The best gravel rides around Hackensack

Gravel biking around Hackensack features diverse landscapes, including dirt roads that wind through forests and along tranquil streams. You'll encounter varied terrain, from hilly sections to scenic pastoral views, often passing through charming small towns. The region offers a mix of natural landscapes and established paths.

Yes, there are options suitable for beginners. For example, the Piermont Railway Station (historic) – Old Erie Rail Trail (gravel) loop from Harrington Park is rated as an easy route, covering 27.2 km with moderate elevation changes, making it a good choice for those new to gravel biking.

The region offers several scenic spots. You can ride along the Hackensack River in Hackensack River County Park, or explore areas near the Saddle River. Nearby natural attractions include Oradell Reservoir and Wild Duck Pond, which offer picturesque views.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in the area are designed as loops. For instance, the 9W Market – Piermont Railway Station (historic) loop from Oradell is a popular circular trail that takes you through varied landscapes.

The gravel biking routes around Hackensack are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 3 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, scenic views, and the opportunity to explore both forested paths and charming small towns.

While specific public transport connections to trailheads can vary, many parks and trail systems in Bergen County are relatively accessible. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules for routes connecting to areas like Hackensack River County Park or Saddle River County Park, which offer good starting points for gravel rides.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Putnam Trail – South County Trailway loop from 191st Street is a challenging option. This extensive route spans 109.8 km (68.2 miles) with significant elevation gain, offering varied terrain over a full day of riding.

The Hackensack area is generally pleasant for gravel biking during spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer favorable weather conditions for exploring the dirt roads and forested paths. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy or muddy conditions on unpaved sections.

Many routes pass through or near charming small towns in Bergen County. While specific cafes on every trail are not guaranteed, towns like Piermont, which is part of the 9W Market – Piermont Railway Station (historic) loop from Harrington Park, often have local establishments where cyclists can refuel.

Many parks in Bergen County, including those with gravel sections, are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. Always check the specific regulations for each park or trail you plan to visit, such as Hackensack River County Park or Saddle River County Park, to ensure compliance.

The elevation gain varies significantly depending on the route. Shorter, easier trails like the Piermont Railway Station (historic) – Old Erie Rail Trail (gravel) loop from Harrington Park have around 135 meters of elevation. More challenging routes, such as the Putnam Trail – South County Trailway loop from 191st Street, can feature over 735 meters of climbing, offering a good workout.

Yes, Hackensack River County Park and Saddle River County Park are well-known for their paths suitable for biking, which often include gravel sections. Overpeck County Park and the broader Palisades Interstate Park also offer outdoor adventures with potential gravel riding opportunities.