Cross River reservoir dam – Cross River Reservoir loop from Mianus River Gorge Preserve
Cross River reservoir dam – Cross River Reservoir loop from Mianus River Gorge Preserve
4.8
(3713)
13,656
riders
Cross River reservoir dam – Cross River Reservoir loop from Mianus River Gorge Preserve
03:38
51.0km
700m
Gravel riding
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
469 m
Mianus River Gorge Preserve
Highlight • Gorge
Tip by
879 m
Mianus River Gorge
Highlight • Gorge
Tip by
3.81 km
Bedford Village Historic District
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
29.9 km
Cross River Outlet Unit
Nature Reserve
31.0 km
Cross River reservoir dam
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
38.2 km
Cross River Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
38.3 km
Old Post Road bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
41.0 km
Pea Pond
Lake
45.4 km
The Bedford Oak
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
51.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
25.5 km
22.3 km
2.24 km
667 m
177 m
101 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
24.2 km
19.4 km
4.03 km
2.13 km
1.28 km
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Elevation
Highest point (190 m)
Lowest point (60 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 27 June
26°C
18°C
23 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a truly challenging and scenic gravel biking experience in Westchester County, the Cross River reservoir dam – Cross River Reservoir loop from Mianus River Gorge Preserve is definitely worth your time. This difficult 31.7-mile (51.0 km) route packs in 2312 feet (705 metres) of climbing, taking around 3 hours and 38 minutes to complete. It's a premier choice for advanced riders with very good fitness who want to tackle some of the best gravel bike trails Westchester NY has to offer.
What to expect on Cross River reservoir dam – Cross River Reservoir loop from Mianus River Gorge Preserve
This route delivers a dynamic journey through varied terrain and stunning natural beauty. You'll navigate a blend of gravel and paved surfaces, with some sections of hardpack gravel and others featuring considerably rougher patches, including "baby head sized rocks" that might even require you to push your bike. The highlight is undoubtedly the picturesque scenery around the Cross River Reservoir, a freshwater lake set in a gorgeous forest. Riding past it, especially from the Old Post Road Bridge, offers breathtaking vistas of tranquil water and a tree-lined shoreline, particularly vibrant during fall foliage. The route also skirts forested wetlands and areas adjacent to the Mianus River Gorge Preserve, known for its old-growth hemlock forest. This is a hard gravel ride demanding advanced riding skills and significant elevation gains, so come prepared for a workout.
Planning your visit
This gravel biking route starts near the Mianus River Gorge Preserve, but it's crucial to remember that the preserve itself strictly prohibits bicycles on its hiking trails. The route utilizes roads and trails adjacent to the preserve, not through its interior. Parking is typically available near the starting point, but always check local regulations. Given the route's difficulty and length, ensure you carry ample water and nutrition. Fall is an especially beautiful time to ride, with the foliage around the reservoir at its peak.
Trail details
- Distance: 31.7 miles (51.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 2312 feet (705 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 38 minutes
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