The best road cycling routes in Sullivan County

Sullivan County, nestled within the Catskill Mountains, offers a diverse range of terrain for road cyclists. You'll find everything from challenging climbs and rewarding descents in the mountainous areas to rolling hills, dense forests, and tranquil river valleys. Routes often feature scenic backdrops of numerous lakes and reservoirs, providing a varied and engaging cycling experience.

Yes, Sullivan County offers routes suitable for various skill levels. While many routes feature rolling hills, there are easier options available. For example, the Plainfield loop from Cornish is an easy 20.4-mile ride, and the Eastman Lake Loop Trail is another easy option. Additionally, while often multi-use, rail trails like sections of the O&W Rail Trail offer flatter, paved segments ideal for leisurely rides.

Road cycling in Sullivan County provides access to stunning natural beauty. You can ride along the majestic Delaware River, offering picturesque views and opportunities to cross into Pennsylvania. Many routes also loop around serene lakes and reservoirs such as Swinging Bridge Reservoir, Sackett Lake, and Neversink Reservoir. The region's dense forests and wetlands, especially along rail trails, are home to diverse wildlife.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Sullivan County's Catskill Mountain terrain provides plenty of opportunities for significant climbing. Routes like the Lake Sunapee loop from Claremont and the Lake Sunapee & Gile State Forest loop from Grantham are rated as difficult, featuring substantial elevation gains and rewarding descents.

Several routes offer glimpses of interesting landmarks. You might pass through areas like Washington, or encounter historic structures such as the Prentiss Covered Bridge and the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge. The Old Connecticut River Road also offers a scenic and historic cycling experience.

There are over 30 road cycling routes available in Sullivan County on komoot, offering a wide variety of distances and difficulty levels. This includes 3 easy routes, 25 moderate routes, and 6 difficult routes, ensuring options for every cyclist.

The road cycling routes in Sullivan County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging climbs to scenic river valleys, and the beautiful natural backdrops provided by the Catskill Mountains and numerous lakes.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Sullivan County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Lake Sunapee & Newport loop from Grantham, the Bellows Falls & the Connecticut River loop from Claremont, and the Washington loop from Newport.

The best time for road cycling in Sullivan County is typically from spring through fall. Spring offers fresh greenery, while summer provides warm weather for longer rides. Autumn is particularly stunning, with the Catskill Mountains showcasing vibrant fall foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially for potential winter road conditions.

Many road cycling routes in Sullivan County pass through or near charming hamlets and towns such as Monticello, Barryville, Woodbourne, Livingston Manor, and Loch Sheldrake. These areas typically offer opportunities for refreshments, meals, and places to rest. Some routes may also feature designated rest stops, like the sheltered picnic area.

Yes, Sullivan County is actively working on enhancing its cycling infrastructure. The county is developing a Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan to improve connections for both residents and visitors, indicating a growing commitment to making the area even more cyclist-friendly. You can find more information on the county's planning efforts at sullivanny.gov.

For those looking for longer rides, Sullivan County offers several options. The Lake Sunapee loop from Claremont covers over 70 miles, providing a significant distance for endurance training. Other routes like the Lake Sunapee & Newport loop from Grantham and the Bellows Falls & the Connecticut River loop from Claremont also offer substantial distances.