The best road cycling routes around West Long Branch

The Shore Tour North offers a delightful and easy road cycling experience, perfect for a relaxed day out. This 25.4-mile (40.9 km) route features a minimal 71 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for nearly everyone, and can be completed in about 1 hour and 35 minutes. You'll cycle past the tranquil Lake Takanassee, enjoy sections of the tree-lined Henry Hudson Trail, and eventually reach the expansive Atlantic Ocean, blending natural beauty with charming seaside elements.

Planning your visit is straightforward, though you should exercise caution at roadway crossings, particularly if cycling with children. While the route is generally smooth, some parts of the Henry Hudson Trail might have minor bumps from tree roots. Consider starting your ride in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest times and allocate extra time to fully appreciate the scenic viewpoints along the way.

This route is notable for its unique blend of natural and urban coastal environments, providing a distinct perspective on New Jersey's shoreline. It effectively connects different parts of the Monmouth County coast, offering an excellent opportunity to explore the region's character on two wheels. The inclusion of the Henry Hudson Trail, a traffic-free path, adds to its appeal as a family-friendly cycling option.

The Shore Tour North offers a delightful road cycling experience along the New Jersey coastline, perfect for those who enjoy a mix of natural beauty and charming seaside towns. You'll pedal along dedicated shared-use paths, including significant stretches of the Henry Hudson Trail and Sandy Hook, enjoying views of wetlands, streams, and fields, as well as the Atlantic Ocean as you near Point Pleasant Beach. The route's gentle 341 feet (104 metres) of elevation gain over 44.3 miles (71.2 km) makes it a moderate and accessible ride, typically taking around 2 hours and 43 minutes.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with parking generally available in the coastal towns that dot the route. It's a good idea to start early, especially if you're riding during the busy summer season, to beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquil moments. While much of the tour is on traffic-free paths, be prepared for a few short on-road sections and always be alert at roadway crossings. This route is well-suited for beginners and families looking for a scenic and manageable day trip.

What truly sets this route apart is its seamless connection of diverse coastal environments, from the serene Lake Takanassee to the lively atmosphere of seaside communities. It utilizes some of New Jersey's nicest shared-use paths, offering a unique perspective on the shore. Don't miss the chance to take in the expansive views from the historic Atlantic Highlands, which boasts the highest natural elevation on the eastern seaboard between Maine and the Yucatan, providing glimpses of Sandy Hook Bay and even the New York City skyline.

The Sandy Hook Multi-Use Path offers a delightful road cycling experience, blending coastal beauty with historical intrigue. You'll pedal along a wide, well-maintained asphalt surface, enjoying expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean and Sandy Hook Bay. The route also meanders through peaceful wooded areas, and on clear days, you might even spot the distant Manhattan skyline. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and various bird species as you explore.

This easy 28.5-mile (45.9 km) ride, with a minimal 341 feet (104 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for all skill levels and takes about 1 hour and 53 minutes to complete. It's open year-round, but arriving early on weekends is recommended to avoid potential entrance delays after 9 AM. Bike rentals are available in summer, and be ready for possible windy conditions, especially in the more open southern parts of the path.

Beyond the natural scenery, the trail is rich in history, guiding you past significant landmarks such as the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, the oldest working lighthouse in the United States, and the historic military structures of Fort Hancock. You'll also see Officers Row and the Nike radar site, offering a unique blend of outdoor activity and historical exploration that sets this route apart.

The Shore Tour North offers a delightful road cycling experience along the New Jersey coast, primarily utilizing shared-use paths. You'll pedal through diverse environments, from the tree-lined Henry Hudson Trail, winding past wetlands and fields, to the stunning coastal vistas of Sandy Hook. The route provides continuous views of the lower New York Harbor and beaches, culminating in the historic Atlantic Highlands where Mount Mitchell Scenic Overlook offers panoramic views of Sandy Hook Bay and the New York City skyline.

This easy 22.9-mile (36.8 km) route, with a minimal 152 feet (46 metres) of elevation gain, is designed for a leisurely pace, taking approximately 1 hour and 22 minutes. While mostly traffic-free, be mindful of some sections on the Henry Hudson Trail that have bumps from tree roots and a few roadway crossings. It's a fantastic option for beginner road cycling routes or families looking for a relaxed ride, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery.

Sandy Hook, a 7-mile peninsula within the Gateway National Recreation Area, is a significant highlight, offering natural landscapes and historical landmarks like the Twin Lights State Historic Site. The route also passes Lake Takanassee, adding another scenic element. This tour is perfect for those who want to combine gentle exercise with rich coastal scenery and a touch of local history, making it a notable option in the region.

This extensive road cycling route, the Little Silver to Atlantic Highlands loop via Edgar Felix Bike Path, offers a comprehensive tour of Monmouth County's varied landscapes. You'll transition from the tranquil, tree-lined sections of the Edgar Felix Bike Path, passing open fields and even farm animals, to the dynamic coastal scenery and bay views around Atlantic Highlands, complete with distant glimpses of the New York City skyline. It's a demanding journey that showcases the region's natural beauty and diverse environments.

Prepare for a significant undertaking; this is a difficult ride covering 94.3 miles (151.8 km) with 2145 feet (654 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring around 6 hours and 18 minutes. While the Edgar Felix Bike Path itself is relatively smooth, the full loop includes challenging on-road segments and inclines, so ensure you have very good fitness and are ready for an endurance test. There are opportunities for rest stops along the Edgar Felix Bike Path, but carry ample supplies.

This loop incorporates New Jersey's historic Edgar Felix Bike Path, the state's first cycling trail, and the Henry Hudson Trail, both offering paved, scenic sections. The route is a challenging achievement for road cyclists looking for an epic ride that combines peaceful inland stretches with vibrant coastal towns and stunning waterfront vistas, making it one of the best road cycling loops in Monmouth County.