The best cycling routes 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.