The best road cycling routes around Bedford Hills

Road cycling in Bedford Hills is characterized by a diverse landscape of rolling hills and dense woodlands. You'll encounter varied terrain, from challenging climbs that offer significant elevation gain to scenic routes along tranquil waters of the area's many reservoirs. The region's topography provides a good mix for different cycling preferences.

Yes, Bedford Hills offers options for various ability levels, including easy routes. While many routes feature significant elevation, there are 8 easy routes available out of a total of 101. These routes provide a gentler introduction to the area's scenic beauty.

Experienced riders seeking a challenge will find plenty of difficult routes in Bedford Hills. For instance, the View of Browns Reservoir – Grant Road loop from Katonah is a demanding 120.6 km route with over 1300 meters of elevation gain. Another difficult option is the Titicus Reservoir North Side – View of Saugatuck Reservoir loop from Katonah, spanning 96.9 km with over 1000 meters of climbing. The Titicus Reservoir South Side – Titicus Reservoir North Side loop from Katonah is even longer at 137.2 km with over 1600 meters of elevation.

Absolutely. The Bedford Hills area is rich in natural beauty and offers numerous scenic viewpoints. Many routes provide stunning views of the region's reservoirs, such as the Cross River Reservoir, Titicus Reservoir, and Croton Reservoir. The distinctive Red Bridge over the Croton Reservoir is a notable stop, and the Cross River Reservoir is particularly beautiful, especially when cycling past the Old Post Road Bridge.

While many routes in Bedford Hills feature rolling hills and significant elevation, the North County Trailway offers a more family-friendly, paved path. This trailway runs through the area, providing a pleasant ride along Echo Lake and through tree-lined sections, often described as an old train track route, making it suitable for a less strenuous outing.

The region's natural beauty, especially its dense woodlands and reservoir views, is particularly vibrant in the fall when foliage changes color. Spring and summer also offer pleasant conditions for cycling, with lush greenery. While winter cycling is possible, be mindful of weather patterns and potential icy conditions on the roads.

Yes, Bedford Hills is an excellent destination for long-distance road cycling. Several routes exceed 80 km, with some extending well over 100 km. For example, the View of Browns Reservoir – Grant Road loop from Katonah is 120.6 km, and the Titicus Reservoir South Side – Titicus Reservoir North Side loop from Katonah is 137.2 km, offering extensive rides through the varied terrain.

Many road cycling routes in Bedford Hills originate from towns like Katonah, which likely offer public parking options. For specific trailheads or popular starting points, local parks and conservation areas such as Ward Pound Ridge Reservation or Bedford Hills Memorial Park may provide designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check local regulations for specific parking areas.

Bedford Hills is approximately 50 kilometers north of New York City, and public transport options exist to reach the general area. However, direct public transport access to specific road cycling trailheads might be limited. Cyclists often drive to a starting point in towns like Katonah to begin their routes. For detailed public transport information, it's best to consult local transit schedules for Westchester County.

The road cycling routes in Bedford Hills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Over 1,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the diverse terrain, scenic reservoir views, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs through rolling hills and dense woodlands.

Many of the prominent road cycling routes in Bedford Hills are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the View of Browns Reservoir – Grant Road loop from Katonah, the Titicus Reservoir North Side – View of Saugatuck Reservoir loop from Katonah, and the Titicus Reservoir South Side – Cross River Reservoir loop from Katonah. These circular routes are ideal for exploring the region without needing to retrace your path.

While the routes themselves often traverse scenic country roads and natural areas, towns and villages within or near the cycling network, such as Katonah or Bedford Hills, offer cafes and other establishments where you can stop for refreshments. Planning your route to pass through these towns can provide convenient breaks.

Beyond the stunning reservoir views, you can look out for the Red Bridge over the Croton Reservoir, a distinctive landmark. The North County Trailway itself is a point of interest, offering a pleasant, paved section. You might also encounter the Pine Bridge Monument, adding a touch of history to your ride.