The best cycling routes around Mountain Lakes
4.7
(11)
80
riders
24
rides
Touring cycling around Mountain Lakes offers routes that navigate a landscape characterized by rivers, lakes, and a mix of paved roads and quieter paths. The region features moderate elevation changes, with some routes following the Rockaway River and passing by various water bodies. This area provides a varied terrain suitable for different cycling preferences.
Best touring cycling routes around Mountain Lakes
- The most popular touring cycling route is Pine Brook Road loop, a 24.0 miles (38.6 km) trail that takes 2 hours 21 minutes to complete. This moderate route features a mix of road cycling with some elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Rockaway River – Cedar Lake Swimming Dock loop from Denville, a moderate 29.3 miles (47.1 km) path. This route offers views of the Rockaway River and Cedar Lake.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Rockaway River loop from Victory Gardens, a 8.6 miles (13.8 km) trail leading through riverside scenery, often completed in about 49 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Mountain Lakes is defined by river valleys, lake views, and local roads. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging moderate routes.
- The routes in Mountain Lakes are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 60 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Mountain Lakes's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 5, 2026
4.0
(5)
6
riders
38.6km
02:22
320m
320m
Embark on the Pine Brook Road loop for a moderate touring cycling experience that spans 24.0 miles (38.6 km). You will encounter mostly paved surfaces, making it ideal for road cycling as you gain 1041 feet (317 metres) in elevation. This route offers a pleasant journey through the Montville area, with an estimated duration of 2 hours and 21 minutes, providing a solid ride without being overly strenuous. Keep an eye out for the Boonton Reservoir Dam, a notable man-made landmark that adds a point of interest to your ride. The atmosphere is generally calm and scenic, perfect for a focused cycling session. You'll find the terrain manageable, designed for a smooth and enjoyable outing. The overall experience is one of steady progress through varied local surroundings.
Planning your visit to the Pine Brook Road loop is straightforward, as the starting point is conveniently accessible by public transport. This offers a practical option if you prefer not to drive to the trailhead. Since the route is primarily designed for road cycling on paved surfaces, you should select your bike accordingly to ensure the best experience. While no specific warnings are highlighted for this particular route, it is always wise to check local conditions before heading out. This ensures you are prepared for any unforeseen circumstances or changes in the route. Consider starting your ride in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and less traffic, especially on weekends.
The Pine Brook Road loop stands out as a well-rounded option for touring cyclists looking to explore the Montville area. The route's design emphasizes paved surfaces, catering specifically to road bikes and offering a consistent ride quality. The inclusion of the Boonton Reservoir Dam provides a distinct visual anchor, connecting your ride to a local point of interest. This loop is a great way to experience the region's landscape from the saddle, offering a balance of physical activity and scenic enjoyment. It serves as an excellent example of a well-maintained local cycling path, providing a reliable option for your next outing. The route's moderate difficulty makes it accessible to a wide range of cyclists, from those seeking a good workout to others simply enjoying a longer ride.
5.0
(1)
15
riders
45.1km
02:41
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
riders
13.8km
00:50
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
14.4km
00:53
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
44.5km
02:40
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
From this spot you get nice view of the water cascading over the Boonton Reservoir Dam. This is a pretty spot to ride past as you explore the area.
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The Rockaway River, spanning about 35 miles, is a tributary of the Passaic River. In the 19th century, it played an important role as an industrial transportation link, connecting to the Morris Canal near Wharton, which was a big part of the shipping of coal and iron ore between Pennsylvania and New York City. While historically there were pollution issues, the isolated upper course of the river is now a popular site for smallmouth bass fishing.
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The 700-acre Boonton Reservoir, situated between Boonton and Parsippany–Troy Hills, New Jersey, serves as a vital water source for Jersey City, alongside the nearby Splitrock Reservoir.
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Good view of the Rockaway River as you go over this bridge. The Rockaway River is a tributary of the Passaic River. The upper course of the river flows through these wooded areas, whereas the lower course flows through the populated New Jersey suburbs and former industrial areas.
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Taylortown Reservoir is a public water supply system owned by the town of Boonton. Its beautiful surrounding nature and the Orange Trail leading along the western side of the reservoir make it a nice spot to visit in Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area.
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Good view of the Rockaway River as you go over this bridge. The Rockaway River is a tributary of the Passaic River. The upper course of the river flows through these wooded areas, whereas the lower course flows through the populated New Jersey suburbs and former industrial areas.
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Montville is a lovely township. It's very pleasant to ride here.
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a good spot to rest and appreciate the water
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Mountain Lakes?
There are over two dozen touring cycling routes around Mountain Lakes, offering a variety of experiences. The region features 7 easy routes, 15 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options, catering to different skill levels.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Yes, Mountain Lakes offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. A good option is the Rockaway River loop from Victory Gardens, which is 8.6 miles (13.8 km) long and takes about 49 minutes. Another easy choice is the Mountain Lakes Dock and Boats – Rockaway River loop from Boonton, covering 8.9 miles (14.4 km) in about 52 minutes.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the touring cycling routes?
The touring cycling routes around Mountain Lakes are characterized by river valleys, scenic lake views, and a mix of paved roads and quieter paths. You'll often find yourself cycling alongside the Rockaway River and passing by various water bodies. Routes like the Rockaway River – Cedar Lake Swimming Dock loop from Denville offer direct views of Cedar Lake.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Mountain Lakes area?
Many of the touring cycling routes in Mountain Lakes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Pine Brook Road loop and the View of Boonton Reservoir Dam – Rockaway River loop from Boonton.
What are some interesting places to explore or landmarks to see along the routes?
Along your touring cycling routes, you can discover several points of interest. Consider visiting Hawkwatch Overlook for panoramic views, or the Tripod Rock, a unique natural monument. You'll also encounter various lakes like Speedwell Lake and the Boonton Reservoir Dam.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Mountain Lakes?
The touring cycling experience in Mountain Lakes is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the beautiful river and lake views, and the mix of road cycling with quieter paths that make for an enjoyable ride.
Are there any routes that offer good viewpoints?
Yes, for scenic viewpoints, you might want to include a stop at Hawkwatch Overlook. While not directly on every cycling route, it's a notable highlight in the region that offers expansive views.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Mountain Lakes?
The Mountain Lakes region offers enjoyable cycling conditions through much of the year. Spring and fall typically provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer is great for enjoying the lakes. Winter cycling may be possible, but conditions can vary, so checking local weather and trail status is advisable.
Are there any specific trails or paths that are less crowded?
While specific crowd levels can vary, many routes in Mountain Lakes incorporate quieter local roads and paths, especially those that follow the Rockaway River. Exploring some of the less-trafficked sections away from main roads can offer a more serene experience.
What are the typical distances and durations for touring cycling routes here?
The touring cycling routes around Mountain Lakes vary in length and duration. Easy routes, such as the Rockaway River loop from Victory Gardens, can be as short as 8.6 miles (13.8 km) and take under an hour. Moderate routes, like the Pine Brook Road loop, are typically around 24 miles (38.6 km) and can take over two hours to complete.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling options in Mountain Lakes?
For families, the easier and shorter loop routes are generally the most suitable. The Rockaway River loop from Victory Gardens is a good example, offering a manageable distance and duration for a family outing. Always check the route's difficulty and terrain to ensure it matches your family's comfort level.
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