The best gravel rides around Mount Kisco

There are 15 gravel bike trails around Mount Kisco listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists.

Gravel biking around Mount Kisco offers a range of challenges. While there are no easy routes listed, you'll find 2 moderate and 13 difficult trails, many featuring significant elevation gains. Routes often incorporate varied terrain from rolling countryside to high ridges.

The terrain around Mount Kisco is diverse, featuring unpaved roads, multi-use paths, and dirt roads. You can expect varied surfaces from smooth gravel to more rugged jeep trails, especially within areas like Ward Pound Ridge Reservation and Mountain Lakes Park. The region is characterized by rolling countryside, deep hollows, and high ridges.

Yes, Mount Kisco's gravel routes are rich with natural beauty. Many trails incorporate picturesque reservoirs like the Cross River Reservoir and New Croton Dam, offering stunning views. You might also encounter diverse ecosystems, hemlock gorges, and wetlands, particularly within the expansive Ward Pound Ridge Reservation. The New Croton Dam itself provides great views over the reservoir.

While many gravel routes around Mount Kisco are rated moderate to difficult, sections of the North County Trailway, which is primarily paved but connects to unpaved routes, are known for being accessible and suitable for families. For dedicated gravel, look for routes with less elevation gain and smoother surfaces, though these may require careful selection.

Beyond natural features, you can encounter several interesting landmarks. The New Croton Dam is a prominent feature on several routes, offering impressive views. The Red Bridge over the Croton Reservoir is another scenic spot. The North County Trailway, built on a former rail line, passes by old railway depots and Revolutionary War monuments. The Pine Bridge Monument is also a point of interest.

Parking is generally available at trailheads and access points for larger parks and trail systems. For instance, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers parking facilities. When planning your ride, check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information, such as for the Old Croton Dam Road Bridge – New Croton Dam loop from Donald J. Trump State Park – French Hill Section.

Mount Kisco is served by Metro-North Railroad, making it accessible by public transport. From the town, you can connect to various local roads and trail systems. The North County Trailway is particularly well-connected and can be accessed from several points, potentially linking you to unpaved sections or other gravel routes.

Generally, permits are not required for gravel biking on public roads and multi-use trails in the Mount Kisco area. However, for specific parks or private lands, it's always advisable to check their official websites for any particular regulations or entry fees. For example, Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is a Westchester County Park, and you can find more information on their official website: westchestercountyny.gov.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for gravel biking in Mount Kisco. Spring brings lush greenery, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summers are warm but can be humid. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures, potential snow, and icy conditions, which can make some gravel roads challenging.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, the challenge of the elevation gains, and the scenic beauty of the reservoirs and expansive parklands. Many appreciate the mix of unpaved roads and multi-use paths that provide varied experiences.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Mount Kisco are designed as loops, allowing for a continuous ride back to your starting point. Examples include the Cross River reservoir dam – Cross River Reservoir loop from Mianus River Gorge Preserve and the Cross River reservoir dam – Cross River Reservoir loop from Town of Bedford, which both offer extensive circular routes exploring the reservoir area.