The best road cycling routes around Beacon

Based on komoot data, there are over 10 road cycling routes around Beacon, catering to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy to difficult rides, with 2 easy, 8 moderate, and 4 difficult routes.

The region offers diverse terrain, from flat sections along the Hudson River and Fishkill Creek to rolling rural roads and significant climbs. Cyclists can expect routes with elevation gains up to 1,300 meters, providing options for both moderate and more challenging rides.

Yes, there are beginner-friendly options. The Fishkill Creek loop from Beacon is an easy 15.9-mile (25.6 km) trail that takes you through the natural beauty along Fishkill Creek, with a moderate elevation gain.

Many routes offer scenic views of the Hudson River and surrounding landscapes. The Newburgh-Beacon Bridge loop from Beacon provides views of the Hudson River as it crosses the bridge. For panoramic vistas, routes that ascend towards areas like Mount Beacon offer breathtaking sights, potentially stretching to the Manhattan skyline or Catskill Mountains on a clear day. You can also find highlights like the Ruins of the Mount Beacon Incline Railway Powerhouse or the South Beacon Mountain and Firetower.

For those seeking a challenge, the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge – Walkway Over the Hudson loop from Beacon is a difficult 93-mile (149.6 km) route with significant elevation gain, offering an extended exploration of the Hudson Valley.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the majestic Hudson River to the quiet rural roads, and the variety of routes catering to different fitness levels.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops for convenience. Examples include the Whaley Lake – Whaley Lake loop from Beacon, the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge loop from Beacon, and the Fishkill Creek loop from Beacon.

Beyond the cycling, Beacon offers several attractions. You can visit the Ruins of the Mount Beacon Incline Railway Powerhouse, or explore the Cornish Estate Ruins (North Gate). The town also features Dia Beacon, a renowned modern art museum, and a vibrant Main Street with shops and cafes. Natural features like Brook Falls are also accessible.

Beacon is highly accessible by train from New York City, making it a convenient escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The train station is located near waterfront parks like Long Dock Park, providing easy access to the Hudson River Trail and other cycling starting points.

The region boasts numerous charming villages like Marlboro and Milton, which offer opportunities for stops. Beacon's vibrant Main Street also has many shops, boutiques, and cafes perfect for a break after your ride. You might even find places like Benmarl Winery, America's oldest vineyard, along some routes.

The Hudson Valley generally offers pleasant cycling conditions from spring through fall. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn showcases stunning fall foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible but may require specific gear and awareness of road conditions.

Yes, the area around Beacon includes natural features like waterfalls. You can find Brook Falls as a highlight, and the Roundhouse at Beacon Falls overlooks a picturesque waterfall, which can be a scenic point of interest during your ride.