The best gravel rides around Nyack
4.1
(23)
91
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12
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Gravel biking around Nyack offers a diverse landscape characterized by its position on the Hudson River's west bank. The terrain includes riverside trails, the prominent Hook Mountain rising to 730 feet, and the dramatic Palisades Cliffs. This area features a mix of flat, accessible paths and challenging hilly sections, providing varied experiences for gravel cyclists.
Best gravel bike trails around Nyack
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Old Erie Rail Trail (gravel) – Piermont Railway Station (historic) loop from Village of Nyack, a 21.2 miles (34.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 35 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers scenic views along the historic rail trail.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Old Croton Aqueduct Trail – Old Croton Dam Road Bridge loop from Irvington, a difficult 39.1 miles (62.9 km) path. This route features significant elevation gain and follows a historic aqueduct.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Piermont Railway Station (historic) – Old Erie Rail Trail (gravel) loop from Tappan, a 19.1 miles (30.8 km) trail leading through the Old Erie Rail Trail, often completed in about 2 hours 27 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Nyack is defined by Hudson River views, hilly terrain, and historic rail trails. The network offers options for various ability levels, from moderate riverside paths to more challenging climbs.
- The routes in Nyack are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.8 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 80 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Nyack's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.0
(8)
24
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.9
(10)
16
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The Old Erie Rail Trail (gravel) – Piermont Railway Station (historic) loop from Nyack offers a diverse gravel biking experience, taking you through thick hardwood forests and along cliffs with spectacular views of the Hudson River Valley. You'll encounter varied terrain, from hard-packed dirt and crushed stone to sections of chunky gravel, making it an engaging ride. Keep an eye out for elaborate hillside stairways and decorative archways leading from homes to the trail, adding a unique charm to the journey.
This moderate 21.2-mile (34.1 km) loop, with 698 feet (213 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 7 minutes to complete. Hybrid or mountain bikes are recommended for the rougher surfaces. While the route is generally accessible, be cautious at the 5-way intersection in Sparkill due to blind spots. The trail is particularly scenic in fall and winter when fallen leaves open up wider views of the Piermont pier and the Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge.
Beyond the natural beauty, the route is steeped in history, following the former Erie Railroad corridor. A highlight is the historic Piermont Railway Station, dating back to 1873, which now houses a museum. Nearby plaques detail the historic mile-long pier, a significant embarkation point during World War II. This blend of natural scenery and historical landmarks makes the Old Erie Rail Trail loop a compelling choice for a gravel biking adventure near Nyack.
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11
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
8
riders
61.8km
04:18
670m
670m
The New Croton Dam – New Croton Dam loop from Blauvelt State Park presents a demanding gravel biking experience, weaving through varied terrain from historic aqueduct paths to scenic riverfronts. You'll encounter crushed stone, dirt, and paved sections, with stunning views of the New Croton Dam and Reservoir, but be prepared for significant elevation changes and potentially challenging surfaces. This difficult 38.4 miles (61.8 km) route, with 2189 feet (667 metres) of climbing, is estimated to take around 4 hours and 17 minutes.
Planning your ride requires careful consideration, as Blauvelt State Park's internal trails are primarily designed for mountain biking and are not suitable for typical gravel bikes. To complete this loop, you'll need to plan road sections to connect from Blauvelt State Park to the gravel biking trails around the New Croton Dam. This route demands very good fitness and advanced riding skills, with some segments potentially requiring you to push your bike.
The region is notable for its blend of historic rail trails, like parts of the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail, and diverse landscapes at the confluence of the Hudson and Croton Rivers. The magnificent New Croton Dam provides a picturesque backdrop, making the effort worthwhile for those seeking a challenging ride with a mix of natural beauty and historical landmarks.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
43.5km
02:35
290m
290m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
one of the many great bike paths in New York (State) leads directly north. Paved and mostly through forest, it's great to ride. Super to use for a longer round.
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A great trail, although ride with caution and a sturdy bike
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Great trail and only occasional crossing traffic
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Wonderful gravel path along the Hudson
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This is a beautiful section of the North County Trail that runs between Elmsford to Tarrytown Lakes. At the north end of this section, the trail intersects with Tarrytown Lakes Extension Trail, a paved path with takes you along the banks of Tarrytown Reservoir.
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You can enjoy almost five miles of biking along the river on this pretty, though sometimes narrow, trail. Watch out for other trail users, and please don't try this on skinny bike tires; there are parts where some riders might rather have a mountain bike, or at least a gravel bike.
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Nyack Beach State Park features a flat, two-mile multi-use path along the Hudson River, which is also part of the Hudson River Valley Greenway. The Nyack River Trail offers scenic views with the river on one side and the towering Palisades cliffs on the other. It is open for biking, walking, fishing, and cross-country skiing in the winter. The park is part of a larger network of parks including Rockland Lake, Hook Mountain, and Haverstraw Beach State Parks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Nyack?
Nyack offers a diverse mix of terrain for gravel biking. You'll find scenic riverside trails along the Hudson River, sections of historic rail trails like the Old Erie Rail Trail, and more challenging hilly areas, particularly around Hook Mountain. Some paths are flat and accessible, while others feature significant elevation changes and rocky sections, providing varied experiences for all skill levels.
Are there gravel bike routes suitable for beginners in Nyack?
Yes, Nyack has options for beginners. The southern half of the Hook Mountain/Nyack Beach Bikeway is flat and at sea level, making it accessible for those new to gravel biking. Many sections of the Old Erie Rail Trail are also suitable for less experienced riders, though some parts might be more traditional gravel.
What are some challenging gravel bike routes for experienced riders in Nyack?
Experienced gravel bikers looking for a challenge can explore routes like the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail – Old Croton Dam Road Bridge loop from Irvington. This route is rated difficult, covers nearly 63 km, and features significant elevation gain. The northern part of the Hook Mountain/Nyack Beach Bikeway, also known as the Haverstraw River Trail, is also known for its hilly, narrow, and rocky sections.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the gravel bike trails?
Many gravel routes in Nyack offer stunning views of the Hudson River and the dramatic Palisades Cliffs. You can also encounter features like Hook Mountain, which provides panoramic views, and the peaceful Peanut Leap Cascade. The Hudson River Waterfront Trail at Nyack Beach State Park is a highlight for scenic riverside riding.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in the Nyack area?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. For example, the Piermont Railway Station (historic) – Old Erie Rail Trail (gravel) loop from Tappan is a moderate 30.8 km loop that takes you through the Old Erie Rail Trail. Another option is the Old Erie Rail Trail (gravel) – Piermont Railway Station (historic) loop from Tarrytown, which is a 38.7 km moderate loop.
When is the best time of year for gravel biking in Nyack?
Nyack offers enjoyable gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially with the changing leaves. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter riding is possible, but conditions may vary, with some trails potentially becoming icy or muddy.
Are there family-friendly gravel biking options in Nyack?
Yes, the southern half of the Hook Mountain/Nyack Beach Bikeway is flat and at sea level, making it a great choice for families with children. Sections of the Old Erie Rail Trail are also generally smooth and rideable, suitable for a family outing.
Where can I find parking for gravel bike trails in Nyack?
Parking is typically available at various access points for the trails. For instance, you can often find parking near the Village of Nyack for routes accessing the Old Erie Rail Trail, or at state parks like Hook Mountain State Park or Rockland Lake State Park for the Hook Mountain/Nyack Beach Bikeway.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about gravel biking in Nyack?
The gravel biking routes in Nyack are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning Hudson River views, the diverse terrain that caters to different skill levels, and the unique experience of riding along historic rail trails.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the gravel bike trails?
Yes, Nyack and the surrounding villages offer various options for refreshments. The 9W Market is a popular spot, and you'll find other cafes and pubs in the charming towns along or near the trails, such as in the Village of Nyack or Piermont.
How many gravel bike trails are available around Nyack?
There are over 15 gravel bike trails available around Nyack, offering a wide range of distances and difficulties. This includes routes on historic rail trails, along the Hudson River, and through more challenging hilly terrain.
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