The best cycling routes around Ridgewood
4.5
(34)
268
riders
56
rides
Touring cycling around Ridgewood offers diverse landscapes, from well-maintained paved pathways to routes leading towards the Ramapo Mountains. The region features multi-use trails along the Saddle River, providing scenic views and connections through various parks. Cyclists can find routes with significant elevation gain in the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains, as well as more leisurely rides around local ponds and reservoirs.
Best touring cycling routes around Ridgewood
- The most popular touring cycling route is Saddle River – Saddle River Pathway loop from Ridgewood High School, an 11.6 miles (18.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 16 minutes to complete. This easy route follows the multi-use, motor-vehicle-free paved Saddle River Pathway.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Wild Duck Pond – Ridgewood loop from Radburn, a moderate 25.8 miles (41.6 km) path. This route features varied terrain and includes views of the Wild Duck Pond.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Wild Duck Pond loop from Paramus, a 5.7 miles (9.1 km) trail leading through areas near the Wild Duck Pond, often completed in about 32 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Ridgewood is defined by river paths, park connectors, and the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy, paved trails to more challenging routes with elevation gain.
- The routes in Ridgewood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 600 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Ridgewood's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
3.5
(2)
2
riders
54.2km
03:23
190m
190m
Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure with the Saddle River and Oradell Reservoir Loop, covering 33.7 miles (54.2 km) and gaining 630 feet (192 metres) of elevation. This route offers a pleasant mix of flat, paved paths along the Saddle River Pathway and more varied terrain as you approach the picturesque Oradell Reservoir. You will cycle through wooded and open areas, enjoying serene riverside views and the chance to spot local wildlife, all while completing the loop in about 3 hours and 22 minutes.
When planning your ride, be aware that e-bikes are not permitted on the Saddle River County Park Bike Path, and a speed limit of 10 mph is enforced for all cyclists. While the route is mostly paved, some sections around the Oradell Reservoir include slight inclines and descents, so be prepared for some gentle climbs. You will find parking readily available at various points along the Saddle River County Park sections, making access convenient.
This touring cycling route stands out by connecting the well-known Saddle River Park bike trails with the scenic surroundings of the Oradell Reservoir, offering a diverse experience within Bergen County. You will enjoy the natural backdrop of lush forests around the reservoir, even though direct shoreline access is limited. It is an excellent option if you are looking for a longer ride that combines natural beauty with accessible cycling infrastructure.
5.0
(2)
6
riders
58.8km
03:42
390m
390m
Embark on the Rockland Lake State Park Loop, a moderate touring cycling route spanning 36.5 miles (58.8 km). You will gain 1276 feet (389 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 42 minutes, offering a substantial ride. As you cycle, you'll experience diverse scenery, from the tranquil waters of Rockland Lake to expansive views stretching towards Hook Mountain, providing a comprehensive exploration of the area.
Planning your visit is straightforward, though be aware that Rockland Lake State Park can become very busy, especially on warm summer weekends and holidays. The park may even reach capacity during peak times. Ample parking is available, but a fee might be charged during these busy periods. You will find convenient amenities like restrooms and picnic areas, making it easy to spend a longer day out on the route.
This route connects you to a larger network of trails, allowing you to encounter varied topography and natural features beyond just the lake shore. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including swans and falcons, as the park is recognized as a designated Bird Conservation Area. While the core loop around the lake is flat and paved, this full touring bicycle route incorporates more challenging sections to keep your ride engaging.
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4.7
(3)
21
riders
41.6km
02:28
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
9.13km
00:32
10m
10m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
12
riders
27.3km
01:47
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Many people enjoy coming here for a peaceful break. You might see families having picnics by the water or people simply sitting on benches, enjoying the quiet. The pond and the pathway are good for seeing local wildlife. Besides ducks, you might spot turtles sunning themselves or different kinds of birds flying overhead.
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The Oradell Reservoir is an important source of clean drinking water to around 750,000 people. Built up over the early 1900s and completed in 1923, it’s now protected as a Category 1 water source, meaning it’s some of the purest in the state. It is a critical part of the region’s infrastructure and a reminder of how closely nature and community are connected.
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The Saddle River County Park Path stretches from Duck Pond to Rochelle Park, traversing several parks along the Saddle River. Along the way, there are numerous spots to pause and relish the river view, with some areas even allowing you to dip your feet in the water.
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They constructed Wild Duck Pond around 1927 as a man-made feature. Previously, they would flood this area to create a winter ice skating rink. It's now a lovely park area where you can take a break and unwind by the water.
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The majority of the river courses through popular suburban areas. It earns its name from a river in Scotland near Saddell. This section of the river winds its way through several parks, offering a delightful view of the flowing waters from this point.
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The Glen Rock Duck Pond section of the Saddle River Pathway is a small section of trail with accompanying park amenities. There is a decent amount of parking here, too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ridgewood?
There are over 50 touring cycling routes around Ridgewood, offering a wide variety of experiences for cyclists of all levels. You'll find everything from easy, paved paths to more challenging rides with significant elevation gain.
What kind of terrain and difficulty levels can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ridgewood?
Ridgewood's touring cycling routes offer diverse terrain. You'll find many easy, paved multi-use trails, particularly along the Saddle River. For those seeking more challenge, routes extend into the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains, featuring varied terrain and significant elevation changes. Overall, there are 13 easy, 33 moderate, and 12 difficult routes available.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in the Ridgewood area?
Yes, the region is excellent for family cycling. The Saddle River – Saddle River Pathway loop from Ridgewood High School is an easy, motor-vehicle-free paved trail, perfect for all ages. The Saddle River County Park, which this pathway traverses, is known for its relaxing, scenic rides.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes offer scenic views of natural features. You can cycle past the Wild Duck Pond, the Oradell Reservoir, and the Saddle River. The Saddle River County Park also features the Historic Easton Tower and a waterfall. For broader views, some routes offer glimpses of the Ramapo Mountains.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Ridgewood?
Yes, many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Wild Duck Pond – Ridgewood loop from Radburn is a popular moderate circular route that offers varied terrain and scenic views.
Where can I park my car to access touring cycling routes in Ridgewood?
Parking is generally available at various access points for the larger park systems. For instance, the Saddle River Pathway, a key cycling artery, has multiple access points with parking, including near the Wild Duck Pond and other sections of Saddle River County Park. Specific route descriptions on komoot often provide details on starting points and parking.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ridgewood?
The touring cycling routes in Ridgewood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained, multi-use pathways, the scenic river views, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels, from leisurely rides to more challenging mountain foothills experiences.
Are there any routes that offer views of the Oradell Reservoir?
Yes, the Oradell Reservoir is a significant natural feature in the region, and there are popular road cycling routes, such as the Oradell Reservoir Loop, that offer scenic views of this important water source. While not explicitly listed in the top routes, many local rides will pass by or near it.
Can I find routes that connect different parks or green spaces?
Absolutely. The region is characterized by interconnected park systems. The Saddle River Pathway, for instance, spans multiple towns and connects various sections of Saddle River County Park, allowing cyclists to embark on extended rides through different green spaces without encountering heavy vehicular traffic. You can also access Grove Park from the Saddle River Bergen County Park trail.
What is a good easy touring cycling route for beginners in Ridgewood?
A great option for beginners is the Wild Duck Pond loop from Paramus. This easy 5.7-mile (9.1 km) trail leads through areas near the Wild Duck Pond and is often completed in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for a relaxed ride.
Are there any touring cycling routes that offer a bit more challenge or elevation gain?
For a more challenging experience, consider routes that venture towards the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains. While specific routes are not detailed here, these areas are known for significant elevation gain and varied terrain, providing an exhilarating experience for more experienced riders looking for a workout.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ridgewood?
The best time to go touring cycling in Ridgewood is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. The region's diverse landscapes, from river paths to mountain foothills, offer beautiful views as the seasons change.
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