The best road cycling routes around Brewster Heights

There are over 25 road cycling routes around Brewster Heights, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with 5 easy routes, 14 moderate routes, and 6 more challenging options.

Road cycling around Brewster Heights offers diverse terrain. You'll encounter a mix of paved rail-trails, which provide relatively flat sections, alongside areas with moderate elevation changes. The region features picturesque landscapes with scenic lakes and wooded areas, offering both gentle rides and satisfying climbs.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, the area offers extensive options. A notable route is the Empire State Trail: Hudson Valley Loop, which is a challenging 74-mile (119 km) route. Additionally, the Putnam Trailway, a 45-mile paved corridor, provides a long, scenic ride through the region.

The routes in Brewster Heights are rich with natural beauty. You can expect to see several beautiful bodies of water, including Lake Mahopac, Lake Casse, Lake Gleneida, and the Middle Branch Reservoir. The Maybrook Trailway itself offers varied scenery, and you might also encounter views from Mount Nimham or the Ninham Mountain Fire Tower.

Yes, there are several loop options. A popular choice is the Maybrook Trailway – Whaley Lake loop from Brewster, a moderate 49.5-mile (79.7 km) path that follows the Maybrook Trailway and passes by Whaley Lake. Another option is the shorter Quiet resting spot loop from Brewster.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from 9 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which includes both flat rail-trails and routes with significant elevation gain, as well as the scenic beauty of the lakes and wooded sections.

Yes, the paved rail-trails, such as sections of the Putnam Trailway, are generally suitable for families due to their relatively flat and well-maintained surfaces. These trails offer a safe and scenic environment for cyclists of all ages.

The region's picturesque landscapes, with shady hardwoods and beautiful bodies of water, are particularly enjoyable during spring, summer, and fall. Spring offers fresh greenery, summer provides lush scenery, and autumn brings vibrant foliage, making these seasons ideal for road cycling.

Beyond the scenic routes themselves, you can find several points of interest. The Maybrook Trailway is a highlight in itself. You can also find the Titicus Reservoir North Side, and for those interested in views, Mount Nimham and the Ninham Mountain Fire Tower offer elevated perspectives.

The Putnam Trailway, a significant cycling corridor, begins in Brewster at Putnam Avenue. This suggests good accessibility for those arriving by public transport, such as Metro-North, which often allows bikes with a permit. It's advisable to check specific train line policies for bike carriage.

While popular routes like the Putnam Trailway can see more activity, exploring some of the less-trafficked local roads or the quieter sections of the Maybrook Trailway, such as the Maybrook Trailway – Whaley Lake loop from Croton Falls, might offer a more serene experience. The region's extensive network provides opportunities to find quieter paths, especially during off-peak hours.