These are my favorite loops in all of New York so far.

The Loops

I’ve ridden this route so many times and keep coming back for more. It’s just downright beautiful. Not super difficult to get out there from the city, traffic on the way isn’t terrible (unless it’s leaf peeping season) and good options for food.

You’ve got two options in terms of loops; there is a 80 mile loop and a longer 127 mile ride. I’ve done both in the same day but you do get tired. Most of the road is pretty twisty. Good problem to have, yeah?

Couple of things to keep in mind:

1. Once you’re on the backroads, there is very little traffic but be careful; some sections are tighter than others.

2. Fuel is sparse. I usually fill up at Teta’s (get their roast beef & cheese sandwich) or the Valero at the 55/44 intersection.

3. Food options are plenty but I’d recommend Mountain Brauhaus (great German food but make sure you have time to sit down & wait), Arrowood (although they’re now using outsourced chefs so YMMV), or Teta’s (quick stop w/ fuel and great sandwiches)

4. A lot of the route is canopied. Early mornings can be dangerous after a rain so watch for wetness & debris. Early & late season rides on this road could be a bit rough from gravel, etc so take care.

5. There are two hairpins and you can easily go wide on both. Take care and pay attention.

I’ve learned a thing or two about the anatomy of a good route:

1. Twists are awesome, no doubt, but here’s the thing: Highways are a must. They give you a change of pace when you need it. You get to control your speed on highways. Plus, they’re the bridge between your destinations, helping you stay focused on what you’re really out there to do. Highways might not be where you’re headed, but they sure get you there quicker.

2. Take breaks often. Pull over at all the gas stations. Okay, maybe not every single one, but make it a point to stop regularly, especially if your bike isn’t built for long hauls. Stopping every 60-80 miles for a few minutes works for me.

3. This is not a ride for a large group. I’d do like 6, 7 bikes TOPS. Some of these roads are fairly narrow and you’ll want the space. If you’re using comms on your ride, a long bike procession will mean that the leader can’t talk to the rear.

4. The twists below Ashokan Reservoir are canopied so take it easy for the first mile or so and pay attention to leaves & wet patches. If it rained the night before and you’re out in the AM, take extra care.

👉️ Calimoto & .GPX Download Links 🔗 

Click on the Calimoto link or download the .GPX file below (must have a Premium Subscription) for a full waypoint by waypoint route.

Open it in Calimoto on your phone to follow the whole route turn-by-turn.

I’ve tried numerous waypoint apps (Apple Maps, Google Maps, Rever, Detecht, etc) and Calimoto is by far my favorite and easiest to use.