The best road cycling routes around Hillsdale

Hillsdale offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 190 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, from leisurely rides to more challenging excursions.

Road cycling in Hillsdale features a diverse landscape, characterized by a mix of paved surfaces and varied elevation gains. You'll find routes that navigate around numerous lakes and through areas with natural features, providing varied terrain for exploration. Some routes may include unpaved sections, requiring good fitness.

Yes, Hillsdale has options for all skill levels. There are over 60 easy road cycling routes available, perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. For example, the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir loop from Woodcliff Lake is an easy route covering about 20.8 miles (33.4 km).

The diverse landscapes of Hillsdale make it appealing for road cycling through much of the year. Spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. While winter cycling is possible, some multi-use trails like sections of the North Country Trail are also popular for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during colder months.

The road cycling routes in Hillsdale are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 3,800 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Hillsdale's varied terrain, often praising the scenic beauty and diverse cycling experiences.

Absolutely. Hillsdale County is rich with numerous lakes and waterways. You can find routes that pass by beautiful spots like Oradell Reservoir, Wild Duck Pond, and Lake Tappan. Baw Beese Lake is a significant hub for recreation, featuring Sandy Beach and a bike/hiking trail.

Yes, Hillsdale offers routes with interesting natural features and landmarks. The Wild Duck Pond – Allendale Train Station loop from Westwood, for instance, takes you past the scenic Wild Duck Pond. You might also encounter the unique historic bridges at McCourtie Park or sections of the expansive North Country Trail system, which offers a sense of untouched natural beauty.

The Joseph Clark Rail Trail South of Sparkill is a multi-use pathway that can be incorporated into road cycling routes. Additionally, the Baw Beese Trail is a significant multi-use, non-motorized pathway that offers both biking and hiking opportunities, and it's integrated into the extensive North Country Trail system.

Hillsdale offers several family-friendly cycling options, particularly on its multi-use trails and around city parks. The Baw Beese Trail is a great choice for families, providing a safe and scenic environment. Many of the 'easy' rated routes are also suitable for families looking for a pleasant ride together.

Parking is generally available at various access points for trails and parks in Hillsdale. For example, areas around Baw Beese Lake and Hillsdale College Hayden Park offer parking facilities. Specific route starting points often have designated parking, which you can usually find detailed on individual route descriptions on komoot.

Yes, you can find places to refuel near many cycling routes. The 9W Market is a notable cafe that cyclists often frequent. Hillsdale's city center and areas around popular lakes will also offer various dining options to grab a bite or a coffee.

For cyclists seeking a greater challenge, Hillsdale provides numerous moderate and difficult routes. For instance, the East of the Orchards – Orchards of Conklin loop from Westwood is a moderate route spanning over 45 miles (73.8 km) with significant elevation gain, offering a more demanding experience.