The best road cycling routes around Highlands
4.6
(14)
808
riders
38
rides
Road cycling routes around Highlands are characterized by coastal roads, riverine paths, and gently rolling terrain. The region features routes that often follow the shoreline, offering views of the Atlantic and local waterways. Cyclists can expect a mix of flat sections and moderate ascents, with routes connecting coastal towns and more inland areas. The landscape is defined by its proximity to the ocean, with routes often crossing bridges and passing by beaches.
Best road cycling routes around Highlands
- The most…
Last updated: July 21, 2026
5.0
(1)
79
riders
91.0km
03:51
410m
410m
Embark on the Atlantic Highlands to Farmingdale loop, a moderate racebike route spanning 56.5 miles (91.0 km) with 1344 feet (410 metres) of elevation gain. This journey, typically completed in…
5.0
(1)
12
riders
56.9km
02:15
130m
130m
The Shore Tour North offers a delightful road cycling experience through Monmouth County, New Jersey, showcasing a mix of tranquil waterside views and vibrant coastal communities. You'll pedal past the…
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5.0
(1)
79
riders
40.6km
01:51
290m
300m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
25
riders
13.3km
00:32
10m
10m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
14.0km
00:33
30m
30m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Enjoy an incredible ride in nature past Swimming River Reservoir. Views are particularly beautiful during the autumn months!
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Can get there by foot or by bicycle or by car. This is one of the launch sites for the Nike missiles that were installed in the Cold War days for the last chance defense mechanism against an airborne attack.
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Super awesome bike shop. It was originally the post office back in the 50’s or 60’s (?)… now is a locally owned bike shop with some of Lance Armstrong’s old TDF bikes on display. Great people, awesome atmosphere. They have all sorts of stuff there and good mechanics as well.
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Go early in the morning to have the sunrise behind the old officers houses and the lighthouse in your background. Or go in the evening to stand with the officers houses at your back and watch the sunset over the hills of Highlands, Atlantic Highlands and the Raritan Bay… catch it at the right time of the year and you can watch the sunset looking one way and the moonrise looking the other way :)
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With views of the reservoir on both sides of the road, this stretch is great fun to cycle on with nature all around. It is especially pretty when the trees turn in autumn.
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Beach D is part of the sequence of beaches in Gateway Area, sitting along the path that runs along the coast. The nice sandy beach offers some facilities, like a grocery store and public toilets. The Park is the gateway from the ocean into New York Harbor, offering green spaces, historic structures, and cultural landscapes alongside the beaches.
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Beach C sits in the Gateway National Recreation Area on a narrow peninsula with a long sand bank. It’s at a point where the peninsula is very narrow, so you can have easy access to the beach and to the Shrewsbury River.
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Beach D is part of the sequence of beaches in Gateway Area, sitting along the path that runs along the coast. The nice sandy beach offers some facilities, like a grocery store and public toilets. The Park is the gateway from the ocean into New York Harbor, offering green spaces historic structures, and cultural landscapes alongside the beaches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in the Highlands?
There are over 45 road cycling routes available in the Highlands, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You can find routes ranging from easy loops to more challenging endurance rides.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in the Highlands?
Yes, the Highlands offer several routes suitable for beginners. There are 11 easy routes, such as the Shrewsbury River Bridge – Beach D loop from Highlands, which is 14.9 miles (23.9 km) long and takes about 1 hour 4 minutes to complete. Another option is the Bike Lane at Hartshorne Drive – Sandy Hook Lighthouse loop from Highlands, an easy 41.5 km route.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in the Highlands?
Road cycling routes in the Highlands are characterized by coastal roads, riverine paths, and gently rolling terrain. You'll often find routes following the shoreline, offering views of the Atlantic and local waterways, with a mix of flat sections and moderate ascents.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in the Highlands?
The Highlands are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 15 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic coastal paths, river routes, and the varied terrain that caters to different ability levels.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes in the Highlands?
While there are no routes classified as 'difficult' in the provided data, many of the 34 moderate routes offer a good challenge. For example, the Atlantic Highlands to Farmingdale loop is a 56.5-mile (91.0 km) route with over 400 meters of elevation gain, providing a substantial endurance ride.
What are some scenic road cycling routes with viewpoints in the Highlands?
Many routes in the Highlands offer scenic views, particularly those along the coast. The Shore Tour North provides a scenic ride along the northern shore. Routes often pass by beaches and offer expansive views of the ocean and local waterways.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in the Highlands?
Yes, many of the routes in the Highlands are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Atlantic Highlands to Farmingdale loop and the Shrewsbury River Bridge – Beach D loop from Highlands.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the road cycling routes?
Along the road cycling routes in the Highlands, you can encounter several interesting landmarks. These include the historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse, the vibrant area of Atlantic Highlands, and the scenic Shrewsbury River Bridge. Many routes also pass through areas like the Bike Lane at Hartshorne Drive.
Are there longer road cycling routes for multi-hour adventures?
Absolutely. For longer rides, consider routes like the Atlantic Highlands to Farmingdale loop, which is 56.5 miles (91.0 km) and takes nearly 4 hours. Another option is the Shrewsbury River Bridge – Navesink Beach loop from Highlands, a 66.6 km route with over 340 meters of elevation gain.
What is the best season for road cycling in the Highlands?
The Scottish Highlands generally offer the most favorable cycling conditions from late spring through early autumn (May to September). During these months, you can expect milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and generally more stable weather, making for a more enjoyable experience on the region's dramatic landscapes.
Are there any routes that connect coastal towns with inland areas?
Yes, routes like the Atlantic Highlands to Farmingdale loop are designed to connect coastal areas with more inland farming regions, offering a diverse cycling experience that showcases different aspects of the local landscape.
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