The best gravel rides around Middlesex

Gravel biking in Middlesex primarily features historic canal towpaths and riverine landscapes. You'll encounter flat to gently rolling terrain, often following waterways like the Delaware and Raritan Canal. The paths offer a mix of hard-packed dirt and gravel surfaces, suitable for gravel bikes, with open fields, natural preserves, and views of the Raritan River.

Yes, there are several routes suitable for beginners. For a relatively shorter and easier option, consider the Old East Jersey – Raritan Canal Towpath loop from Rutgers University, which is 25.5 km long and rated as easy. This route offers a gentle introduction to the region's canal-side riding.

For a more extensive ride, the D&R Canal Towpath loop from New Brunswick is an excellent choice. This challenging route spans 100.3 km and follows the historic canal, providing consistent gravel surfaces for a long-distance adventure.

Many of the gravel routes in Middlesex are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore the area. For example, the Carnegie Lake Dam – View of the D&R Canal loop from Millstone is a 45.4 km circular trail that takes you through river valleys and past Carnegie Lake Dam.

The gravel bike trails in Middlesex offer a blend of natural and historical scenery. You can explore the extensive Delaware and Raritan Canal Towpath, enjoy views of the Raritan River, and ride through natural preserves like the Rutgers Ecological Preserve. The View of the D&R Canal – Rutgers Ecological Preserve loop from New Brunswick specifically combines canal-side riding with sections through this varied natural setting.

The generally flat to gently rolling terrain and hard-packed surfaces of many canal towpaths make them suitable for families. Routes like the Old East Jersey – Raritan Canal Towpath loop from Rutgers University offer an easy experience, perfect for a family outing, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural and historical surroundings.

The gravel biking routes in Middlesex are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 18 reviews. Riders often praise the unique experience of cycling along historic canal towpaths, the peaceful riverine landscapes, and the blend of natural preserves with open fields, offering a refreshing escape.

Yes, several routes start or pass near urban centers like New Brunswick, offering access to amenities. For instance, the Bound Brook loop from New Brunswick begins in New Brunswick, providing convenient access to cafes and other services before or after your ride.

The gravel biking routes in Middlesex cater to various ability levels. While some routes are easy, primarily following flat towpaths, others are moderate, incorporating varied scenery and slightly longer distances. The most extensive route, the D&R Canal Towpath loop, is rated as difficult due to its length, offering a robust challenge for experienced riders.

There are over 5 gravel bike routes available for exploration in Middlesex, ranging from easy to difficult. These routes have been explored by more than 110 gravel bikers using komoot, highlighting the area's popularity for this sport.

Given that many routes start or pass through towns like New Brunswick, which is a transportation hub, it is often possible to access the trails via public transport. Riders can plan their journey to start points near train stations or bus stops to connect with the canal towpaths and other trail networks.