The best traffic-free bike rides around Red Hook
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated May 28, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling around Red Hook, you know how overwhelming the options can be. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and which are just filler, especially when you're looking for the best road bike routes Red Hook Brooklyn has to offer. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, so this guide is your curated shortlist of the ones that are truly worth your legs, saving you all the guesswork.
Road cycling in Red Hook is a unique experience, blending a distinctive industrial-maritime aesthetic with stunning waterfront views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. The terrain is generally flat, making it accessible for most skill levels, and you'll find dedicated sections of the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway perfect for car-free cycling. While Red Hook is somewhat cut off from subway access, its waterfront location makes it accessible by ferry, which can accommodate bikes, offering a unique way to start your cycling excursion.
For a relaxed ride with minimal elevation gain, we'd start with the Quiet backroads and almost no traffic loop from Red Hook, an easy 11.9 miles (19.1 km) that truly delivers on its promise of peaceful pedaling. If you only do one, make it this one for a taste of Red Hook's charm. For those looking for a longer, more varied experience, the moderate Glen Pond – Clermont State Historic Site loop from Village of Red Hook covers 39.6 miles (63.7 km) and offers a great escape into rural landscapes. With over 100 road cyclists having explored Red Hook with komoot and routes averaging 4.9 stars, you're in good hands.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glen Pond – Clermont State Historic Site loop from Red Hook | 63.7 km | 430 m | Moderate |
| Spring Lakes – Clermont State Historic Site loop from Red Hook | 64.5 km | 500 m | Moderate |
| Quiet backroads and almost no traffic loop from Red Hook | 19.1 km | 100 m | Easy |
| Spring Lakes – Clermont State Historic Site loop from Red Hook | 70.9 km | 510 m | Moderate |
2.
Spring Lakes – Clermont State Historic Site loop from Red Hook
64.5km
03:02
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
3.
Quiet backroads and almost no traffic loop from Red Hook
19.1km
01:12
100m
100m
This easy road cycling loop from Red Hook, NY, offers a delightful escape onto quiet backroads, perfect for a relaxed spin. You'll pedal along well-paved, picturesque rural roads, enjoying the natural beauty and varied elevations of the Dutchess County landscape. The route is designed for minimal traffic, ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable cycling experience as you connect with the region's charm.
To start this 11.9-mile (19.1 km) ride, you'll want to find parking within Red Hook, NY. The loop features a gentle 324 feet (99 metres) of elevation gain and can be completed in about 1 hour and 11 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick, accessible outing. It's a great option for those new to road cycling or anyone looking for a low-effort, high-reward ride.
What sets this route apart is its commitment to providing a serene cycling environment, a welcome change from busier roads. While it doesn't specifically name landmarks, the general area is known for connecting to state historic sites, adding a layer of cultural interest to your ride. It's a highly-rated option among cyclists seeking the best low traffic cycling loops Red Hook has to offer.
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4.
Spring Lakes – Clermont State Historic Site loop from Red Hook
70.9km
03:16
510m
510m
The Spring Lakes – Clermont State Historic Site loop from Red Hook is a fantastic road cycling route that immerses you in the scenic beauty of the Hudson Valley. You'll pedal through a diverse landscape of quiet backroads, active farmlands, and charming wooded sections, all leading to the spectacular Clermont State Historic Site. The route offers varied terrain with moderate climbs and rolling hills, providing a rewarding experience for cyclists who enjoy a good challenge and stunning views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains.
This moderate 44.0-mile (70.9 km) cycling route involves 1660 feet (506 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete. The well-paved surfaces and low-traffic backroads make for a pleasant ride. While specific parking information isn't detailed, Red Hook serves as a convenient starting point, and you'll find the route suitable for those with good fitness levels looking for a substantial day out.
What truly sets this route apart is its connection to the Clermont State Historic Site, the ancestral home of the Livingston family. This historical landmark not only offers a glimpse into American history but also provides some of the most spectacular viewpoints over the Hudson River Valley. It's a highly regarded cycling route, praised for its blend of physical activity, natural beauty, and cultural enrichment, making it a standout among cycling routes near Red Hook NY Clermont State Historic Site.
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Tips from the Community
EuroCyclingTrips
January 31, 2024, Glen Pond
Glen Pond is a small water runoff pond on the corner of Glen Pond Drive. The small area of trees right behind it makes it a popular area for small wildlife.
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David Howells
January 23, 2024, Clermont State Historic Site
Clermont State Historic Site was the country seat of the powerful Livingston family, who lived there for many generations. It was turned over to New York State in 1962 for use as a historic site. With its remarkable history, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1973. The view from Clermont’s front door is one of the most spectacular views of the Hudson River Valley from anywhere along the river.
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Jamie S.
December 26, 2023, Spring Lakes
The Spring Lakes are two interconnected, long narrow lakes just off of Spring Lake Road in Milan, New York. These two rural-feeling lakes are great places to look out for birds and other wildlife as you ride.
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Matthew
August 22, 2023, Waterfall in Tivoli Bays Wildlife Management Area
There is a cool waterfall here just off the side of the trail. The water levels in the creek obviously vary depending on the time of year and how much recent rainfall there has been, but there is always some sort of cascade going.
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Peter B
September 29, 2021, Quiet Country Road
road surface is soso but by far better than anything NYC has to offer ;)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Red Hook?
Red Hook offers nearly 40 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes. These routes are designed to provide a serene cycling experience, allowing you to enjoy the unique waterfront and industrial charm of the area without vehicle interference.
What kind of terrain and difficulty can I expect on Red Hook's no-traffic road cycling routes?
The no-traffic road cycling routes in Red Hook generally feature relatively flat terrain, especially along the waterfront sections like the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway. While many routes are easy, such as the Quiet backroads and almost no traffic loop from Village of Red Hook, there are also moderate options that may include gentle inclines, particularly on longer loops extending out from the immediate Red Hook area. Overall, the focus is on smooth, car-free surfaces.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes in Red Hook?
Yes, Red Hook offers several family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes. The flat and protected sections of the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway are ideal for families with children. These routes provide safe and scenic paths with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the harbor views, making them perfect for a leisurely family outing.
What are the best viewpoints or landmarks to see along these routes?
Red Hook's no-traffic road cycling routes offer stunning views of the New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, and the Manhattan skyline, especially from areas like Louis Valentino Jr. Park and Pier. Further afield, you can explore historical sites such as the Clermont State Historic Site, which is part of longer loops like the Glen Pond – Clermont State Historic Site loop from Village of Red Hook. The Empire State Trail also offers scenic sections.
How can I access the no-traffic road cycling routes in Red Hook using public transport or by car?
Red Hook is accessible via public transport, including several bus lines. For cyclists, the NYC Ferry offers a scenic way to arrive, with bike storage available, connecting Red Hook to other parts of NYC. If driving, parking can be found on local streets, though it may be limited. Many cyclists also ride to Red Hook from neighboring Brooklyn areas using protected bike lanes, such as the Fourth Avenue bike lane connecting from Park Slope to the Brooklyn Greenway.
What is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in Red Hook?
The best time to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in Red Hook is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and clear skies, perfect for enjoying the waterfront views and outdoor spaces. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy conditions, especially along exposed waterfront paths.
Are there any cafes or places to get refreshments near the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, Red Hook is known for its vibrant local scene, with numerous cafes, bakeries, and eateries scattered throughout the neighborhood. Many are conveniently located near the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway and other cycling paths, offering perfect spots to refuel or grab a coffee before, during, or after your ride.
Are there any circular or loop routes for no-traffic road cycling in Red Hook?
Absolutely. Many of Red Hook's no-traffic road cycling options are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Spring Lakes – Clermont State Historic Site loop from Village of Red Hook, which offers a longer excursion, or the shorter Glen Pond loop from Village of Red Hook, providing varied distances for different preferences.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about no-traffic cycling in Red Hook?
The komoot community highly rates Red Hook's no-traffic road cycling, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the unparalleled waterfront views, the unique blend of industrial and natural landscapes, and the peaceful, car-free environment that allows for a truly relaxing ride. The accessibility to iconic landmarks and the feeling of escaping city bustle are frequently highlighted.
Are there any waterfalls accessible by road bike near Red Hook?
While Red Hook itself is primarily urban and waterfront, longer road cycling routes extending into the wider region can lead to natural attractions. For instance, the Waterfall at Falling Waters Preserve is a notable natural feature in the broader area that can be incorporated into a longer ride, offering a refreshing stop.
Can I find longer no-traffic road cycling routes for more advanced riders?
Yes, while Red Hook offers many easy, shorter options, there are also longer, more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for advanced riders. These often extend beyond the immediate Red Hook peninsula, such as the Little Roundtop – Clermont State Historic Site loop from Village of Red Hook, which covers over 70 km and includes more significant elevation changes, providing a robust workout while still prioritizing quiet roads.
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