The best road cycling routes in Arthur Kunz County Park

There are 39 road cycling routes in the Arthur Kunz County Park area, with 13 classified as easy and 26 as moderate. None are considered difficult, offering a range of options for different skill levels.

Routes in this area often navigate the western bank of the Nissequogue River, featuring forested properties and rolling hills. While Arthur Kunz County Park itself has natural, unpaved trails, the broader network includes segments with mostly paved surfaces suitable for road cycling. You can expect varied elevations and some notable climbs, passing through mixed deciduous forests and areas near tidal creeks.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Old Field Point Light – Mount Sinai Harbor loop from Smithtown is a popular moderate route offering extensive views. Another option is the Rocky Point Parking – Artists Lake loop from Smithtown, which traverses varied terrain near Artists Lake.

For longer rides, consider the Allsop-Fisher Saltmarsh – Mill Pond loop from Kings Park, which covers over 63 miles (101 km). Another substantial option is the Cold Spring Harbor State Park – Muttontown Road loop from Kings Park, spanning approximately 54 miles (87 km).

While the park itself has natural trails, the surrounding area offers some shorter, moderate road cycling options. The Asharoken Beach – Sandy Beach loop from Kings Park is a 25-mile route that leads through coastal areas, which might be suitable for families looking for a moderate ride.

The region is known for its beautiful fall foliage, making autumn a particularly scenic time for cycling. Spring and early summer also offer pleasant conditions before the peak heat of summer. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow, especially on unpaved sections of connecting trails.

Road cycling routes in the area often provide scenic views of the Nissequogue River and its estuarine mouth. Coastal routes, such as those near Mount Sinai Harbor or Asharoken Beach, offer extensive views of the coastline. The park itself features diverse habitats including tidal creeks, mixed deciduous forests, and hidden ponds, which contribute to the natural beauty of the area.

While specific parking details for road cycling routes are not always listed, many routes start from towns like Smithtown or Kings Park, where public parking options are typically available. For routes like the Rocky Point Parking – Artists Lake loop from Smithtown, parking is often designated at the starting point.

Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of Arthur Kunz County Park may be limited, as it is a secluded natural area. However, routes often begin in nearby towns like Smithtown or Kings Park, which may have better public transport connections. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules for these towns and plan your connection to the route start point accordingly.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in the Arthur Kunz County Park area. Over 130 road cyclists have explored these routes, often praising the diverse landscapes, from forested properties and rolling hills to coastal views and areas near tidal creeks. The variety of moderate routes also makes it appealing for many riders.