The best cycling routes in Onondaga County

You can find over 30 touring cycling routes in Onondaga County, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes have been explored by more than 300 touring cyclists using komoot.

The touring cycling routes in Onondaga County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 25 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic views, the well-maintained paths, and the diverse landscapes, from historic canal trails to glacial lakes.

Yes, Onondaga County offers many family-friendly routes, particularly along the Erie Canalway Trail and around Onondaga Lake. These paths are generally flat with paved or crushed stone surfaces, making them suitable for all ages. An excellent option is the Onodaga Lake (East Shore) – Willow Bay loop from Village of Liverpool, which is easy and offers beautiful lake views.

Beginner touring cyclists will find many easy routes in Onondaga County. The majority of routes, 18 out of 30, are classified as easy. The Erie Canalway Trail: DeWitt to Chittenango is a great choice, offering a flat, scenic ride along the historic canal. Another option is the Erie Canalway Trail (Syracuse to Dewitt), which is also easy and mostly off-road.

Yes, Onondaga County features several enjoyable circular routes. The Onondaga Creekwalk and Loop the Lake Trail is a popular 21.2-mile loop that connects urban areas with scenic Onondaga Lake. Another great option is the Erie Canalway Trail loop from Green Lakes State Park, which takes you through the beautiful area surrounding Green Lakes State Park.

Onondaga County's routes offer views of diverse natural features and landmarks. You can cycle past unique glacial lakes like Green Lake and Glacier Lake within Green Lakes State Park. The historic Erie Canalway Trail itself is a landmark, featuring structures like the Limestone Creek Aqueduct. Many routes also offer scenic views of Onondaga Lake.

The best time for touring cycling in Onondaga County is typically from spring through fall, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is vibrant. The Erie Canalway Trail is particularly pleasant during these seasons. While some trails might be accessible in winter, conditions can vary, and specific winter gear might be necessary.

While many routes are easy, Onondaga County does offer options for more experienced touring cyclists. There are 11 moderate routes and 1 difficult route. For a longer, more challenging ride with varied terrain, consider the Onondaga Lake (West Shore) – Newport Road Trail loop from Village of Camillus, which is classified as difficult and covers over 50 miles.

Many popular cycling areas in Onondaga County, such as Green Lakes State Park, Onondaga Lake Park, and various access points along the Erie Canalway Trail, offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific park websites or route descriptions for detailed parking information before your ride.

Yes, some touring cycling routes in Onondaga County, particularly those connecting to urban centers like Syracuse, are accessible via public transport. The Onondaga Creekwalk, for instance, runs through downtown Syracuse and connects to the Erie Canalway Trail, making it reachable by local bus services. Check local transit schedules for routes that accommodate bicycles.

While not directly on all cycling routes, Onondaga County is home to scenic waterfalls like Pratt's Falls and Chittenango Falls. Some routes, particularly those near Green Lakes State Park, might offer connections or detours to areas where you can explore these natural attractions. Always check the specific route details for nearby points of interest.

Yes, Onondaga County's landscape includes extensive woodlands. Routes like the Bike loop from Moon Hill Reforestation Area offer a more forested cycling experience. Additionally, areas around Green Lakes State Park and Highland Forest provide wooded trails, some of which are suitable for touring bikes.