Trails of Allaire State Park – Manasquan Reservoir loop from Asbury Park

If you're a road cyclist looking for a ride that packs a lot of variety into a manageable distance, the Trails of Allaire State Park – Manasquan Reservoir loop from Asbury Park is a moderate 40.0 miles (64.3 km) route with 818 feet (249 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 49 minutes. It's a great option for those who want to blend seaside charm with peaceful natural and historic landscapes without tackling huge climbs.

What to expect on Trails of Allaire State Park – Manasquan Reservoir loop from Asbury Park

This route takes you on a scenic journey, starting with classic New Jersey shore vistas from Asbury Park. You'll transition to the peaceful, paved Edgar Felix Memorial Bikeway, winding through woods and past farm animals. Entering Allaire State Park, the scenery shifts to oak and pine forests, with a chance to explore the historic Allaire Village. The final leg around the Manasquan Reservoir offers wide-open water views, though be prepared for its crushed gravel surface, which can be a bit challenging for narrow road bike tires. Overall, it's a ride for road cyclists seeking diverse landscapes, but be mindful of the varied surfaces.

Planning your visit

This loop is largely considered easy to moderate, depending on your comfort with crushed gravel and navigating connecting roads. While the route starts in vibrant Asbury Park, you'll find dedicated bike paths like the Edgar Felix Memorial Bikeway offering a safe passage. The Manasquan Reservoir perimeter trail is wide and well-maintained, but its crushed gravel surface means road bike tires might not get the smoothest, fastest ride. Consider the best time to road cycle central New Jersey for pleasant weather, as this route offers diverse scenery year-round.

Trail details

• Distance: 40.0 miles (64.3 km)
• Elevation gain: 818 feet (249 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 49 minutes