The best traffic-free bike rides around Millerton

There are over two dozen dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Millerton, offering a variety of experiences for different fitness levels. You'll find 5 easy routes, 17 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options.

Millerton is celebrated for its diverse landscapes and scenic, low-traffic country roads. The region offers a mix of dedicated paved trails, like the Harlem Valley Rail Trail, and quiet rural roads with minimal vehicle traffic, providing a peaceful and immersive cycling experience through picturesque countryside.

Yes, the area offers several easy routes. A great option is the Rail trail bridge loop from Village of Millerton, which is approximately 20 km with minimal elevation gain. The Harlem Valley Rail Trail itself is an excellent, level, asphalt-paved path, perfect for a relaxed, traffic-free ride.

For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Sawchuck Hill Climb loop from Village of Millerton offer significant elevation gain over its 68 km. Other routes, such as variations around Rudd Pond, can extend up to 65 km with nearly 600m of climbing, requiring good fitness.

You'll primarily find well-paved surfaces. The Harlem Valley Rail Trail is asphalt, providing a smooth ride. Many of the country roads are also well-paved, though they typically lack shoulders. Expect varying elevations, from flat sections on the rail trail to rolling hills and climbs on other routes.

Many routes offer scenic views of the Taconic Ridge and pass by charming farms. You might encounter Rudd Pond within Taconic State Park, known for its picturesque views. Merwin Road, north of the village, is particularly noted for its scenic vistas with minimal traffic. The region's rural charm and diverse habitats along the Harlem Valley Rail Trail also provide opportunities for wildlife observation.

The Harlem Valley Rail Trail has an almost 26-mile uninterrupted section that connects from the Wassaic Train Station, which can be accessed via Metro-North Railroad. This provides a convenient public transport option to start your traffic-free cycling adventure.

Parking is generally available at various access points for the Harlem Valley Rail Trail, including near the Village of Millerton. For other country road routes, specific trailhead parking might be available, or you can often find parking within the Village of Millerton itself.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in Millerton, with an average score of 4.25 out of 5 stars. Cyclists often praise the quiet, scenic country roads and the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the Harlem Valley Rail Trail, making it an ideal destination for a relaxed yet engaging ride.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Roadbike loop from Village of Millerton is a moderate 44 km circular route, and the Sawchuck Hill Climb loop is another longer circular option.

Millerton offers enjoyable cycling experiences across multiple seasons. Spring and fall typically provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.