The best road cycling routes around Leonardo
4.7
(15)
737
riders
65
rides
Road cycling around Leonardo, New Jersey, is characterized by its coastal landscapes, riverfront paths, and wooded parks. The region offers a mix of flat, scenic routes along the shore and more undulating terrain through areas like Hartshorne Woods. Cyclists can explore routes that hug the Atlantic coastline, follow the Shrewsbury River, and pass through charming seaside towns. The elevation changes are generally moderate, with some hills providing varied challenges.
Best road cycling routes around Leonardo
- The most popular road cycling route is Shore Tour North, a 35.3 miles (56.9 km) trail that takes 2 hours 15 minutes to complete. This route offers expansive views along the coastline.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Hartshorne Woods Park & Atlantic Highlands loop, an easy 13.9 miles (22.4 km) path. This route combines wooded sections with coastal stretches and takes about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Local road cyclists also love the Bike Lane at Hartshorne Drive – Sandy Hook Lighthouse loop from Highlands, a 25.8 miles (41.5 km) trail leading through coastal scenery and past the historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse, often completed in about 1 hour 55 minutes.
- Road cycling around Leonardo is defined by coastal paths, riverfront routes, and wooded parklands. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy loops to moderate distances with rolling hills.
- The routes in Leonardo are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 16 reviews. More than 800 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Leonardo's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 1, 2026
5.0
(1)
11
riders
56.9km
02:15
130m
130m
The Shore Tour North offers a moderate road cycling experience, covering 35.3 miles (56.9 km) with a gentle 418 feet (127 metres) of elevation gain. You'll cycle along the scenic Sandy Hook peninsula, enjoying diverse views from wetlands and shaded holly forests to open fields and the coast. Keep an eye out for the iconic Sandy Hook Lighthouse and distant glimpses of the New York City skyline as you ride. This route typically takes about 2 hours and 14 minutes to complete.
Much of the route uses traffic-free paths, including sections of the Henry Hudson Trail, making it largely accessible for road bikes. However, be prepared for numerous roadway crossings and some sections with bumps caused by tree roots. The overall design connects over 20 miles of dedicated paths with only about 2 miles of on-road connections. Sandy Hook itself provides many attractions if you wish to extend your visit beyond the ride.
This tour is situated within the Gateway National Recreation Area, known for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. As you ride, you'll experience diverse ecosystems, from coastal habitats to maritime forests. The route includes shared-use paths running right alongside beaches, offering a distinctive coastal cycling adventure and a great way to explore the New Jersey shore.
5
riders
22.4km
01:10
260m
260m
Easy 13.9-mile road cycling loop through Hartshorne Woods Park and Atlantic Highlands, offering coastal views and wooded scenery.
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5.0
(1)
79
riders
40.6km
01:51
290m
300m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
13
riders
46.3km
02:08
200m
200m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5
riders
82.9km
03:52
600m
600m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Ride a bike, run or walk the beautiful Bayshore shoreline
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Can get there by foot or by bicycle or by car. This is one of the launch sites for the Nike missiles that were installed in the Cold War days for the last chance defense mechanism against an airborne attack.
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Super awesome bike shop. It was originally the post office back in the 50’s or 60’s (?)… now is a locally owned bike shop with some of Lance Armstrong’s old TDF bikes on display. Great people, awesome atmosphere. They have all sorts of stuff there and good mechanics as well.
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Crappiest bridge in all of Monmouth county… if you are riding a bike, take it slow and easy as the surface is horrible. Catch it during a sunrise and it’s epic or a sunset… can be some spectacular views form the center.
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It’s a drawbridge that opens on-demand during off-peak season and every 30min when requested during on-peak season… but, it’s quick so if you get caught at the open bridge on bike or foot, just relax a minute and enjoy the views :)
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Go early in the morning to have the sunrise behind the old officers houses and the lighthouse in your background. Or go in the evening to stand with the officers houses at your back and watch the sunset over the hills of Highlands, Atlantic Highlands and the Raritan Bay… catch it at the right time of the year and you can watch the sunset looking one way and the moonrise looking the other way :)
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The park was originally called Memorial Park, but the name was changed to Victory Park in 1945 to honor the Rumson residents who served in World War II.
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The Shrewsbury River is an 8-mile-long stream and navigable estuary. It's protected from the Atlantic Ocean by a long barrier peninsula. It's a popular spot for recreational boating and fishing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of road cycling routes can I expect around Leonardo?
Road cycling around Leonardo, New Jersey, offers a diverse experience with coastal landscapes, riverfront paths, and wooded parks. You'll find a mix of flat, scenic routes along the shore and more undulating terrain through areas like Hartshorne Woods, providing varied challenges. Routes often hug the Atlantic coastline, follow the Shrewsbury River, and pass through charming seaside towns.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Leonardo?
Yes, Leonardo offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Hartshorne Woods Park & Atlantic Highlands loop is an easy 13.9-mile path that combines wooded sections with coastal stretches. There are 18 easy routes available, ensuring options for all skill levels.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Leonardo area?
There are over 70 road cycling routes available around Leonardo. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 18 easy, 51 moderate, and 1 difficult option, ensuring a suitable ride for every cyclist.
What are some scenic viewpoints or landmarks to see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer scenic viewpoints and pass by notable landmarks. You can enjoy expansive views along the coastline on routes like Shore Tour North. The Bike Lane at Hartshorne Drive – Sandy Hook Lighthouse loop from Highlands leads through coastal scenery and past the historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse. Other highlights include the Henry Hudson Bike Trail and the wooded areas of Hartshorne Woods Park.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in Leonardo?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Leonardo are designed as loops, offering circular journeys. For example, the Hartshorne Woods Park & Atlantic Highlands loop and the Bike Lane at Hartshorne Drive – Sandy Hook Lighthouse loop from Highlands are popular circular options that allow you to start and end at the same point.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Leonardo?
The road cycling routes in Leonardo are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 16 reviews. More than 800 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the coastal paths, riverfront routes, and the mix of easy and moderate challenges.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Leonardo?
Given Leonardo's coastal location in New Jersey, spring, summer, and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling. These seasons provide comfortable temperatures and less chance of severe weather, allowing you to fully enjoy the scenic coastal and wooded routes.
Are there any routes that follow the Shrewsbury River?
Yes, several routes in the Leonardo area follow the Shrewsbury River, offering picturesque views. The Shrewsbury River – Navesink Beach loop from Belford and the longer Shrewsbury River – Oceanic Bridge loop from Navesink are excellent choices for experiencing the riverfront scenery.
Are there any advanced road cycling routes for experienced riders?
While most routes are easy to moderate, there is one route classified as difficult, offering a greater challenge for experienced riders. The region's terrain, with its moderate elevation changes and some rolling hills, provides opportunities for more demanding rides, especially on longer routes.
Can I find road cycling routes that pass through charming towns or offer places for refreshments?
Yes, many routes in Leonardo pass through charming seaside towns like Atlantic Highlands. These towns often provide opportunities for refreshments, cafes, and a chance to explore local culture during your ride.
What are the typical distances and durations for road cycling routes around Leonardo?
The routes vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter, easy paths like the Hartshorne Woods Park & Atlantic Highlands loop, which is about 13.9 miles (22.4 km) and takes around 1 hour 10 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Shore Tour North, cover about 35.3 miles (56.9 km) and can take over 2 hours.
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