The best gravel rides in Sullivan County

Sullivan County offers a diverse range of landscapes for gravel biking. You'll find yourself amidst the picturesque Catskill Mountains, providing lush forests and elevated views. Many routes also follow significant waterways like the Delaware River, with smaller creeks such as Ketchum Creek and Kettle Creek adding to the natural beauty. Extensive forested lands and wetlands contribute to varied terrain and shaded paths.

Yes, the Sullivan O&W Rail Trail is a significant draw for cyclists, utilizing a former railway line that spans 50 miles through the heart of Sullivan County. These former railroad beds offer gentle grades, making them ideal for gravel biking and exploring the county's natural beauty and history. Specific sections, like the Hurleyville Rail Trail, are known for their smooth, multi-surface paths.

The gravel bike routes featured in this guide are generally considered moderate in difficulty. They offer a good balance of challenge and accessibility, suitable for riders looking for engaging rides without extreme technical demands. The diverse terrain, from gentle rail trails to more undulating county roads, ensures a varied experience.

Sullivan County is rich in natural beauty. You might encounter unique geological formations like "The Haystacks" or "Devils Garden." Water features such as Bays Mountain Reservoir and Steele Creek Lake offer scenic spots. Additionally, areas like Warriors' Path State Park provide extensive forested lands to explore.

Yes, several loop routes are available, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. For example, you can explore the Fort Watauga – Tweetsie Trail loop from Johnson City, the Damascus City Park – Holston River Confluence loop from Damascus, or the Damascus City Park loop from Garden. These offer convenient options for a full day's adventure.

The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in Sullivan County, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, the scenic beauty along rivers and through forests, and the well-maintained rail trails that offer accessible and enjoyable rides. The mix of challenging climbs and gentle paths is also frequently highlighted.

Beyond dedicated trails, many county roads in Sullivan County are well-suited for gravel biking. Roads like J Young Road and Conklin Hill Road in Livingston Manor are known among gravel enthusiasts. The county offers routes through varying terrain, from flat sections to climbs, allowing riders to experience different aspects of the landscape, including areas near Lumberland, Tusten, and Bethel.

Sullivan County features several parks that offer excellent gravel biking opportunities. Walnut Mountain Park in Liberty provides scenic trails, and Lake Superior State Park is another prominent water feature with recreational options. Many of these parks, along with over 2100 acres of undeveloped land, feature accessible trails through forests, fields, and wetlands. For more information on local parks, you can visit the Sullivan County Parks and Recreation website.

While specific historical points directly on the featured routes are not detailed, Sullivan County is home to historic covered bridges and historical parks like Minisink Battleground Park and Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History. Exploring routes near these areas can add a cultural dimension to your ride. The O&W Rail Trail itself is a historical landmark, following a former railway line.

The gravel bike routes in Sullivan County vary in length to suit different preferences. For example, the C&O Depot – Johnson City loop from Johnson City is around 20.7 km, while the Damascus City Park loop from Alvarado covers about 22 km. Other routes, like the Damascus City Park – Holston River Confluence loop from Damascus, extend to nearly 38 km, offering options for shorter excursions or longer adventures.

While specific cafes are not listed directly on the routes, Sullivan County has various towns and communities that offer amenities. For instance, The Original Ridgewood Barbecue is a notable spot. Many routes pass through or near towns where you can find local eateries and places to refuel. It's always a good idea to check local listings for specific options along your chosen route.