The best cycling routes in Storm King State Park

Storm King State Park offers a selection of over 15 touring cycling routes. These routes vary in length and difficulty, providing options for different fitness levels and preferences.

The touring cycling routes in Storm King State Park are generally considered moderate to difficult, with a significant number of routes falling into the difficult category. For example, the Sunken Mine Road loop from Cold Spring is a challenging 40.2-mile path with substantial climbs, while the Long Pond – The Torne loop from United States Military Academy is a moderate 16.9-mile option.

Cyclists are treated to extensive and dramatic vistas of the Hudson River, the Catskills, and the broader Hudson Highlands. Many routes, especially those traversing the mountains, offer breathtaking panoramic views. A notable highlight is the North Point Summit, which provides beautiful perspectives encompassing the Hudson River, Breakneck Ridge, Butter Hill, and Storm King Mountain itself.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Storm King State Park are designed as loops. Examples include the challenging Indian Brook Road - gravel – Gravel stretch loop from Cold Spring, which is 55.1 miles, and the 24.3-mile Indian Brook Road - gravel – Sunken Mine Road loop from Cold Spring.

Yes, many routes in Storm King State Park and its surrounding areas feature a mix of well-paved surfaces and unpaved segments, particularly gravel sections. This adds to the challenging and varied terrain that touring cyclists can expect. The Graymoor Spiritual Life Center – Indian Brook Road - gravel loop from Cold Spring is a good example of a route with varied terrain and gravel sections.

The park's dramatic topography is defined by prominent features like Storm King Mountain and Butter Hill. You'll also find stunning viewpoints such as the Winding cliffside country road with beautiful views, offering expansive vistas of the Hudson River.

While specific designated parking for cyclists within the park's undeveloped areas isn't highlighted, cyclists often access routes from nearby towns like Cold Spring or Highland Falls, where parking options may be available. It's advisable to check local parking regulations for these access points.

Public transportation options to the immediate vicinity of Storm King State Park are limited due to its undeveloped nature. Cyclists typically drive to nearby towns or access points. For detailed public transport information, it's best to consult regional transit authorities for routes serving the Hudson Valley area.

Storm King State Park is largely undeveloped. This means you will not find amenities such as visitor centers, restrooms, campsites, or gift shops within the park itself. Cyclists should plan accordingly and be self-sufficient.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 4 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the dramatic mountain landscapes, the extensive Hudson River views, and the challenging elevation changes that define the touring experience here. Over 55 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain.

The Hudson Valley region, including Storm King State Park, offers beautiful cycling conditions during spring, summer, and fall. Autumn is particularly popular for its vibrant foliage. However, it's important to be aware that the Storm King Highway (Route 218) has historically experienced closures due to storm damage, so checking road conditions before your ride is recommended, especially outside of peak seasons.