The best road cycling routes around Clifton

There are over 180 road cycling routes around Clifton, catering to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy rides to more challenging excursions.

Yes, Clifton offers over 40 easy road cycling routes. These routes typically feature well-paved surfaces and moderate elevation changes, making them ideal for those new to road cycling or looking for a relaxed ride.

Road cycling routes in Clifton offer a mix of urban and suburban landscapes. You can expect scenic views, especially around natural features like the Wild Duck Pond and the Presby Iris Memorial Garden. Some routes also provide views of Paterson from spots like the Garrett Mountain Scenic Overlook.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Clifton offers several routes with significant elevation gains. One such route is the Brookside Drive – Orange Reservoir loop from Delawanna, which covers over 42 miles with substantial climbing.

The road cycling routes in Clifton are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained roads, varied elevation profiles, and the connections between local towns that offer diverse riding experiences.

Many of Clifton's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Brookside Drive – Presby Iris Memorial Garden loop from Montclair State University and the Francisco Avenue – Haledon Reservoir loop from Montclair Heights.

While specific public transport access points vary by route, many routes in Clifton start near urban centers or universities, which often have public transport connections. For example, the Brookside Drive – Presby Iris Memorial Garden loop starts from Montclair State University, which is typically accessible by public transport.

Yes, several routes pass by notable attractions. You might cycle past the Wild Duck Pond, the Presby Iris Memorial Garden, or even catch a glimpse of the View of Paterson from Garrett Mountain Scenic Overlook. The Saddle River Pathway South Entrance is also a key point on some routes.

The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road biking in Clifton, with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's advisable to ride earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

While the guide focuses on road cycling, the broader Clifton region, particularly Clifton Park, NY, offers family-friendly options like the Zim Smith Trail, an 11.5-mile paved multi-use path. For road cycling specifically, look for the 'easy' graded routes which tend to have less traffic and gentler terrain, such as the Saddle River – Wild Duck Pond loop from Delawanna.

Yes, several routes incorporate views of local water bodies. For instance, the Brookside Drive – Orange Reservoir loop takes you around the Orange Reservoir, and the Francisco Avenue – Haledon Reservoir loop passes near the Haledon Reservoir. You can also find routes that go by Wild Duck Pond and Barbour Pond.