Verona Park

This road cycling route offers a diverse experience, taking you from the serene, flat paths around the Orange Reservoir with its pleasant water views, through the rolling hills of urban parklands and residential streets. You'll encounter varied scenery, from natural settings to suburban landscapes, with the Watchung Mountains contributing to the dynamic topography. It's a moderate 30.0-mile (48.3 km) ride that includes 1069 feet (326 metres) of elevation gain, making it a good option if you're seeking a substantial workout with changing vistas.

To make the most of your ride, plan to go on a Sunday morning; Brookside Drive, a key segment of the loop, is closed to vehicular traffic until noon, offering a safer and more enjoyable cycling experience. The route is estimated to take about 2 hours and 14 minutes, so ensure you bring enough hydration and snacks. Starting from Montclair State University, you'll find the Orange Reservoir section particularly well-suited for a warm-up or interval training, thanks to its paved surface and distance markers.

Beyond the ride itself, the Orange Reservoir area is adjacent to the Turtle Back Zoo and offers swan boat rentals, providing additional activities if you're looking to extend your day. The reservoir loop's accessibility also allows for easy connections to other trails within the South Mountain Reservation. This route stands out for its combination of a flat, scenic reservoir path and the more challenging, undulating terrain of the surrounding parklands, offering a comprehensive road cycling adventure in Northern New Jersey.