The best cycling routes in Storm King State Park

The Sunken Mine Road – Indian Brook Road gravel loop from Garrison is a demanding touring cycling route that plunges you into the wild beauty of the Hudson Highlands. You'll traverse extensive mixed deciduous forests, rocky bluffs, and old farmlands marked by stone walls, with glimpses of the Hudson River. Expect a mix of surfaces, from paved to rough dirt and single-track, especially through Fahnestock State Park where you'll find the deep Canopus Creek ravine and tranquil John Allen Pond.

This difficult 35.6-mile (57.3 km) loop, with its 3167 feet (965 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes. Sunken Mine Road is closed to cars from December to April, which means it's unmaintained and can be snow-covered, so plan your visit accordingly. Recent storms have also left some sections with washouts and potholes, requiring extra vigilance and advanced riding skills.

Beyond the physical challenge, this route offers a rich historical context, passing sites of old iron mines and Revolutionary War field hospitals. It's a true "hike on a bike" experience, perfect for those seeking a rugged adventure and a deep immersion in nature, far from typical paved roads. The seasonal car closure on Sunken Mine Road provides a uniquely quiet atmosphere for much of the year.

The Highland Falls loop from Highland Falls offers a refreshing touring cycling experience, winding through dramatic highlands and extensive forests. You'll encounter varied terrain and elevation changes, with inspiring Hudson River views appearing at elevated points, particularly as you gain altitude. This moderate 10.9-mile (17.5 km) route, with its 494 feet (150 metres) of elevation gain, is a great choice for cyclists looking for a scenic and engaging ride that can be completed in about 1 hour and 8 minutes.

Planning your visit to this Highland Falls cycling route is straightforward, as the quaint village of Highland Falls serves as a natural starting point. While specific parking information for this exact loop isn't detailed, you'll find options within the village. Consider the best time to cycle Highland Falls based on weather preferences; spring and fall often provide ideal conditions for exploring the area's natural features along Highland Falls cycling loop.

This route is part of a network of Highland Falls cycling routes highly rated by the Komoot community, known for combining natural beauty with diverse terrain. Beyond the ride, the village itself boasts a rich history and is close to the United States Military Academy at West Point, offering additional points of interest for visitors.

Embark on a challenging touring cycling adventure that centers around the iconic Perkins Memorial Tower climb, offering some of the most rewarding scenic viewpoints in the Hudson Highlands. The ascent to the Tower is on well-maintained paved roads, providing stunning panoramic views of the Hudson River, Bear Mountain Bridge, and distant landmarks like the Manhattan skyline. While the full "Perkins Memorial Tower – The Torne loop from Beacon" name suggests a cohesive route, be prepared to adapt, as the "Torne" and "Beacon" sections typically refer to technical mountain biking trails unsuitable for touring bikes.

This difficult route spans 55.3 miles (89.0 km) and involves a significant 4098 feet (1249 metres) of elevation gain, requiring approximately 5 hours and 56 minutes to complete. The climb to Perkins Memorial Tower features a consistent grade, demanding good fitness but rewarding you with breathtaking vistas. Consider visiting in the off-season when Perkins Memorial Drive may be closed to cars, offering a more serene experience, though the paved surface is generally excellent year-round. Always carry sufficient water and nutrition for this demanding ride.

The Perkins Memorial Tower climb is a popular destination for road cyclists, known for its challenging yet manageable ascent and the spectacular views from the summit. It's a key feature in many regional cycling routes and even part of events like the Gran Fondo New York. This route is ideal for advanced cyclists looking for a substantial workout combined with unparalleled natural beauty, making it one of the best touring cycling routes near Beacon, NY, if you focus on the paved sections.