The best cycling routes in Sullivan County

Komoot features over 10 touring cycling routes in Sullivan County, offering a variety of experiences from easy to difficult. You'll find a diverse selection to explore the region's natural beauty.

Sullivan County offers a diverse range of cycling terrain. You can expect everything from flat, family-friendly rail trails like the Sullivan O&W Rail Trail, to challenging mountain biking routes with significant elevation changes in areas like the Catskill Mountains. Routes often feature a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, winding through forested areas, along scenic byways, and past picturesque lakes and rivers.

Yes, Sullivan County caters to various skill levels. You'll find easy routes, such as the Bike loop from Point 8, which is ideal for a relaxed ride. There are also moderate options like the Worlds End State Park loop via Mineral Spring Road, and more challenging, difficult routes like the Tamarack Run Natural Area gravel loop — Loyalsock State Forest, which features gravel surfaces and significant climbs.

Absolutely! The region is home to excellent family-friendly options, particularly the rail trails. The Sullivan O&W Rail Trail and the D&H Canal Towpath offer gentle grades and car-free corridors, making them ideal for relaxed cycling with children. These multi-use trails often showcase wetlands and wildlife, providing an enjoyable experience for all ages.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Sullivan County offers routes with considerable elevation changes. The Catskill Mountains provide rolling hills and scenic vistas, and areas like Walnut Mountain Park offer rewarding climbs. For example, the High Knob and Hunters Lake and Eagles Mere Lake loop — Endless Mountains features over 700 meters of elevation gain, making for a demanding ride.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Sullivan County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Loyalsock Canyon loop — Worlds End State Park and the Coal Mine Road gravel loop — Worlds End State Park, providing convenient options for your cycling adventures.

Sullivan County's routes often pass by stunning natural attractions. You can enjoy sweeping views of the Delaware River, cycle around picturesque bodies of water like Hunters Lake, or explore forested areas. Ricketts Glen State Park, though partly in neighboring counties, is known for its 22 waterfalls, including the impressive 94-foot Ganoga Falls. You might also encounter a Loyalsock Creek swim spot or enjoy a Loyalsock Canyon Vista.

Yes, Sullivan County is rich in historic rail trails. The **Sullivan O&W Rail Trail** is a significant draw, offering a 50-mile car-free corridor that connects several hamlets and towns. The D&H Canal Towpath also provides a flat, historic, and family-friendly riverside ride, combining natural beauty with 19th-century canal history. These trails transform former railway lines into scenic routes for cyclists.

The best time for touring cycling in Sullivan County is generally from spring through fall. The weather is milder, and the natural scenery is vibrant. Autumn offers spectacular fall foliage, making it a particularly popular time. While some routes may be accessible in winter, many unpaved sections or higher elevation trails can be challenging due to snow and ice.

Yes, cycling through Sullivan County's forested areas and along its waterways often provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. Areas like the Willowemoc Wild Forest and Loyalsock State Forest are home to various species. Keep an eye out for birds, deer, and other animals, especially during quieter times of the day.

Touring cyclists often praise Sullivan County for its diverse landscapes and the variety of routes available. Many appreciate the peaceful forested areas, the scenic river views along the Delaware, and the well-maintained rail trails. The mix of challenging climbs and leisurely rides means there's something for every preference, making it a highly regarded destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Yes, several state parks offer excellent cycling opportunities. Worlds End State Park features routes like the Worlds End State Park loop via Mineral Spring Road and the Loyalsock Canyon loop — Worlds End State Park. Loyalsock State Forest also provides extensive trails, some suitable for gravel biking, such as the Tamarack Run Natural Area gravel loop.