The best cycling routes around Westchester

Komoot features over 15 touring cycling routes in Westchester, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. Most of these routes are easy, with a few moderate options for those seeking a bit more challenge.

Westchester County is renowned for its extensive network of multi-use trailways, many of which are former railway lines, providing car-free paths. The region boasts nearly 50,000 acres of accessible open space, featuring diverse natural landscapes including picturesque reservoirs like Kensico and New Croton, and scenic views of the Hudson River. These elements combine to offer a unique blend of history, nature, and accessible cycling.

Yes, Westchester offers several options for longer rides. The North and South County Trailways together provide over 36 miles of continuous, paved cycling. This system further connects to the Putnam County Trailway, extending the ride to approximately 43.7 miles. Additionally, sections of the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail span 26.2 miles within Westchester, and the county's trails are part of the larger 750-mile Empire State Trail network, offering extensive long-distance touring opportunities.

Many of Westchester's trailways are ideal for families due to their flat, paved, and car-free nature. The North and South County Trailways are particularly suitable, offering a safe and pleasant environment for cyclists of all ages. The Bronx River Pathway also provides a serene, paved experience through lush greenery, perfect for a family outing.

Westchester's cycling routes offer numerous scenic viewpoints. The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail provides breathtaking views of the Hudson River. Routes around the Kensico and New Croton Reservoirs offer stunning vistas of the water and historic dams. Croton Gorge Park, at the base of the New Croton Dam, provides spectacular views of the dam's waterfall. Lenoir Preserve, adjacent to the Old Croton Aqueduct, is also a prime spot for Hudson River views.

While many of the primary trailways are linear, Westchester does offer notable loop routes. The Kensico Reservoir loop is approximately 21.2 miles, providing scenic views of the reservoir and the historic Kensico Dam. The New Croton Reservoir also features a 22.5-mile loop. For a more challenging option, the Teatown Lake Reservation offers a 21.7-mile touring cycling loop with diverse terrain and historical landmarks.

Westchester's routes pass through diverse natural landscapes. You can enjoy views of the Hudson River, several picturesque reservoirs (Kensico, New Croton, Titicus), and extensive green spaces. Parks like Rockefeller State Park Preserve offer varied landscapes including forested hills, valleys, fields, and Swan Lake, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Marshlands Conservancy is a wildlife sanctuary with forest, meadow, salt marsh, and shore, perfect for observing nature.

The touring cycling routes in Westchester are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from over 11 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained trailway systems, the scenic reservoir views, and the peaceful river-side paths that offer a pleasant escape into nature.

Yes, many of Westchester's major trailways are designed with public transport access in mind. Gotham Bicycle Tours, for example, offers scenic, transit-friendly tours starting from Metro-North train stations, indicating good connectivity. Cyclists can often reach trailheads via Metro-North, making it convenient to access the extensive network without a car.

Westchester County Parks provides detailed maps and brochures for its trailways, which include information on designated parking locations. For instance, the North and South County Trailways have various access points with parking available along their extensive lengths, making it convenient to start your ride at multiple points.

Absolutely. The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail is a National Historic Landmark itself, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Many of the rail-to-trail conversions, like the North County Trailway, feature historic marker plaques at former station locations. The Kensico Dam and New Croton Dam are also significant historical structures that cyclists can view along their routes.

Westchester offers enjoyable cycling experiences across multiple seasons. Spring and fall are particularly popular due to mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer provides lush green landscapes, though it can be warmer. While some trails may be accessible in winter, conditions can vary, so checking local trail conditions is always recommended.