The best road cycling routes around Loch Sheldrake

The region around Loch Sheldrake, part of the Catskills, offers varied terrain for road cyclists. You'll find rural roads, winding paths through dense forests and farmlands, and significant elevation changes. Routes often feature scenic views of reservoirs and the mountainous backdrop of the Catskills.

While the routes listed in this guide are generally classified as moderate, the broader Catskills region around Loch Sheldrake does offer diverse terrain. Some routes feature well-paved roads circling reservoirs, which can be more accessible. For example, the Rondout Reservoir – Time And The Valleys Museum loop from Loch Sheldrake is a moderate route that offers scenic views and a good experience for those comfortable with longer distances.

Experienced road cyclists will find routes with significant elevation gains in the Loch Sheldrake area. The Catskills are known for challenging climbs, with some routes extending over 5 hours and featuring more than 3,000 feet of climbing. The Neversink Reservoir loop from Loch Sheldrake, for instance, includes varied terrain and notable ascents, making it a good option for those looking for a workout.

Many routes in the area are designed to showcase the natural beauty of the Catskills. The Rondout Reservoir – Time And The Valleys Museum loop from Loch Sheldrake and the Neversink Reservoir loop from Loch Sheldrake both offer picturesque views of their respective reservoirs and the surrounding rural landscapes. The Hanging Rock Falls loop from Loch Sheldrake also leads through beautiful Catskills scenery.

While cycling, you'll encounter the overarching beauty of the Catskill Mountains, providing forested backdrops. Prominent features include the Neversink and Rondout Reservoirs, which are often central to scenic routes. You'll also pass through charming rural areas with farmlands and old stone houses, enhancing the scenic experience.

Yes, all the routes highlighted in this guide are circular loops, designed to bring you back to your starting point. Examples include the Rondout Reservoir – Time And The Valleys Museum loop from Loch Sheldrake, the Neversink Reservoir loop from Loch Sheldrake, and the Hanging Rock Falls loop from Loch Sheldrake.

The Catskills region generally offers excellent cycling conditions from spring through fall. Spring brings fresh greenery, while autumn is renowned for its spectacular fall foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Specific parking information for individual routes is best found on the detailed route pages. However, Loch Sheldrake itself has a small fishing pier and picnic tables, which may offer limited parking options. For routes starting from specific towns or trailheads, look for designated parking areas or public parking facilities in those locations.

Accessing specific road cycling routes directly by public transport in the rural Loch Sheldrake area can be challenging. It's generally recommended to travel by car to reach the starting points of these routes. For broader regional transport information, you might consult resources like Visit Catskills, though direct route access via public transport is limited.

Generally, no specific permits are required for road cycling on public roads in the Loch Sheldrake area or the Catskills. However, if any part of a route passes through private land or specific protected areas, it's always advisable to check for any local regulations or signage. The reservoirs, for example, are part of the NYC watershed, and while cycling around them is permitted, specific rules may apply to access points or activities directly on the water.

The routes around Loch Sheldrake often pass through rural areas and small villages. While specific cafes or pubs directly on every route are not guaranteed, many of the towns and villages in Sullivan County offer local eateries where you can stop for refreshments. Planning your route with potential stops in mind is recommended.

The routes in this guide vary in length and duration. For example, the Rondout Reservoir – Time And The Valleys Museum loop from Loch Sheldrake is approximately 40.7 miles (65.4 km) and takes about 3 hours 14 minutes. The Hanging Rock Falls – Rondout Reservoir loop from Loch Sheldrake is longer at 75.3 km, typically taking over 3.5 hours. Routes generally range from 38 to 47 miles (61 to 75 km) and take between 3 to 4 hours to complete.