The best cycling routes around Gates
4.6
(27)
355
riders
33
rides
If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling around Gates, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many paths crisscrossing the region, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – sifting through countless maps to find those truly rewarding rides can feel like a full-time job.
That's where komoot comes in. Our community of local riders has mapped, ridden, and reviewed the best…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(1)
27
riders
77.9km
05:38
210m
200m
The Rochester to Mendon loop via Erie Canal Trail offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, blending historical significance with natural beauty. You'll pedal through picturesque woodlands and charming communities, with…
4.0
(3)
17
riders
25.5km
01:53
210m
210m
The Genesee Riverway Trail offers a unique touring cycling experience, weaving through Rochester's urban core and natural riverfront. You'll pedal alongside the Genesee River, passing through eleven parks, four of…
3.5
(2)
9
riders
9.12km
00:32
20m
20m
The Genesee Riverway Trail offers a delightful touring bicycle experience, weaving through Rochester with a unique blend of urban accessibility and natural beauty. You'll follow the Genesee River, enjoying continuous…
4
riders
25.3km
01:32
80m
80m
The Genesee Riverway Trail is an easy touring cycling route that winds through Rochester, New York, offering a unique blend of urban landscapes and natural riverine beauty. You'll pedal along…
2
riders
53.3km
03:07
150m
140m
The Erie Canalway Trail from Rochester to Brockport offers a delightful touring cycling experience, tracing the historic canal through a mix of rural scenery and charming towns. You'll ride past…
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Popular around Gates
Tips from the Community
The Court Street Dam, just south of Court Street's crossing of the Genesee River, was built in 1927. It replaced the Mohawk Dam that was built in 1917.
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This is an old historic bridge built in 1893. You will pass an information board on the Promenade that details the history of the three attempts that were made at its construction. You may need to dismount your bike to cross the bridge itself if you are making a loop with the Genesee River Trail. From here you get a great view of the Frederick Douglass Susan B Anthony Bridge.
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The Greenway sweeps under the triple arch steel bridge as you follow the Genesee River. The Frederick Douglass Susan B Anthony Bridge, also known as the "Anthony Bridge" or "Freddie Sue Bridge" was built in 2007 and is an icon of downtown Rochester.
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The trail here is paved and runs right along the river's edge. You get fantastic views from North Star Commons, which doubles as a market and urban scenic area with plenty of interesting architecture.
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The Lehigh Valley Trail is a 15-mile multi-use trail. The trail is gravel, so it is best done on a hybrid or mountain bike. It is completely traffic free, so it's perfect for a family ride.
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The Genesee Riverway Trail is a mixed used trail that runs along the Genesee River for 24 miles. It is majority off-road; however, there are some sections that join up with low traffic roads.
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Lower Falls is an easy waterfall to view. From the Genesee Riverway Trail, you get a good view of the 110 foot waterfall. The crest of the waterfall is from a man-made dam, which spreads out the water across the sandstone.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Gates, New York?
There are over 35 touring cycling routes around Gates, New York, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. You can find routes along the historic Erie Canal and the scenic Genesee River.
What are the best routes for beginners or families in Gates?
For an easy and family-friendly ride, consider the Genesee Riverway Trail. This 5.7-mile (9.1 km) route leads through riverine landscapes and is often completed in about 32 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. Many of the 19 easy routes in the area are suitable for beginners.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in the Gates area?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, the area offers a few difficult routes. A notable one is the Rochester to Mendon loop via Erie Canal Trail, which spans 48.4 miles (77.9 km) and takes approximately 5 hours 37 minutes to complete, featuring sections along the historic Erie Canal.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Gates?
The touring cycling routes around Gates, New York, are primarily characterized by generally flat to gently rolling terrain. Many paths follow waterways like the Erie Canal and Genesee River, providing a mix of natural views and historical points of interest with minimal elevation changes.
What can I see along the touring cycling routes in Gates?
Along the routes, you can explore several interesting sights. The Erie Canal Trail and Genesee Riverway Trail themselves offer scenic views. You might also pass by the Frederick Douglass Susan B Anthony Bridge and enjoy the View of Court Street Dam.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Gates?
Yes, there are circular routes available. The Rochester to Mendon loop via Erie Canal Trail is an example of a longer circular route, offering a comprehensive tour of the area's canal paths and landscapes.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Gates?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 24 reviews. Reviewers often praise the flat and accessible nature of the canal paths and river trails, making for enjoyable and scenic rides.
What is the typical length and duration of touring cycling routes in Gates?
Route lengths vary significantly. You can find shorter rides like the 5.7-mile Genesee Riverway Trail, which takes about 32 minutes, up to longer excursions such as the 48.4-mile Rochester to Mendon loop, requiring over 5 hours.
Are there any point-to-point touring cycling routes in the Gates area?
Yes, many routes utilize the extensive canal and river trail networks, offering excellent point-to-point options. The Erie Canalway Trail: Rochester to Brockport is a popular moderate point-to-point route, covering 33.1 miles (53.3 km) along the Erie Canal.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Gates, New York?
Given the region's climate, the best time for touring cycling in Gates, New York, is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn. This period offers pleasant temperatures and generally dry conditions, ideal for enjoying the canal paths and river trails.
Are there any amenities like cafes or pubs along the cycling routes?
While specific amenities directly on every trail segment are not detailed, routes along the Erie Canal and Genesee River often pass through or near towns and urban areas like Rochester, where you can find various cafes, pubs, and other services to refuel and relax.
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