Washington Rock – Brookside Drive loop from Union
Washington Rock – Brookside Drive loop from Union
4.6
(9504)
9,505
riders
Washington Rock – Brookside Drive loop from Union
02:37
49.4km
660m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 28.5 km for 73 m
After 29.6 km for 63 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
28.5 km
Washington Rock
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
29.6 km
View of the New York City Skyline
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
29.6 km
Crater View
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
33.8 km
View of South Mountain Reservation
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
33.9 km
Brookside Drive
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
37.0 km
Diamond Mill Pond
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
49.4 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
20.5 km
16.5 km
11.6 km
496 m
169 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
29.3 km
19.8 km
185 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (180 m)
Lowest point (10 m)
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Weather
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Tuesday 7 July
22°C
17°C
-- %
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a road cycling route that packs a punch with both historical significance and challenging climbs, the Washington Rock – Brookside Drive loop from Union is definitely worth your time. This moderate 30.7-mile (49.4 km) ride features 2151 feet (656 metres) of climbing, typically taking about 2 hours and 36 minutes to complete, making it a solid choice for cyclists with good fitness seeking a rewarding workout and panoramic views.
What to expect on Washington Rock – Brookside Drive loop from Union
Expect a varied landscape as you tackle this loop. The route will likely take you through wooded parklands and sections of the Watchung Reservation, offering a natural escape from the urban hustle. The highlight is undoubtedly Washington Rock, perched atop Watchung Mountain, where you can pause to take in panoramic views that might even include the New York City skyline on a clear day. Be prepared for significant elevation changes; if the route incorporates elements of the "Washington Rock & Roll Tour," you'll encounter steep climbs and challenging ascents, particularly crossing the First Watchung Mountain twice. This ride is best suited for road cyclists who enjoy a good workout and aren't afraid of some serious gradients.
Planning your visit
Planning your ride is straightforward, but keep one key detail in mind: Brookside Drive, a significant portion of this route within the South Mountain Reservation, is closed to motor vehicles on Sunday mornings. This offers a unique opportunity for a quieter, car-free cycling experience, making Sunday mornings an ideal time to tackle this loop. The route generally features well-paved surfaces, but good fitness is required to handle the elevation changes.
Trail details
- Distance: 30.7 miles (49.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 2151 feet (656 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 36 minutes
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