The best gravel rides around Saddle River

Gravel biking in Saddle River offers a mix of surfaces. While the main path in Saddle River County Park is paved, there are dedicated off-road dirt paths within the park, some stretching up to 2 miles. You'll find a blend of smooth sections, unpaved dirt trails, wooded areas, open green spaces, and riverside views along the Saddle River and its tributary brooks. Routes in the broader area can also include unpaved and potentially challenging segments.

Yes, the area offers options suitable for various fitness levels. The relatively flat terrain within Saddle River County Park, with its mix of paved and unpaved sections, is generally suitable for families and beginners. For an easy, dedicated gravel experience, consider the Piermont Railway Station (historic) – Old Erie Rail Trail (gravel) loop from Harrington Park, which is 16.9 miles long and features a dedicated gravel section.

Saddle River County Park features several off-road dirt paths that branch off the main paved trail and delve into the woods. The longest of these unpaved sections is approximately 2 miles long, running from Fair Lawn to Paramus, alongside the paved trail but on the opposite bank of the Saddle River. These dirt paths are suitable for gravel biking.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy views of the Saddle River itself, and various ponds like the Wild Duck Pond in Ridgewood. Larger reservoirs such as the Oradell Reservoir and Lake Tappan offer scenic views, with a gravel road along the northern edge of the Oradell Reservoir. A scenic waterfall can also be found at Dunkerhook Park within Saddle River County Park.

For those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, the Putnam Trail – South County Trailway loop from Montvale is an excellent option. This difficult 82.6-mile trail leads through multiple park systems and wooded areas, typically taking around 9 hours and 54 minutes to complete.

The routes in Saddle River are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 2 reviews. More than 28 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Saddle River's varied terrain, often praising the mix of surfaces and the tranquil, green environment.

Yes, there are several loop options available. A popular moderate loop is the 9W Market – Piermont Railway Station (historic) loop from Harrington Park, which is 37.9 miles long and combines paved and unpaved sections through varied landscapes, including views of the historic Piermont Railway Station.

Saddle River County Park is accessible, and while specific public transport routes for cyclists might vary, local bus services often connect to towns near the park. It's advisable to check NJ Transit schedules for routes that serve towns like Ridgewood, Paramus, or Rochelle Park, which are adjacent to different sections of the linear park.

Saddle River County Park, being a linear park, has multiple access points and parking lots along its length. You can find parking facilities at various sections of the park, such as in Ridgewood, Paramus, or Rochelle Park, providing convenient access to the trails.

Saddle River offers a pleasant experience for gravel biking through much of the year. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery with lush greenery or vibrant foliage. While winter riding is possible, some unpaved sections might be muddy or icy, so checking local conditions is recommended.

The towns surrounding Saddle River County Park, such as Ridgewood, Paramus, and Rochelle Park, offer various cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can stop for refreshments. Since the park is linear and connects these towns, you'll find opportunities to refuel along or near the routes.