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Hudson County

East Newark

The best cycling routes around East Newark

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 31, 2026

If you’ve ever tried to plan touring cycling around East Newark, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many routes available, it’s hard to tell which ones are truly worth your legs and which are just filler. We get it, and that’s exactly why we’re here: komoot’s community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, giving you a curated shortlist of the best touring cycling in East Newark. We’ve done the groundwork so you don’t have to guess.

Touring cycling around East Newark offers a unique blend of urban green spaces and riverfront paths, connecting you to a wider network of parks. You’ll find everything from flat, easy sections along the Passaic River to moderate elevation changes as you venture into connecting areas. The landscape is varied, providing both paved paths and road cycling opportunities. While East Newark is accessible year-round, the spring and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions for exploring.

If you only do one ride, make it the Orange Reservoir – Brookside Drive loop from Mountain Station. This moderate 14.6 miles (23.5 km) route is a local favorite, offering a scenic loop around the reservoir that’s perfect for a rewarding afternoon. For those seeking a bigger challenge, the Diamond Mill Pond – Crater View loop from Mountain Station is a difficult 41.2 miles (66.3 km) path with varied terrain and a demanding ascent that truly earns its views. With more than 180 touring cyclists having explored these routes with komoot, you’re in good company. Start planning your next adventure today!

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Orange Reservoir – Brookside Drive loop from Mountain Station
  2. 2

    Diamond Mill Pond – Crater View loop from Mountain Station
  3. 3

    Cedar Grove Reservoir – Christ Church Montclair loop from Nutley

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Orange Reservoir – Brookside Drive loop from Mountain Station

23.5 km

250 m

Moderate

Diamond Mill Pond – Crater View loop from Mountain Station

66.3 km

610 m

Hard

Cedar Grove Reservoir – Christ Church Montclair loop from Nutley

44.2 km

460 m

Hard

Christ Church Montclair – Rockaway River loop from Walnut Street

76.1 km

690 m

Hard

Cedar Grove Reservoir – Verona Lake loop from Walnut Street

26.7 km

370 m

Moderate

The Glen Gazebo – Christ Church Montclair loop from Orange

32.6 km

240 m

Moderate

Verona Park – Verona Park loop from Highland Avenue

48.4 km

340 m

Moderate

Glenfield Park – Verona Park loop from East Orange

53.8 km

450 m

Hard

Presby Iris Memorial Garden – Christ Church Montclair loop from Montclair

13.5 km

70 m

Easy

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1.

Orange Reservoir – Brookside Drive loop from Mountain Station

23.5km

01:31

250m

250m

The Orange Reservoir – Brookside Drive loop from Mountain Station offers a pleasant touring cycling experience, blending the tranquil, flat paths around the Orange Reservoir with the rolling hills of Brookside Drive. You'll cycle past scenic water views, where you might spot ducks, geese, or even bald eagles, before heading into the natural setting of the South Mountain Reservation. This moderate 14.6-mile (23.5 km) route, with 819 feet (249 metres) of elevation gain, provides a varied ride that feels like a true escape, taking about 1 hours and 30 minutes to complete.

To make the most of your ride, consider heading out on a Sunday morning when Brookside Drive transforms into a car-free haven, significantly enhancing safety and enjoyment for cyclists. The Orange Reservoir area is well-equipped with public restrooms and benches, making it a convenient spot to begin your journey. While specific parking at Mountain Station isn't detailed, the overall accessibility of the area makes it a popular choice for local riders.

This route stands out for its flexibility, allowing you to combine the easy, flat reservoir loop with the more dynamic terrain of Brookside Drive. The South Mountain Reservation offers a rich natural environment, and the car-free Sundays on Brookside Drive are a major draw, providing a relaxed touring experience that's hard to beat in the region. It's a great option for those looking for a family-friendly cycling route with a bit of elevation.

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2.

Diamond Mill Pond – Crater View loop from Mountain Station

66.3km

04:06

610m

610m

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Tips from the Community

Me
November 5, 2025, Crater View

Closed dusk till dawn. Nice low traffic stretch along the ridge line with many nice spots to stop and take in the views, though they are a bit obstructed by the tree line. Its particularly fantastic in autumn. A rewarding mostly flat segment to enjoy the fruits of the climb even if you don't stop.

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The Orange Reservoir is a 62-acre man‑made lake that was originally part of the Rahway River watershed and used to provided drinking water to the nearby towns. No longer a water source, it is not a popular outdoor recreation area.

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mtm05005
June 26, 2025, Verona Park

Verona Park is a 55-acre park that is part of the Essex County park system. There are several trails that run through the park, including the Lenape Trail. The park also has a lake, playground, picnic areas and a restroom.

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Presby Iris Memorial Garden is a vibrant and colorful space filled with dozens of iris varieties blooming in spring and summer. Enjoy riding or walking through to appreciate the beautiful flowers.

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Tunney’s Brook runs through this small park called The Glen, with gazebos, benches, and grassy areas along the water. It’s a pleasant place to pass by or take a short break.

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Montclair is a quiet neighborhood that offers a refreshing break from the urban buzz of Newark. Tree-lined streets, historic homes, and small parks make it a great place for a ride, with plenty of cafés and local spots to explore. A perfect detour if you’re looking for charm and calmer roads.

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Ethan & the Bean is a cozy stop in Little Falls known for great coffee and a welcoming vibe. It’s more than a café, it’s a nonprofit that creates jobs for people with disabilities. A good place to refuel, relax, and support a meaningful mission.

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People naturally gathered here to watch and grieve the events of September 11, 2001, so it only makes sense that an evocative memorial to that event was erected here. There are also 400 acres of woodlands to one side of you — when you face them, it almost feels like you could look out over the trees forever.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around East Newark?

There are over 15 touring cycling routes available around East Newark, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes connect various urban green spaces, riverfront paths, and larger park systems in the region.

What is the overall difficulty level of touring cycling routes in East Newark?

The touring cycling routes in East Newark cater to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with 4 easy routes, 11 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes, ensuring options for both casual riders and experienced cyclists seeking a challenge.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the East Newark area?

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around East Newark are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Orange Reservoir – Brookside Drive loop from Mountain Station, which offers a scenic ride around the reservoir area. Another challenging loop is the Diamond Mill Pond – Crater View loop from Mountain Station.

What natural features or landmarks can I see while touring cycling near East Newark?

East Newark's touring routes often feature the developing waterfront along the Passaic River. You can also connect to significant green spaces like Branch Brook Park, known for its cherry blossoms, and Weequahic Park with its 80-acre lake. The Cedar Grove Reservoir – Christ Church Montclair loop from Nutley, for example, takes you past the Cedar Grove Reservoir and the historic Christ Church Montclair.

Are there any specific viewpoints along the touring cycling routes?

While specific viewpoints directly on all routes are not highlighted, the region offers scenic spots. For instance, the Eagle Rock viewpoint is a notable point of interest in the wider area, offering panoramic views. Additionally, the East Newark Waterfront Park provides lookout points along the Passaic River.

Is public transport accessible for reaching touring cycling routes in East Newark?

East Newark benefits from its proximity to the greater Newark area, which has a robust public transport network. Cyclists can often use local train or bus services to get closer to starting points for routes, especially those connecting to major parks like Branch Brook Park or Weequahic Park.

Where can I park my car when starting a touring cycling route?

Parking availability varies by route starting point. For routes originating from areas like Mountain Station or Nutley, there are typically local parking options. For routes connecting to larger parks such as Branch Brook Park or Weequahic Park, dedicated parking lots are usually available. It's advisable to check specific starting points for detailed parking information.

What is the best time of year for touring cycling in East Newark?

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in East Newark, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Spring is particularly popular for viewing the cherry blossoms in Branch Brook Park. Summer can be warm, but early mornings or late afternoons are still enjoyable. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder temperatures.

Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in East Newark?

Yes, East Newark and its surrounding areas offer several family-friendly options. Routes that utilize the paved paths within parks like Branch Brook Park or Newark Riverfront Park are generally flatter and safer for families. The East Newark Waterfront Park also provides accessible walking and cycling paths suitable for all ages.

Are there any advanced touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, East Newark offers several difficult routes. The Rockaway River – Montville loop from Walnut Street is a demanding 44.7-mile route with significant elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Diamond Mill Pond – Crater View loop from Mountain Station, which features varied terrain and a notable ascent.

Can I find cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the touring cycling routes?

Many touring cycling routes in the East Newark area pass through or near suburban centers and urban parks where cafes, restaurants, and convenience stores are readily available. Routes connecting to towns like Montclair or Nutley, or those passing through the larger Newark park system, will offer opportunities for refreshments and breaks.

What do other cyclists think about the touring routes in East Newark?

The touring cycling routes in East Newark are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the accessibility to urban green spaces, and the scenic riverfront paths that offer a refreshing escape within the metropolitan area.

Is it possible to see wildlife on the touring cycling routes?

While East Newark is an urban area, the numerous parks and riverfront paths provide opportunities for wildlife spotting. Along the Passaic River and within parks like Branch Brook Park and Weequahic Park, you might encounter various bird species, waterfowl, and small mammals, especially during quieter times of the day.

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