The best road cycling routes around Highland Lakes
42
riders
18
rides
Road cycling routes around Highland Lakes are characterized by rolling terrain and numerous lakes, offering diverse landscapes for cyclists. The region features a network of roads that wind around picturesque waterways and through varied elevation changes. This area provides a mix of moderate and challenging routes, with some paths offering significant elevation gain. The landscape is defined by its natural beauty, making it suitable for different road cycling preferences.
Best road cycling routes around Highland Lakes
- The most popular road cycling route is Greenwood Lake – Pinecliff Lake loop from West Milford, a 22.8 miles (36.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 34 minutes to complete. This moderate route features scenic views around the lakes.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Mount Laurel Lake – Pinecliff Lake loop from West Milford, a moderate 20.2 miles (32.5 km) path. This route offers a pleasant ride through the local landscape with moderate elevation changes.
- Local road cyclists also love the Hawks Nest – Lake Wallkill loop from Vernon Center, a 73.2 miles (117.7 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 5 hours 57 minutes.
- Road cycling around Highland Lakes is defined by picturesque lakes, rolling hills, and varied elevation gains. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to more difficult, longer rides.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 35 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Highland Lakes's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
18
riders
36.6km
01:34
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
32.5km
01:31
300m
300m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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6
riders
104km
05:13
1,520m
1,520m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
33.5km
01:50
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
40.3km
02:12
520m
520m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Highland Lakes
Tips from the Community
The border between New York and New Jersey runs to the middle of the 7-mile long Greenwood Lake. The area has been popular with tourists for decades, including Babe Ruth, who visited the area frequently in the 1930s and 40s. These days visitors will find many marinas and restaurants dotted along its shores, beckoning them to stop for a while.
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Mount Laurel Lake is an extension of the much larger Upper Greenwood Lake. Mount Laurel Lake is connected to the larger lake at the southern end and can be viewed from the Warwick Turnpike as you bike by.
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Wanaque Reservoir is a man-made lake on the Wanaque River. It really is a very pretty lake with its tree lined shores. It is quite hard to get a viewing point, but you can get a good eyeful of it here as you cross the Westbrook Road Bridge.
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This is a nice viewpoint along the green-blazed Otter Hole Trail. You might see some cascades along this trail, but it's really best-known for showcasing some interesting rock formations.
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Very pretty when you can see the water. It's harder to see during the summer because of the foliage, but there a couple of spots where viewing is nice. Better to ride when traffic is light (early in the morning)
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On East Shore Road, you ride with nice views of the lake.
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Approx. 1-mile loop through the residential lake community. There’s a beach where you can take a dip.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in the Highland Lakes area?
There are 17 road cycling routes available around Highland Lakes. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from moderate loops to more challenging, longer rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling around Highland Lakes?
The Highland Lakes region is characterized by rolling terrain and numerous picturesque lakes. You'll find a network of roads winding around these waterways, offering varied elevation changes. This includes both moderate climbs and more significant elevation gains on some routes.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Highland Lakes?
Yes, there is at least one easy road cycling route available. Most routes are classified as moderate, offering a pleasant ride with manageable elevation changes, suitable for those with some cycling experience.
What are some longer road cycling routes for experienced riders in Highland Lakes?
For experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, consider the Hawks Nest – Lake Wallkill loop from Vernon Center. This route spans 73.2 miles (117.7 km) and features significant elevation gain, typically taking nearly 6 hours to complete.
What are some popular loop routes for road cycling in Highland Lakes?
Several popular loop routes showcase the region's beauty. The Greenwood Lake – Pinecliff Lake loop from West Milford is a favorite, as is the Lake Wallkill loop from Vernon Township. Another scenic option is the Upper Greenwood Lake – Greenwood Lake loop from Woodruff Gap.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or landmarks along the road cycling routes?
While cycling, you'll enjoy picturesque views of various lakes, including Greenwood Lake, Pinecliff Lake, Mount Laurel Lake, Lake Wallkill, and Upper Greenwood Lake. The region's natural beauty is its primary draw. You might also pass by areas near Wawayanda Lake or Surprise Lake.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Highland Lakes?
The best time for road cycling in the Highland Lakes region is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, making for enjoyable rides. Winter cycling may be possible but could involve colder temperatures and potential for icy conditions.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Highland Lakes?
While specific family-friendly paved trails are not detailed, the region offers routes with varying difficulty. The easier and moderate loops, such as the Mount Laurel Lake – Pinecliff Lake loop from West Milford, could be suitable for families with some cycling experience, especially if they prefer routes with moderate elevation changes.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Highland Lakes?
Road cyclists frequently praise the picturesque lakes and the rolling hills that define the Highland Lakes landscape. The varied terrain offers options for different ability levels, ensuring a rewarding experience for many riders.
Are there any routes that feature both lakes and significant elevation gain?
Yes, routes like the Upper Greenwood Lake – Greenwood Lake loop from Woodruff Gap offer both beautiful lake views and substantial elevation gain, providing a challenging yet scenic ride through the region's characteristic rolling hills.
Can I find routes that are primarily around a single lake?
While many routes connect multiple lakes, the Lake Wallkill loop from Vernon Township is a good example of a route that focuses on a single body of water, offering a moderate 33.5 km ride around its perimeter.
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