The best cycling routes in Sullivan County

There are over 20 touring cycling routes in Sullivan County, offering a variety of experiences. These include 2 easy routes, 14 moderate routes, and 6 difficult routes, catering to different skill levels.

Sullivan County offers diverse terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find gentle grades on former rail trails like the Sullivan O&W Rail Trail, which has both paved and unpaved sections. For road cyclists, routes range from flat, paved roads around reservoirs to more challenging options with significant elevation gains in the Catskill Mountains.

Yes, rail trails in Sullivan County are generally well-suited for families due to their gentle grades. The Sullivan O&W Rail Trail, particularly the paved 3.5-mile section in Hurleyville, is ADA-compliant and offers a smooth ride. The Millen Lake loop from Washington is also an easy route, making it a good option for a relaxed family outing.

Cycling in Sullivan County provides access to stunning natural beauty. You can enjoy views of the Delaware River, especially along the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway, and the Neversink River. The region is also home to numerous lakes, such as Lake Superior and Mongaup Pond, and extensive forested areas within the Catskill Mountains. Routes like the Lake Sunapee loop offer scenic views around the water.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Sullivan County are designed as loops. Examples include the popular Lake Sunapee loop, the Otter Pond & Lake Sunapee loop from Grantham, and the Eastman Pond loop from Grantham. These circular routes allow you to start and end in the same location without retracing your path.

Along the cycling routes, you can explore charming towns and hamlets, and discover historic sites. Notable landmarks include several covered bridges like the Prentiss Covered Bridge and the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge. The settlement of Washington is also a point of interest. Walnut Mountain Park, accessible via the Liberty Rail Trail, offers additional trails and amenities.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 7 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from the gentle rail trails to the more challenging routes in the Catskill Mountains, and the scenic views around the numerous lakes and rivers.

While many routes are shorter loops, the Sullivan O&W Rail Trail is a significant long-distance option. It currently offers about 30 miles across seven segments, with plans to expand to a continuous 50-mile route from Wurtsboro to Livingston Manor. For a challenging longer ride, consider the Bellows Falls & the Connecticut River loop from Claremont, which covers over 46 miles.

Yes, communities along the rail trails and various parks offer amenities. For example, you can find a sheltered picnic area in the region. Many towns and hamlets connected by the trails also provide opportunities for dining and rest.

Sullivan County is excellent for touring cycling during the spring, summer, and fall months. The mild temperatures and vibrant foliage, especially in autumn, make for very pleasant riding conditions. While some routes might be accessible in winter, many unpaved sections of rail trails could be challenging due to snow or ice.

Absolutely. The western border of Sullivan County is defined by the Delaware River, and routes along the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway offer breathtaking views. The Neversink River is another prominent feature, with future expansions of the O&W Rail Trail planned to include a bridge over it. Routes like The Connecticut River & Bellows Falls loop from Charlestown also provide scenic riverfront cycling.

For more details on parks and recreational facilities in Sullivan County, you can refer to the official county resources. A brochure outlining parks is available on the Sullivan County website.