The best road cycling routes around Upper Greenwood Lake

There are over 20 road cycling routes around Upper Greenwood Lake, offering a diverse range of options for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars.

The region around Upper Greenwood Lake offers varied terrain, from mostly well-paved surfaces suitable for easy rides to more challenging options with significant elevation gains and steeper grades. You'll find tree-lined roads, routes with views of lakes and surrounding hillsides, and mountainous sections, particularly on the eastern side of Greenwood Lake.

Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for beginners. For instance, the Greenwood Lake – Pinecliff Lake loop from Village of Greenwood Lake is an easy 19.7-mile (31.8 km) path that offers a less strenuous option with scenic views of the lakes and surrounding landscapes.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes with significant elevation gains are available. The broader Greenwood Lake area, particularly its eastern side, is known for steep grades. An example of a moderate route with notable elevation is the Monksville Dam – Greenwood Lake loop from Long Pond Ironworks State Park, which covers 48.1 km with nearly 600 meters of elevation gain.

Many routes offer beautiful views of the region's natural features. You can expect to see Upper Greenwood Lake itself, as well as other bodies of water like Wawayanda Lake, Sterling Lake, and the Monksville Dam. Crossing the Monksville Dam on Stonetown Road provides excellent views of the reservoir and surrounding hills. Routes often traverse wooded areas, offering a natural setting.

While specific named overlooks might vary, many routes offer panoramic views, especially those that climb higher elevations. The roads around Upper Greenwood Lake and the broader Greenwood Lake area provide vistas of the lakes and surrounding hillsides. The section crossing the Monksville Dam is particularly noted for its excellent views of the reservoir and hills.

The region is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Fall is particularly scenic for road biking, as the wooded areas along the routes display vibrant fall foliage. Spring and summer also offer pleasant conditions, with tree-lined roads providing shade and refreshing lake views.

While many routes involve elevation changes, easier loops like the Greenwood Lake – Pinecliff Lake loop from Village of Greenwood Lake can be more suitable for families looking for a less strenuous ride. It's always recommended to check the route's difficulty and elevation profile to ensure it matches your family's fitness level.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the blend of varied terrain, the scenic views of lakes and wooded areas, and the options available for different ability levels, from easy loops to challenging climbs.

Most of the popular road cycling routes around Upper Greenwood Lake are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. Examples include the Greenwood Lake – Pinecliff Lake loop from West Milford and the Roadbike loop from Village of Warwick.

While the main Greenwood Lake area can be popular, the roads directly around Upper Greenwood Lake are generally less traveled, contributing to a more tranquil cycling experience. Exploring routes slightly off the main thoroughfares can also lead to quieter rides.

The Upper Greenwood Lake area is a year-round community, and while specific roadside cafes directly on every route might vary, you can find amenities in the surrounding villages and towns. It's advisable to plan your route and check for available services in towns like West Milford or the Village of Greenwood Lake for refreshment stops.