Califon Train Station loop from Califon
Califon Train Station loop from Califon
2.6
(9)
34
riders
Califon Train Station loop from Califon
02:10
32.3km
90m
Cycling
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
97 m
Califon Train Station
Highlight • Historical Site
Supposedly, the name Califon comes from a shortening of "California", since the painter creating the station map didn't leave enough room for the original title.
Tip by
16.2 km
Columbia Trailhead Parking
Highlight • Bridge
This parking at the northern trailhead isn't very big, but a couple of cars can fit in it.
Tip by
32.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
29.0 km
3.02 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
24.3 km
4.97 km
2.44 km
535 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 4 July
36°C
21°C
60 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Califon Train Station loop from Califon is one of those touring cycling routes that perfectly blends history with natural beauty, offering a moderate 20.0-mile (32.3 km) ride with a gentle 280 feet (85 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 10 minutes. It's an ideal choice if you're looking for a scenic, accessible touring cycling experience that feels rewarding without being overly strenuous.
What to expect on Califon Train Station loop from Califon
Expect a journey primarily along the Columbia Trail, a former rail corridor that keeps the terrain mostly flat and manageable. You'll glide past river valleys and tranquil lake areas like Lake Solitude, with a significant highlight being the Ken Lockwood Gorge, where the trail hugs the South Branch of the Raritan River. The surface is mostly crushed stone, but be prepared for some gravel or dirt sections, making wider tires a good idea. This route is a fantastic option for families or anyone looking for a scenic, moderately challenging ride.
Planning your visit
While specific parking details aren't provided, the loop starts from Califon, a charming town that serves as a natural hub for exploring the Columbia Trail. Autumn is particularly recommended for its vibrant foliage, transforming the deciduous and evergreen forests into a spectacular display. The generally flat nature of the rail trail makes it enjoyable across many seasons, but always check local conditions before you go.
Trail details
- Distance: 20.0 miles (32.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 280 feet (85 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 10 minutes
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