Henry Hudson Bike Trail

Henry Hudson Bike Trail

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Henry Hudson Bike Trail

Road cycling

5.0

(21)

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Location: Union Beach, Monmouth County, New Jersey, United States

Tips

September 16, 2024

Road cycling

The Henry Hudson Bike Trail is a 24-mile paved path that follows a former railroad route, offering a relatively flat ride through both natural and man-made environments. The tree-lined trail passes wetlands, streams, woods, and fields. The northern section runs parallel to Route 36 from Aberdeen to the Atlantic Highlands Marina, ending at Popamora Point. Another section runs from Freehold to Matawan, with future plans to connect the two. This diverse trail, part of the National Rails-to-Trails Network is an awesome spot for a ride, and is family friendly.

Chloé Perceval

May 11, 2022

Road cycling

This is a beautiful bike path passing though wetlands, fields, and wooded areas.

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Nearby routes

Best routes near Henry Hudson Bike Trail

4.3

(8)

riders

#1.

Henry Hudson Trail

31.0km

01:14

60m

The Henry Hudson Trail offers a delightful road cycling experience, winding through a varied landscape of wetlands, streams, and shady forests. As you pedal, you'll enjoy scenic views of Sandy Hook Bay, and on clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the New York City skyline. This route is predominantly paved and flat, making it an excellent choice for a relaxed outing, though you should watch for occasional pavement flaws from tree roots.

Planning your visit is simple, with parking available at multiple points along the trail for easy access. The route is considered easy, covering 19.3 miles (31.0 km) with only 193 feet (59 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete. Remember to exercise caution at frequent street crossings, some of which are on busy roads.

As a significant part of the Monmouth County Park System and a former railroad right-of-way, the Henry Hudson Trail connects diverse environments, from serene natural settings to vibrant waterfront towns like Atlantic Highlands. It's a popular choice for family friendly road cycling and beginner road bike routes, offering a pleasant journey through New Jersey's coastal region.

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Easy

4.8

(4)

riders

#2.

Henry Hudson Trail and Sandy Hook Loop

83.1km

03:36

200m

190m

The Henry Hudson Trail and Sandy Hook Loop offers a fantastic road cycling experience, blending coastal beauty with historical sites. You'll pedal through diverse scenery, from the wetlands and tree-lined sections of the Henry Hudson Trail to the stunning ocean views along the Sandy Hook Multi-Use Path. Keep an eye out for the iconic Sandy Hook Lighthouse and the distant New York City skyline as you enjoy the mostly flat, paved surfaces.

This moderate 51.6-mile (83.1 km) route, with a gentle 640 feet (195 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 36 minutes to complete. While the Henry Hudson Trail is a paved rail-trail, be prepared for some on-road sections and street crossings, especially when connecting to Sandy Hook near the Highlands–Sea Bright Bridge. Bicycle admission to Sandy Hook is free, making it an accessible option for a longer ride.

Part of the National Rails-to-Trails Network, the Henry Hudson Trail follows a former railroad corridor, offering a unique historical context. The Sandy Hook section, nestled within the Gateway National Recreation Area, is particularly rich in history, featuring historic military installations like Fort Hancock and Nike missile sites. This route is ideal for cyclists seeking a substantial ride with varied landscapes and a touch of local heritage.

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Moderate

5.0

(1)

riders

#3.