The best MTB trails in Putnam County

Putnam County offers a network of over 20 mountain bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 9 easy and 13 moderate options available for exploration.

Mountain bike trails in Putnam County feature a diverse landscape of forested hills, state parks, and numerous lakes. You'll encounter rolling terrain, often winding through dense woodlands and along the shores of bodies of water like Lake Windwing. Elevations are generally under 200 meters, providing a mix of accessible and engaging rides.

Yes, Putnam County has several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners. An excellent option is the Moneyhole Mountain Loop, an 8.1-mile route featuring varied forest terrain and gentle ascents. Another easy choice is the Lake Windwing – Great Viewpoint loop from Seth Low Pierrepont State Park Reserve, which offers scenic views over Lake Windwing.

For riders looking for a bit more challenge, Putnam County offers moderate trails. The Pine Mountain – Bennett's Pond loop from Ridgebury is a 9.3-mile route leading through pine forests and past Bennett's Pond, offering a good moderate ride. Another moderate option is the Lounsbury Pond – Blue Mountain Summit Trail loop from City of Peekskill.

The trails in Putnam County generally feature rolling terrain with moderate elevation changes. For example, the Pine Mountain – Bennett's Pond loop has an elevation gain of approximately 323 meters, while the Lake Windwing – Great Viewpoint loop involves around 280 meters of ascent. Most routes have elevations generally under 200 meters, making them accessible.

Yes, many of the easy trails in Putnam County are suitable for families. Routes like the Moneyhole Mountain Loop or the various Lake Windwing loops offer gentle ascents and scenic, less technical paths, making them enjoyable for riders of different ages and skill levels.

Dog policies can vary between different parks and trail systems within Putnam County. While some areas may permit dogs on leash, others might have restrictions. It's always best to check the specific regulations of the state park or forest you plan to visit, such as Fahnestock State Park or Ninham Mountain State Forest, before heading out with your canine companion.

Putnam County offers several scenic spots. You can find stunning views of the Hudson River from Breakneck Ridge or the Breakneck Ridge Lookout. Other notable points include Bull Hill (Mount Taurus) Summit and Mount Nimham. The Lake Windwing – Great Viewpoint loop also offers picturesque views of the lake.

Parking is generally available at designated trailheads and state park entrances throughout Putnam County. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the tour details on komoot, as many tours start from locations with established parking facilities, such as Seth Low Pierrepont State Park Reserve.

While some areas in Putnam County, like the vicinity of the Putnam County Trailway or Fahnestock State Park, might have limited public transport access, direct connections to specific mountain bike trailheads can be infrequent. It's recommended to research local bus schedules or train services to nearby towns like Cold Spring (which has a railway station) and plan accordingly, as a final leg by car or taxi might be necessary.

The mountain bike trails in Putnam County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse forested terrain, the serene lake views, and the variety of easy and moderate routes that cater to different skill levels, making it an enjoyable destination for many.

The best time for mountain biking in Putnam County is typically from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant, and the trails are in good condition. Fall offers particularly scenic rides with vibrant foliage. Winter riding is possible but requires checking trail conditions for snow and ice.