Scenic Road Trip from Dunkirk, MD to New London, CT Avoiding NYC with Hiking & Biking Stops

Day 1: Drive & Explore New London

New London, CT on June 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Dunkirk Diner

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Dunkirk Diner, known for freshly made coffee, classic breakfast plates like eggs and pancakes, and quick service to fuel your long drive.

USD15, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to New London, CT via I-95 and US-1

Head northeast avoiding NYC by taking I-95 north to exit 76 in CT, then US-1 to New London. The drive is approximately 4.5 hours without traffic; enjoy scenic coastal views along the way.

USD30 (tolls + fuel estimate), 4h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Wreck Bar & Grill

Enjoy fresh seafood and casual dining at The Wreck, right by the waterfront in New London, known for clam chowder and lobster rolls.

USD25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Connecticut College Arboretum

Explore beautifully maintained gardens and walking trails at the Arboretum, open daily from dawn to dusk, providing an excellent spot to stretch your legs and enjoy nature.

Free, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk around Ocean Beach Park

Relax and take a stroll on the beach boardwalk and enjoy panoramic views of the Long Island Sound. Open daily, no entry fee.

Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Brewster's Seafood Restaurant

Dine on fresh Connecticut seafood dishes featuring local catch with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel.

USD40, 1h30m

7:00pm

Check-in at local hotel

Rest overnight in New London to prepare for your return journey with outdoor activities.

USD120, Overnight

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Day 2: Hudson Valley Hiking

Hudson Valley, NY on June 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or local cafe

Enjoy a quick, energizing breakfast at your hotel or nearby cafe before heading to Hudson Valley for hiking.

USD15, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive from New London, CT to Hudson Valley, NY

Travel west about 2.5 hours to the scenic Hudson Valley region known for its beautiful trails and mountain views, avoiding major NYC traffic.

USD20 (fuel estimate), 2h30m

11:30am

Hike at Mohonk Preserve - Labyrinth and Lemon Squeeze Trail

Enjoy a moderate 3-mile hike with stunning rock formations and views of the Shawangunk Ridge, open 7 am to sunset. Entry fee applies.

USD15, 2h0m

1:30pm

Picnic lunch at Mohonk Preserve picnic areas

Bring or buy a packed lunch to enjoy in beautiful natural surroundings at the preserve's picnic areas.

USD15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Drive to local mountain biking trails - Minnewaska State Park

Short 20-minute drive to nearby Minnewaska for afternoon mountain biking on scenic trails suitable for various skill levels.

USD10 parking fee, 0h20m

3:00pm

Mountain bike at Minnewaska State Park

Explore well-maintained mountain bike trails surrounded by lakes and cliffs. Park is open dawn to dusk; bikes must be rented or bring your own.

USD20 bike rental (optional), 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Gunkhouse Farm Brewery

Enjoy farm-to-table meals and craft brews in a relaxed setting close to the trails.

USD35, 1h30m

6:30pm

Overnight stay at local inn in Hudson Valley

Rest overnight nearby to prepare for the next day of travel and hiking.

USD130, Overnight

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Day 3: Delaware Water Gap Hiking & Biking

Delaware Water Gap, PA on June 21, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at inn or nearby cafe

Fuel up early before the day's outdoor adventure with a fresh breakfast offering local flavors.

USD15, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive Hudson Valley, NY to Delaware Water Gap, PA

Head southwest for about 3 hours to reach Delaware Water Gap, a premier hiking and mountain biking destination along the PA-NJ border.

USD25 (fuel estimate), 3h0m

11:00am

Hiking at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area - Mount Tammany Trail

Tackle this moderate 3.5-mile out-and-back trail offering breathtaking views of the Delaware River and surrounding mountains; trail open sunrise to sunset.

Free, 2h30m