The best road cycling routes around Upper Saddle River

There are over 140 road cycling routes around Upper Saddle River, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and skill levels. These include easy, moderate, and difficult routes.

Road cycling in Upper Saddle River offers a tranquil and scenic experience. You can expect routes through tree-lined streets, a rural atmosphere, and areas bisected by the Saddle River, contributing to a picturesque landscape with varied terrain. Many routes feature mostly paved surfaces, making them ideal for road bikes.

Yes, Upper Saddle River offers several easy road cycling routes. For example, the Views of Franklin Lake loop from Ramsey is an easy 35.6 km ride with moderate elevation gain, perfect for a more relaxed outing. Additionally, nearby Saddle River County Park features a long, paved multi-use path ideal for leisurely rides.

For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Cedar Lake Swimming Dock – Mountain Lakes Dock and Boats loop from Ramsey offer a substantial 104.4 km ride with significant elevation gain. Another popular moderate option is the Mountain Lakes Dock and Boats – Taylortown Reservoir loop from Ramsey, covering 95.9 km with over 630 meters of ascent.

The road cycling routes around Upper Saddle River are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 29 reviews. Cyclists often praise the area's rural charm, tree-lined streets, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels, from scenic loops to more challenging rides with notable elevation changes.

Yes, the region offers several scenic spots. You might encounter picturesque views of the Saddle River, and nearby natural features like Wild Duck Pond or Lake Tappan. For a notable vista, consider routes that pass near Hawk Rock Viewpoint.

While Upper Saddle River maintains a rural feel, you can find refreshment stops in nearby towns. For example, the Ridgewood Coffee Company is a popular spot in the vicinity where cyclists can refuel.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Upper Saddle River. The tree-lined streets provide shade in warmer months, and the changing foliage in autumn creates a particularly scenic backdrop. Winters can be cold with potential for snow and ice, making cycling more challenging.

While many routes utilize local roads, the nearby Saddle River County Park, located about 20 minutes from Upper Saddle River, features a long, paved multi-use path that is excellent for dedicated cycling, jogging, or rollerblading, providing a smooth and safe riding experience.

Many of the road cycling routes around Upper Saddle River are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Between Suffern and Sloatsburg – Pompton Furnace loop from Ramsey and the Between Suffern and Sloatsburg – Skyline Drive loop from Allendale, providing convenient circular journeys.

Upper Saddle River has a rich history, with Dutch settlers building mills along the Saddle River in the 18th century. While specific historical sites directly on cycling routes aren't detailed, the area's rural charm and older architecture can offer glimpses into its past. You can learn more about the local history at the Upper Saddle River Historical Society website.