The best cycling routes around Franklin
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Touring cycling around Franklin offers diverse landscapes, characterized by rolling hills, scenic river valleys, and extensive trail systems. The region features a mix of paved paths, greenways, and rural roads, providing varied terrain for cyclists. These areas often include forested sections, open farmland, and connections to local parks and landmarks. The Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile scenic route, provides a significant portion free from commercial traffic, offering an immersive natural experience.
Best touring cycling routes around Franklin
- The most popular touring cycling route is Warbasse Junction – Paulinskill Lake loop from Lafayette Township, a 24.2 miles (38.9 km) trail that takes 3 hours 31 minutes to complete. This moderate route features varied terrain around the lake.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Sussex Branch Trail – Sussex Branch Trail loop from Lafayette Township, a moderate 20.3 miles (32.6 km) path. This route follows a historic rail trail, offering a relatively flat and scenic ride.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Warbasse Junction – Paulinskill Lake loop from Lafayette Township, a 16.2 miles (26.0 km) trail leading through forested areas and alongside the lake, often completed in about 2 hours 26 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Franklin is defined by rolling hills, river paths, and historic greenways. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy paved trails to more challenging routes with elevation changes.
- The routes in Franklin are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. More than 40 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Franklin's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
5.0
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12
riders
38.9km
03:32
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
19.8km
01:44
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
riders
23.4km
02:09
110m
110m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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18.1km
01:50
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Green Trail winds through woods, rocky spots, and some open areas. It’s a moderate trail that mixes smooth stretches with a few technical challenges, making for a fun ride.
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Paulinskill Lake was created after a dam was constructed across the river in Stillwater Township in the 1920s. From this point in the rail trail, there is a great view of the lake.
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The Paulinskill Valley Trail is a 27-mile trail that follows along a river of the same name. The trail is mostly gravel and dirt. This section runs alongside Paulinskill Lake and there are several points where you get a great view of the water.
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Warbasse Junction is the intersection of the Sussex Branch Trail and the Paulinskill Valley Trail. There are no facilities at this spot, but there are some information boards to give you some valuable information about the area.
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The Sussex Branch Trail is a 21-mile multiuse trail. The trail follows an old railroad corridor and runs between Branchville and Byram. The path is unpaved and changes between dirt, grass, and cinder.
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Great, small wooden bridge over Paulins Kill River. The river is very narrow and not very deep at this point, so the bridge is a short walk to get across. The bridge has no hand ropes, so make sure you are physically able to cross the bridge before attempting.
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Paulinskill River Wildlife Management Area is a 2,300 acre nature preserve along the Paulinskill River. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including eagles, herons, turtles, and bobcats. The Sussex Branch Trail runs through the southern section of the WMA.
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Kittatinny Valley State Park, spanning Andover Township and Borough in New Jersey, offers diverse features. Glacial lakes, limestone outcroppings, former railroads, and a small airport contribute to its unique landscape. Lake Aeroflex and Gardner's Pond, part of the Pequest River's headwaters, are ideal for fishing and boating. Abundant wildlife, including deer, turkeys, songbirds, beavers, muskrats, and squirrels, thrives in the park. Managed by the New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry, it provides a rich natural experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Franklin, and what are their difficulty levels?
Franklin offers a selection of 10 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 2 easy routes, 7 moderate routes, and 1 more challenging route, ensuring options for most cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Franklin?
The touring cycling routes around Franklin feature diverse terrain, including rolling hills, scenic river paths, and historic greenways. You'll find a mix of paved paths and rural roads, often leading through forested areas and alongside lakes, providing varied landscapes for your ride.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Franklin?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Franklin are designed as loops. For example, you can explore the Warbasse Junction – Paulinskill Lake loop from Lafayette Township, which offers varied terrain around the lake, or the Sussex Branch Trail – Sussex Branch Trail loop from Lafayette Township, following a historic rail trail.
What natural attractions or points of interest can I see along touring cycling routes in Franklin?
While cycling in Franklin, you can encounter several natural points of interest. Keep an eye out for serene bodies of water like Saffin Pond and Heaters Pond. You might also pass through forested areas with features like the Forest Stream in Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, or even spot the Highest Point in Morris County.
Are there options for both shorter and longer touring cycling routes in Franklin?
Absolutely. Franklin offers a range of route lengths. For a longer ride, consider the Warbasse Junction – Paulinskill Lake loop from Lafayette Township, which is about 24.2 miles (38.9 km). If you prefer a shorter option, the Bike loop from Andover Township is an easy 8.5 miles (13.7 km) ride.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Franklin?
The best time for touring cycling in Franklin is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, from lush greenery to colorful autumn foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Franklin?
The touring cycling routes in Franklin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the scenic beauty of the lakes and forested areas, and the well-maintained paths that offer a pleasant riding experience.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Franklin has easy routes perfect for beginners or families. The Bike loop from Andover Township is an easy 8.5-mile (13.7 km) route, providing a gentle introduction to touring cycling in the area.
What is the longest touring cycling route available in Franklin?
The longest touring cycling route in Franklin is the Warbasse Junction – Paulinskill Lake loop from Lafayette Township, covering 24.2 miles (38.9 km) with a moderate difficulty level.
Can I find routes that follow historic trails in Franklin?
Yes, you can. The Sussex Branch Trail – Sussex Branch Trail loop from Lafayette Township is a moderate 20.3-mile (32.6 km) path that follows a historic rail trail, offering a relatively flat and scenic ride through the area's past.
Are there routes with significant elevation changes for more experienced cyclists?
While many routes feature rolling hills, the Warbasse Junction – Paulinskill Lake loop from Lafayette Township, with an elevation gain of approximately 192 meters, offers a good challenge for those seeking more significant climbs.
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