The best road cycling routes around Greene

Greene County offers a selection of 11 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, from the challenging Catskill Mountains to the serene Hudson River Valley.

Road cycling in Greene County provides a rich variety of terrain. You'll encounter dramatic mountain scenery and significant elevation changes in the western Catskills, contrasting with flatter sections and scenic river views along the Hudson River Valley to the east. The region features a mix of rolling hills, river valleys, and forested areas, often including deeply scored 'cloves' (rocky glens) for spectacular views.

Yes, Greene County has routes suitable for beginners and families looking for an easier ride. For instance, the Washington Secondary Rail Trail is an easy 20.3-mile (32.6 km) route that offers a gentle ride through the local countryside, taking approximately 1 hour 23 minutes to complete.

Many of the road cycling routes in Greene are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the moderate Beaudoin Conservation Area Ledge Road to Sawmill Hill Road Pond No 2 loop, which is 30.3 miles (48.7 km), and the Gortons Corner to Tillinghast Pond loop, a 19.5-mile (31.4 km) route.

Greene County's routes offer scenic views and access to natural attractions. You might pass by beautiful bodies of water like Breakheart Pond or Tillinghast Pond. Some routes also lead near waterfalls such as Stepstone Falls or Ponaganset Falls, providing opportunities for picturesque stops.

The road cycling routes in Greene are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging mountain ascents to scenic river views, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels.

While there are no routes explicitly graded as 'difficult' in our current selection, many of the moderate routes offer significant elevation gain and longer distances, providing a good challenge for experienced riders. For example, the Sterling to Tillinghast Pond loop via Waterman Hill Conservation Area is a moderate 33.4-mile (53.8 km) route with over 570 meters of elevation gain, taking approximately 2 hours 40 minutes.

The best time for road cycling in Greene County is typically from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains and Hudson River Valley is at its peak, with lush greenery in spring/summer and vibrant foliage in autumn. Winter cycling can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially in higher elevations.

While specific parking details for each trailhead are best checked on individual route pages, many routes in Greene County start near towns or conservation areas that typically offer designated parking. It's advisable to review the route details on komoot for the most accurate parking information before your ride.

Absolutely. Greene County is known for its dense forests and natural landscapes. Routes like the Beaudoin Conservation Area Ledge Road to Sawmill Hill Road Pond No 2 loop navigate through varied landscapes, including extensive forested areas and open spaces, providing a truly immersive natural experience.

For those seeking longer rides, Greene County offers several routes over 30 miles. The Sterling to Tillinghast Pond loop via Waterman Hill Conservation Area, at 33.4 miles (53.8 km), and the George B Parker Woodland to Scituate Reservoir Protection Area loop, at 25.8 miles (41.5 km), are excellent options for endurance training, offering significant distances and elevation changes.