The best traffic-free bike rides in High Point State Park

High Point State Park offers a selection of 6 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes. These routes range in difficulty, ensuring options for various skill levels.

You can expect a diverse terrain, from routes winding through dense forests and mountain ridgetops to paths near wetlands. While many routes feature paved surfaces, some sections may include well-maintained gravel, especially on older carriage roads. The park's location on the Kittatinny Ridge provides varied elevation changes and scenic vistas.

Yes, there is at least one easy no traffic touring cycling route suitable for beginners and families. The Sawmill Dam Waterfall loop from High Point State Park is an excellent option, offering a shorter, less challenging ride through natural landscapes.

Many routes offer stunning views. A key attraction is the High Point Monument, which provides a spectacular panorama of rich farmland, forests, and valleys spanning three states. You might also pass by Lake Marcia, a spring-fed lake perfect for a refreshing stop, or the unique Atlantic white cedar swamp. Some routes, like the Sawmill Dam Waterfall loop from Red Barn Pond, feature scenic waterfalls.

The park is beautiful year-round, but spring and fall are particularly popular. Spring offers lush greenery and pleasant temperatures, while fall is renowned for its spectacular fall foliage, making for incredibly scenic rides. Summer is also great, especially if you plan to combine your ride with a swim in Lake Marcia.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Sawmill Dam Waterfall loop from Red Barn Pond and the Huguenot Hill loop from City of Port Jervis, offering varied distances and difficulties.

High Point State Park offers various access points and parking facilities. For routes starting within the park, designated parking areas are available. For routes that begin outside the immediate park boundaries, such as those originating from nearby towns, local parking options should be considered. Always check specific route details for recommended starting points and parking.

The routes in High Point State Park cater to a range of abilities. Out of the 6 available routes, 1 is rated as easy, and 5 are rated as moderate. This means you'll find options for a relaxed ride as well as more challenging tours with significant elevation gains, such as the Bike loop from West End.

Yes, roads like Sawmill Road and Ridge Road are popular for scenic rides within the park, often used for organized events like fall foliage bike rides. Additionally, parts of the park utilize old carriage roads, which can be suitable for touring bikes, especially those with wider tires, offering a historic and scenic alternative to paved roads.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in High Point State Park, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's stunning natural beauty, the quiet and traffic-free nature of the routes, and the diverse landscapes that offer golden vistas and refreshing stops like Lake Marcia.

Yes, if you're looking for a more challenging ride with significant elevation gain, routes like the Huguenot Hill loop from City of Port Jervis, with over 400 meters of ascent, or the Bike loop from West End, with over 360 meters of ascent, provide a good workout amidst beautiful scenery.