Christ Church Montclair – Brookside Drive loop from Watchung Avenue
Christ Church Montclair – Brookside Drive loop from Watchung Avenue
3.2
(5)
62
riders
Christ Church Montclair – Brookside Drive loop from Watchung Avenue
04:44
77.3km
660m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Tips
Includes segments that go up or down a series of steps
You may need to carry your bike.
After 14 m for 20 m
After 77.3 km for 20 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
2.19 km
Christ Church Montclair
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
14.9 km
Brookside Drive
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
17.7 km
Diamond Mill Pond
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
36.8 km
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Highlight (Segment) • Natural
Tip by
62.6 km
West Essex Park
Nature Reserve
77.3 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
50.2 km
15.6 km
8.28 km
2.59 km
294 m
210 m
175 m
Surfaces
63.0 km
13.7 km
401 m
269 m
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Elevation
Highest point (170 m)
Lowest point (50 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 16 July
33°C
21°C
2 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a substantial touring cycling challenge with rewarding climbs, the Christ Church Montclair – Brookside Drive loop from Watchung Avenue delivers. This difficult 48.0-mile (77.3 km) route packs in 2166 feet (660 metres) of climbing, taking around 4 hours and 44 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for experienced riders ready to tackle Montclair's rolling hills and enjoy diverse scenery.
What to expect on Christ Church Montclair – Brookside Drive loop from Watchung Avenue
This route takes you through Montclair's charming suburban landscapes, connecting parklands and forested sections with tree-lined streets, particularly around Christ Church Montclair. You'll encounter varied terrain, from the gentler inclines of Watchung Avenue to the more demanding 'Brookside Climb' on Brookside Drive, which features an average grade of 8.8% over 1.8 miles. It's a ride that keeps you engaged, offering scenic views and a good workout for those who appreciate a challenging touring cycling experience.
Planning your visit
A key highlight for this route is the opportunity to cycle a significant portion of Brookside Drive without motor vehicles. This section is periodically closed to motor vehicles on Sundays between 7 AM and 12 PM, offering a safer and more serene cycling experience. Montclair is recognized as a Bicycle Friendly Community, indicating good infrastructure. Plan your ride for a Sunday morning to take full advantage of the car-free Brookside Drive.
Trail details
- Distance: 48.0 miles (77.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 2166 feet (660 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 4 hours and 44 minutes
Comments
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