The best road cycling routes in Greene County

Greene County, nestled in the Catskill Mountains, offers a diverse and engaging road cycling experience. You'll encounter hilly and curvy roads that wind through mountains, alongside rivers like the Schoharie Creek and Batavia Kill, and through dense forests. Expect significant elevation changes, providing both demanding climbs and exhilarating descents across varied topography.

While many routes in Greene County feature significant elevation changes, the region offers options for various fitness levels. For those seeking a less strenuous ride, consider routes that focus on flatter sections along river valleys or through charming hamlets. The Bell Lake loop from David Elder Cemetery, for instance, offers varied landscapes with a moderate ascent, making it a good option for those looking for a balanced ride.

Greene County is rich in natural beauty. Many routes offer magnificent views along designated New York State Scenic Byways, such as the Mountain Cloves Scenic Byway and the Durham Valley Scenic Byway. You can expect to see the majestic Catskill Mountains, refreshing glimpses of riffles and waterfalls along the Batavia Kill, and scenic sections along the Schoharie Reservoir. The Hudson River also forms the eastern border, providing picturesque views.

Absolutely. Greene County is known for its challenging terrain, including some of the East Coast's most demanding climbs. Routes like the 'Ultimate Catskills Experience' (not listed in the guide data, but mentioned in region research) include notorious sections like 'Devil's Kitchen,' known for its difficulty and significant descents. The routes in this guide, such as the Cemetery Hill loop from Walker United Methodist Church, offer substantial elevation gains over longer distances, providing a good test for experienced cyclists.

Our guide features 7 highly-rated road cycling routes in Greene County, all of which are classified as moderate difficulty. These routes showcase the best of the region's diverse landscapes and are popular among the komoot community.

The road cycling routes in Greene County vary in length, generally ranging from approximately 30 to 46 miles (49 to 74 kilometers). You can expect significant elevation gains, typically between 1,000 to over 1,700 feet (300 to 525 meters) per route, reflecting the region's hilly and mountainous character. For example, the Roadbike loop from Wallace Dam covers about 41 miles with over 1,700 feet of ascent.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular loops, designed to bring you back to your starting point. This includes popular options like the Hill Park loop from Morgan County Elementary School and the Roadbike loop from Darwin Subdivision, allowing for convenient exploration of the region's scenery.

Road cyclists frequently praise Greene County for its stunning Catskill Mountain scenery, winding river valleys, and forested hills. The diverse terrain, offering both challenging climbs and exhilarating descents, is a major draw. Many appreciate the 'endless miles of bicycle tour loops' and the opportunity to experience the region's natural beauty and charming hamlets.

The Catskill Mountains region, including Greene County, is generally best for road cycling during the spring, summer, and fall months. Spring brings fresh greenery, while summer offers warm weather. Autumn is particularly spectacular with vibrant fall foliage, making it a highly scenic time to ride. Winter cycling can be challenging due to snow and ice.

Beyond the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains and river valleys, you might encounter charming villages and historic sites along the scenic byways. The region is also home to iconic natural attractions like Kaaterskill Falls, a stunning two-stage waterfall. While cycling, keep an eye out for views of the Hudson River and the picturesque landscapes that inspired the Hudson River School of painting.

Greene County and the wider Catskills region host notable cycling events, such as the 'Tour of the Catskills.' Local establishments like Windham Mountain Outfitters also cater to cyclists, providing aid, mechanic services, and guided group rides during the summer. For broader information on cycling in the Catskills, you can visit visitcatskills.com/cycling/.