The best gravel rides around Village of Hastings-on-Hudson

The region offers a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find historic pathways like the Old Croton Aqueduct Trailway with unpaved sections, alongside the mostly paved South County Trailway. Routes often combine pavement, hard-pack dirt, double-track, and sometimes more challenging, washed-out mountain roads, providing a variety of surfaces for gravel biking. Expect rolling hills and scenic river views, with options ranging from relatively flat sections to challenging climbs.

Yes, while some routes offer challenging climbs, the area also provides options suitable for beginners. The Old Croton Aqueduct Trailway, for instance, is known for being relatively flat in many sections, making it a good starting point. You can find several moderate routes, such as the Piermont Railway Station (historic) – Old Erie Rail Trail (gravel) loop from Tappan, which is about 19 miles long and leads through varied landscapes.

Many routes offer stunning views of the Hudson River and the Palisades. Along your ride, you might encounter historical sites like the Old Croton Aqueduct itself. For specific natural attractions, consider visiting Peanut Leap Cascade, a beautiful waterfall, or enjoy panoramic views from Point Lookout and Alpine Lookout. The area also features several lakes, including Tarrytown Reservoir and Woodlands Lake.

Yes, many of the gravel biking opportunities in the region are designed as loops. For example, the 9W Market – Piermont Railway Station (historic) loop from Harrington Park is a moderate 38-mile route that offers a mix of terrain and passes by historic points of interest. Another option is the New Croton Dam – Old Croton Aqueduct Trail loop from Blauvelt State Park, a more difficult 38-mile trail.

The Old Croton Aqueduct Trailway is generally dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs. Similarly, the South County Trailway also permits dogs on leash. However, it's always recommended to check specific park regulations or trail signage for any localized restrictions before heading out with your pet.

The region is enjoyable for gravel biking across multiple seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, making them ideal. Summer can be warm, but shaded sections of trails like the Old Croton Aqueduct provide relief. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice on trails, especially on unpaved sections.

Generally, you do not need a specific permit for gravel biking on public trails like the Old Croton Aqueduct Trailway or the South County Trailway in Westchester County. These trails are managed by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and are open for public use. However, it's always a good practice to check the official websites of specific parks or trail systems for any updated regulations or special event requirements.

Parking is available at various access points along the major trailways. For the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail, you can often find parking in the Rivertowns it passes through, including Hastings-on-Hudson. Specific local parks and trailheads, such as those near MacEachron Waterfront Park or Hillside Woods, may offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check local village or park websites for detailed parking information and any potential fees.

Yes, Hastings-on-Hudson is accessible by public transport, which can help you reach the trails. The Metro-North Railroad's Hudson Line serves Hastings-on-Hudson, making it possible to travel from New York City and other points along the Hudson River. The train station is located near the waterfront, providing relatively easy access to local trails and connecting pathways.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the combination of historic aqueduct trails, riverfront paths with stunning views of the Hudson and Palisades, and the interconnected rail-trails that offer diverse terrain. The variety of routes, catering to different ability levels, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are several difficult routes. The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail – Old Croton Dam Road Bridge loop from Irvington is a 39-mile difficult route that follows a historic aqueduct with varied surfaces and scenic overlooks. Another demanding option is the New Croton Dam – Old Croton Aqueduct Trail loop from Blauvelt State Park, which features significant elevation changes.

Yes, the Old Croton Aqueduct Trailway is particularly well-suited for families due to its relatively flat and non-motorized nature, offering a peaceful experience. The South County Trailway, while mostly paved, also provides a safe and scenic environment for family rides. These trails offer accessible sections that are great for riders of all ages and skill levels.