The best road cycling routes in Westchester County

Westchester County offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 480 routes available. These range from easy rides to more challenging ascents, catering to various skill levels.

You'll find a diverse landscape for road cycling in Westchester County. Routes often feature rolling hills, scenic roads alongside large reservoirs like the Kensico Reservoir, and sections with views of the Hudson River. The interior of the county also offers forested hills and valleys, providing varied terrain for cyclists.

The spring, summer, and fall months are generally ideal for road cycling in Westchester County. Fall is particularly popular for experiencing vibrant fall foliage. Additionally, during May, June, and September, a unique event called "Bicycle Sundays" closes a seven-mile stretch of the Bronx River Parkway to vehicles, offering a traffic-free cycling experience.

Many routes offer stunning natural scenery. You can cycle alongside impressive reservoirs such as the Kensico Reservoir and the New Croton Reservoir, often with views of the historic New Croton Dam. The region also provides breathtaking vistas of the Hudson River and passes through extensive parklands and forested areas.

Yes, several routes offer a blend of cycling and history. The Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Trail, for example, follows the path of a 19th-century aqueduct that supplied water to New York City. You can also encounter landmarks like the New Croton Dam, a significant engineering marvel.

Westchester County offers several dedicated multi-use trail systems that are excellent for family-friendly road cycling. These include the North County Trailway, South County Trailway (South County Trailway), and the Bronx River Pathway, which are paved and generally flatter, providing a safer and more enjoyable experience for all ages.

Many road cycling routes in Westchester County are accessible by car, with various parks and trailheads offering parking facilities. For public transport, some trailways, like the Bronx River Pathway, are accessible via Metro-North train stations, allowing for car-free access to cycling routes. Specific parking availability can vary by trailhead.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Westchester County are designed as loops, offering a continuous ride back to your starting point. Popular examples include the New Croton Reservoir Loop, the Kensico Reservoir Loop, and the Armonk Loop, which are well-regarded by the komoot community.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Westchester County pass through or near charming towns and villages, providing opportunities for breaks and refreshments. Routes like the North County Trailway – Trailside Café loop from Irvington specifically highlight places to stop. You'll often find cafes, delis, and small shops in these areas.

The road cycling routes in Westchester County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic beauty, varied terrain, and the well-maintained nature of the dedicated trailways and roads.

Absolutely. Westchester County is known for its excellent dedicated trailways. These include the North County Trailway, the South County Trailway (South County Trailway), the Bronx River Pathway, and the Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Trail. These offer extensive paved or crushed stone paths, providing safe and enjoyable cycling away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, for experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, Westchester County offers routes with significant elevation gain. For example, the Bear Mountain Double Loop and the Harriman Madness Loop are classified as difficult and feature substantial climbs, providing a rigorous workout amidst beautiful scenery.