1.
Quiet backroads and almost no traffic – River Road loop from Rhinecliff
43.5km
02:06
330m
330m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated May 28, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling around Rhinecliff, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many roads and paths, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed countless routes here, and we've distilled that collective wisdom into a curated shortlist of the very best, saving you all the guesswork.
Road cycling in Rhinecliff is all about those stunning Hudson River views, rolling hills, and wonderfully quiet backroads. You'll find a diverse landscape here, from gentle, tree-lined paths winding through apple orchards to more challenging routes with moderate climbs that reward you with panoramic vistas of the Catskill Mountains. The region truly shines with its extensive network of traffic-free paths and multi-use rail trails, making for smooth, enjoyable rides away from cars.
If you only do one ride, we'd start with the Quiet backroads and almost no traffic – River Road loop from Rhinecliff. This 27.0 miles (43.5 km) route is a local favorite for a reason, offering continuous views along the Hudson River and a perfect taste of the area's charm. For something a bit shorter but equally scenic, the 18.0 miles (28.9 km) Glen Pond – Old Post Road loop from Rhinecliff navigates charming country estates and farmlands. With an average rating of 4.8 stars from more than 40 reviews, you can trust that the komoot community has found the best of Rhinecliff for you.
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quiet backroads and almost no traffic – River Road loop from Rhinecliff | 43.5 km | 330 m | Moderate |
| Glen Pond – Old Post Road loop from Rhinecliff | 45.7 km | 370 m | Moderate |
43.5km
02:06
330m
330m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
45.7km
02:19
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
This road gently undulates whilst running through the trees, giving you a fantastic opportunity to get your speed up and watch the nature go by.
0
0
This gently undulating road is lined with trees on both sides and remains quiet for much of the day. It makes a perfect stretch to cycle on, and immerse yourself in nature.
0
0
Glen Pond is a small water runoff pond on the corner of Glen Pond Drive. The small area of trees right behind it makes it a popular area for small wildlife.
0
0
road surface is soso but by far better than anything NYC has to offer ;)
0
1
There are over 45 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Rhinecliff listed on komoot. These routes primarily utilize quiet backroads and scenic paths, ensuring a peaceful and safe cycling experience away from heavy vehicle traffic.
Yes, Rhinecliff offers several easy no-traffic road cycling routes. For instance, the Quiet backroads and almost no traffic – River Road - Fantastic Ride loop from Rhinecliff is an excellent option, covering about 29 km with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxed ride. The region's rolling hills and quiet backroads are generally well-suited for various fitness levels.
You can expect diverse and picturesque scenery. Many routes offer stunning views of the Hudson River, especially those near the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge. You'll also cycle through charming country estates, farmlands, and quiet, tree-lined backroads in areas like Rhinebeck and Tivoli, often with the majestic Catskill Mountains as a backdrop.
Yes, several routes pass by or offer access to notable attractions. For example, the Clermont State Historic Site – Quiet backroads and almost no traffic loop from Rhinecliff takes you near the historic Clermont State Historic Site. You might also encounter scenic viewpoints like the Hudson River Overlook or cross the George Clinton Kingston–Rhinecliff Bridge, which provides access to the Empire State Trail.
The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in Rhinecliff, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the abundance of quiet backroads, the stunning Hudson River views, and the overall peaceful atmosphere that allows for an immersive ride without the constant worry of traffic.
Yes, the broader Hudson Valley area, accessible from Rhinecliff, features extensive car-free paths. The Empire State Trail, which integrates the Hudson Valley Greenway Trail, offers long-distance cycling adventures on mostly paved or packed-gravel surfaces. You can access sections of this trail, for example, by crossing the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge.
The best time to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in Rhinecliff is typically from spring through fall. The weather is generally pleasant, and the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley, especially during autumn foliage, is spectacular. While some routes may be accessible in winter, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice.
Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Rhinecliff are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Quiet backroads and almost no traffic – River Road loop from Rhinecliff and the Glen Pond – Old Post Road loop from Rhinecliff, offering varied distances and scenery.
Parking is generally available in and around Rhinecliff and nearby towns like Rhinebeck. Many routes, especially those starting from Rhinecliff, have designated parking areas or street parking options. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.
Rhinecliff is served by Amtrak, making it accessible by train. While direct public transport to every trailhead might be limited, the Rhinecliff station provides a good starting point for many routes, and you can often cycle directly from the station to connect with the no-traffic backroads and paths. For longer distances, consider checking local bus services or ride-sharing options for specific trailheads.
Many routes pass through or near charming towns like Rhinebeck and Tivoli, where you'll find a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops. These towns offer excellent opportunities to refuel and relax during your ride. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify these amenities along your chosen path.


Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.