The best road cycling routes around Hudson

Road cycling around Hudson, New York, offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find routes along the majestic Hudson River, through rolling countryside, and forested hills. The Catskill Mountains provide a scenic backdrop, and while there are flat riverside paths, many routes also feature gentle climbs and varied elevations suitable for different fitness levels.

While the guide primarily features moderate to difficult routes, the broader Hudson Valley offers sections of the Empire State Trail and various rail trails that are generally flatter and more accessible for beginners. These include parts of the Albany-Hudson Electric Trail, which connects Rensselaer to Hudson with mostly off-street riding on asphalt or stone dust surfaces.

The region is rich in scenic beauty. You can enjoy stunning views of the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains from many routes. Notable natural features include the Ashokan Reservoir, Mohonk Preserve, and Hudson Highlands State Park. Historic sites like Frances Slocum State Park also offer picturesque landscapes.

Yes, the Hudson Valley is home to significant long-distance cycling infrastructure. The Empire State Trail, a 750-mile multi-use trail, has a substantial portion running through the Hudson Valley, with much of it off-road. This allows for extended rides connecting various communities and natural areas.

Yes, several routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Susquehanna and Lackawanna Rivers loop offers a 29.9-mile circular ride, and the Susquehanna Warrior Trail Loop is another moderate 68.9 km option.

The Hudson Valley is particularly vibrant in autumn when the forested hills display stunning foliage. Spring and summer also offer excellent conditions for cycling, with pleasant temperatures. While winter cycling is possible, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially on less maintained roads.

While the routes in this guide are primarily moderate to difficult road cycling, the broader Hudson Valley features numerous rail trails that are often family-friendly. These include the Ashokan Rail Trail, Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, and Dutchess Rail Trail, which provide wide, uncrowded paths through woodlands and rolling hills, suitable for cyclists of all ages.

Parking availability varies by trail. For popular routes like the Albany-Hudson Electric Trail (part of the Empire State Trail) and the Ashokan Rail Trail, designated parking areas are typically available at trailheads. It's advisable to check specific trail resources for detailed parking information before your ride.

Absolutely. The Walkway Over the Hudson offers a unique 1.28-mile elevated cycling experience with panoramic river views. Additionally, the Rip Van Winkle Bridge (Hudson River Skywalk) allows cyclists to cross the Hudson River between Hudson and Catskill, providing spectacular elevated vistas.

Routes like the Wilkes-Barre to Harvey's Lake and Frances Slocum State Park loop, at 44.1 miles with significant elevation gain, offer a more challenging experience. The region's varied topography, with its rolling countryside and forested hills, provides plenty of opportunities for cyclists seeking more demanding climbs.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can encounter various attractions. Historic sites like Olana State Historic Site and Clermont State Historic Site offer cultural exploration and breathtaking views. You might also pass by features such as Campbells Ledge Reservoir, the Market Street Bridge, and the Susquehanna River.

Yes, routes like the Wilkes-Barre to Scranton loop connect urban centers through varied terrain, offering a blend of city and countryside cycling. The Empire State Trail also serves as a major connector, linking communities throughout the Hudson Valley.