The best gravel rides around Old Tappan

There are over 15 gravel bike trails available around Old Tappan, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These include routes ranging from moderate to difficult, with several options suitable for beginners.

Yes, Old Tappan offers several beginner-friendly gravel routes. The rail trails in the vicinity, such as sections of the Old Erie Rail Trail, are generally flatter and provide a good starting point for those new to gravel biking. For example, the Piermont Railway Station (historic) – Old Erie Rail Trail (gravel) loop from Tappan is a moderate option that specifically features gravel sections of the Old Erie Rail Trail.

Gravel biking around Old Tappan offers a diverse mix of terrain. You can expect dedicated gravel sections on rail trails, wooded paths, and routes with views of water bodies like the Oradell Reservoir and Lake Tappan. The region features a blend of relatively flat paths and more undulating routes, especially in areas closer to the 'Little Mountains' or Ramapo Mountain State Forest.

Yes, for experienced riders looking for longer distances, there are several options. The 9W Market – Piermont Railway Station (historic) loop from Harrington Park is a moderate 37.9 miles (61.2 km) path that offers a longer ride through varied terrain. Another challenging option is the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail – Old Croton Dam Road Bridge loop from Irvington, which is a difficult 39-mile (62.9 km) route with significant elevation changes.

Many gravel routes in the area offer scenic views and pass by significant natural features. You can expect to see the Oradell Reservoir and Lake Tappan, which are important water bodies with recreational opportunities. Some trails also offer viewpoints like Point Lookout and Alpine Lookout, providing expansive vistas. The Peanut Leap Cascade is another natural monument you might encounter.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Old Tappan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Piermont Railway Station (historic) – Old Erie Rail Trail (gravel) loop from Tappan and the 9W Market – Piermont Railway Station (historic) loop from Oradell, which takes you through areas near the Oradell Reservoir.

The gravel biking experience around Old Tappan is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse natural landscapes, the tranquility of the suburban areas, and the variety of terrain, from dedicated rail trail gravel sections to more challenging routes with reservoir views and wooded paths.

Yes, some routes pass by or are near places where you can stop for refreshments. For instance, the 9W Market is a notable cafe that features in the names of several popular loops, such as the 9W Market – Piermont Railway Station (historic) loop from Harrington Park, making it a convenient stop.

Old Tappan offers enjoyable gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer can be warm, but shaded sections of trails offer relief. Winter biking is possible, but riders should be prepared for colder temperatures and potential icy or muddy conditions, especially on unpaved sections.

For families, the flatter sections of rail trails are generally the most suitable. These paths often provide a safer and less strenuous environment for younger riders. While specific family-designated gravel routes aren't highlighted, seeking out the easier, less technical sections of trails like the Old Erie Rail Trail would be a good starting point.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many rail trail access points and local parks in the surrounding towns, such as Tappan, New York, or Harrington Park, offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for parking information related to your chosen starting point.

While Old Tappan itself is inland, some routes in the broader area, particularly those extending towards the east, can offer glimpses or direct access to the Hudson River. The Hudson River Drive is a cycleway in the vicinity that provides scenic views of the river, and some gravel routes may connect to or run parallel to it.