The best traffic-free bike rides in Middlesex County

There are 18 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Middlesex County featured in this guide. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful cycling experience away from vehicular traffic.

Middlesex County's no-traffic routes offer a variety of surfaces. You'll find well-maintained gravel paths, particularly along the historic Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath, as well as paved multi-use trails like the Middlesex Greenway. Many routes are converted rail trails, providing generally flat and smooth surfaces suitable for touring bikes.

Yes, 12 of the 18 no-traffic touring cycling routes in Middlesex County are rated as easy. These typically feature minimal elevation changes and smooth surfaces. An excellent option for beginners is the Six Mile Run Reservoir Site – Bridge over Six Mile Run loop from Adams, which is 13.8 km long and offers a gentle ride.

Many routes offer access to beautiful natural features. You can explore the Rutgers Ecological Preserve, which is part of the Rutgers Ecological Preserve – Old East Jersey loop from Edison. The Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath also provides scenic views of the Raritan River and various natural landscapes. You might also encounter areas like Plainsboro Pond or Lake Carnegie.

Absolutely. The Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath is rich in history, following a canal built in the 1830s, with historic markers along the way. Routes like the View of the D&R Canal loop from Kingston or the View of the D&R Canal – Raritan Canal Towpath loop from New Brunswick will take you past historical sites and structures such as the Wooden Bridge and the Carnegie Lake Dam.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Middlesex County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.32 out of 5 stars from 35 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the well-maintained surfaces of paths like the D&R Canal Towpath, and the scenic views of rivers, canals, and natural preserves.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes in Middlesex County are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the View of the D&R Canal loop from Kingston (46.28 km) and the View of the D&R Canal – Raritan Canal Towpath loop from New Brunswick (49.13 km), both offering extensive car-free cycling.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for cycling in Middlesex County, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer weather. While routes are accessible year-round, some unpaved sections might be muddy after heavy rain or have seasonal advisories, so it's always good to check local conditions before heading out.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes, especially the easy-rated ones and those on paved rail trails like the Middlesex Greenway, are very suitable for families. Their car-free nature provides a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages. The generally flat terrain makes them accessible for children and less experienced riders.

Several no-traffic routes in Middlesex County, particularly those connecting urban areas, offer good access via public transport. For instance, routes originating from New Brunswick, such as the View of the D&R Canal – Raritan Canal Towpath loop from New Brunswick, are often reachable by train or bus, allowing for convenient access without needing a car.

Yes, many routes pass through or near towns and communities where you can find cafes, restaurants, and pubs. For example, routes along the Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath near New Brunswick or Princeton offer various dining options. Similarly, the Middlesex Greenway connects Metuchen, Edison, and Woodbridge, providing opportunities for refreshments along your ride.

Parking is generally available at various access points for the major no-traffic routes. For the Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath, you can often find parking lots in towns like Kingston, New Brunswick, or Princeton that are adjacent to the canal. The Middlesex Greenway also has designated parking areas at its trailheads in Metuchen, Edison, and Woodbridge.