The best road cycling routes around Englewood Cliffs

There are over 140 road cycling routes around Englewood Cliffs, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.

Road cycling in Englewood Cliffs is characterized by the dramatic Palisades cliffs and scenic Hudson River views. You can expect significant elevation changes, providing both challenging climbs and rewarding descents. The routes often traverse forested areas within the Palisades Interstate Park, offering a varied and engaging landscape.

Yes, approximately 57 of the routes are rated as easy. An excellent option for an easy ride is the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier – Little Island loop from 181st Street, which is 18.2 miles long and offers scenic waterfront views.

Englewood Cliffs is known for its challenging terrain, particularly along Henry Hudson Drive and the Palisades. Routes like the Climb up to Alpine – 9W Market loop from Fort Lee, a 32.8-mile path, feature significant climbs and panoramic views of the Hudson River. Another challenging option is the Climb up to Alpine – 9W Market loop from Englewood Cliffs, which covers 40.4 miles through demanding terrain.

The region offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the New York City skyline. Notable viewpoints include the Rockefeller Lookout. You might also pass by landmarks such as the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir East Side, Cleopatra's Needle, and Belvedere Castle, especially on routes that extend into nearby areas.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Center Drive, Central Park – Cat’s Paw Hill loop from 175th Street is an easy 13.4-mile loop, and the Washington Square Arch – Grand Central Terminal loop from 191st Street offers a moderate 23.2-mile ride.

The best time for road cycling is typically from mid-April to mid-November, when Henry Hudson Drive is generally open to cyclists. Some sections may close during winter months due to weather conditions. Always check local park advisories for current road status before planning your ride.

Yes, a notable section is Old Route 9W, an approximately 1.5-mile stretch on the summit of the Palisades from U.S. Route 9W to State Line Lookout. This section is closed to automobile traffic, providing a safer and more relaxed environment popular with both cyclists and pedestrians.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 180 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the dramatic cliffside landscapes, panoramic river views, and the challenging uphill climbs that make for a rewarding experience.

While many routes feature significant climbs, the car-free section of Old Route 9W offers a safer and more relaxed environment that can be suitable for families. For easier, flatter rides, consider routes like the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier – Little Island loop from 181st Street, which is rated easy and offers scenic waterfront views.

Access to the Palisades Interstate Park and its cycling routes, including Henry Hudson Drive, is available at various points. Cyclists often utilize parking areas within the park or in nearby towns like Fort Lee and Englewood Cliffs. Specific access points are usually detailed on individual route descriptions.