The best road cycling routes around Monsey

There are over 80 road cycling routes around Monsey, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. You can find routes varying in length and difficulty, from easy rides to challenging ascents.

Road cycling around Monsey is characterized by its "rocky land" terrain and varied elevations. You'll find a mix of paved paths, gentle grades, and more challenging ascents. The region boasts abundant parkland and scenic views, including sections of the Hudson River Palisades and several lakes.

Yes, Monsey offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Ridgewood – Wild Duck Pond loop from Monsey is an easy 24.5-mile trail that takes about 1 hour 37 minutes to complete, leading through varied local terrain. Another easy option is the Allendale Train Station – Ridgewood loop from Upper Saddle River.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Monsey's varied elevations provide several demanding routes. The Bear Mountain Climb – View from Bear Mountain Summit loop from Nanuet is a difficult 57.0-mile path featuring significant elevation gain, leading to the Bear Mountain Summit. The region's "rocky land" terrain can involve ascents of up to 1500 feet, such as the Seven Lakes Drive Ascent to Lake Sebago.

Many routes offer beautiful scenery. You can enjoy extensive views along the Hudson River on routes like the Hudson River Greenway – The Little Red Lighthouse loop from Nanuet. Other routes pass by picturesque lakes such as Pine Meadow Lake, Third Reservoir, and Lake Wanoksink. The Bear Mountain Climb route offers stunning views from the summit.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Monsey are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Ridgewood – Wild Duck Pond loop from Monsey and the Little Long Pond – Lake Welch Beach loop from Spring Valley. These circular routes provide a convenient way to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

The road cycling routes in Monsey are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, ranging from challenging ascents to scenic routes along the Hudson River and past various lakes. The abundant parkland also contributes to a pleasant riding experience.

Absolutely. The region around Monsey is dotted with beautiful lakes. The Little Long Pond – Lake Welch Beach loop from Spring Valley is one such route that takes you past water bodies. You can also find routes that offer views of Rockland Lake and Franklin Lake, and the Seven Lakes Drive Ascent leads to Lake Sebago, a great spot for a break.

The diverse landscapes of Monsey make it suitable for road cycling across multiple seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Cyclists should be aware that some routes with significant elevation gain might be more challenging in extreme weather conditions.

Beyond the natural beauty, routes may pass by various points of interest. Cyclists can encounter highlights such as Big Hill, Jackie Jones Mountain, and the Stony Brook Trail. The Hudson River views, including those of the Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, are also notable landmarks along many routes.

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, Monsey serves as a great starting point. The Hudson River Greenway – The Little Red Lighthouse loop from Nanuet is an extensive 82.3-mile (132.5 km) trail that typically takes around 5 hours 46 minutes to complete, offering a full day's adventure with significant views.