The best MTB trails around Kingston

If you're seeking a mountain biking adventure that blends scenic beauty with varied terrain, the Onteora Lake – Onteora Lake Trail loop from Rock Oak Preserve is a fantastic choice. You'll navigate through tranquil mixed forests, enjoy views of Onteora Lake, and encounter old bluestone quarries, particularly along the Blue Hiking Trail. The trail offers a mix of doubletrack and rugged singletrack, with some sections featuring fun flow elements like jumps and berms.

This moderate 24.0-mile (38.6 km) route involves 1495 feet (456 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 3 hours and 24 minutes to complete. The trailhead at Rock Oak Preserve provides good access, and while the area is generally open, be mindful of hunting season from mid-November to mid-December. Summer rides can be quite buggy, so come prepared.

This interconnected trail system is a highlight for mountain biking in Ulster County, NY, offering options for different skill levels, though it's best suited for intermediate riders. The 2019 trail improvements significantly enhanced the experience, connecting the Onteora Lake and Jockey Hill systems. Keep an eye out for wildlife like white-tailed deer and beavers, especially near the lake and ponds.

The Nice old railway bridge with a view – Springtown Truss Bridge loop from Kingston offers a delightful mountain biking experience, guiding you across historic railway infrastructure and through picturesque landscapes. You'll traverse the well-maintained Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, enjoying its stone-dust surface, and marvel at the impressive Rosendale Trestle with its sweeping views. The route also features the iconic Springtown Truss Bridge, a historic iron structure crossing the Wallkill River, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and engineering marvels.

Planning your ride on this moderate 30.6-mile (49.3 km) loop, which typically takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete, requires a bit of foresight. With 906 feet (276 metres) of elevation gain, it's best suited for riders with good fitness. Be aware that the unpaved sections of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail can become muddy after rain, so a hybrid or mountain bike is essential for navigating the varied terrain. Parking is available in Kingston, and it's always a good idea to check local conditions before heading out.

This route is rich in history, showcasing the legacy of the Wallkill Valley Railway. Beyond the Springtown Truss Bridge, which even made an appearance in the movie "A Quiet Place," you'll encounter the Rosendale Trestle, another significant historic landmark. The trail also offers glimpses of the Huguenot Street Historic District in New Paltz and connects to the River-to-Ridge Trail, providing access to the scenic Shawangunk Ridge and views of the Catskill Mountains, making it one of the more popular routes for mountain biking in the Kingston NY area.

The Mountainbike loop from Stony Hollow offers a fantastic, flowy ride through the Sheldon Trails system at Stony Creek Metropark. You'll experience smooth, hard-packed singletrack winding through varied terrain, including small plateaus and deep ravines. Expect a mix of natural features like log crossings and man-made elements such as dirt jumps, all designed to keep your ride engaging and fun.

This easy 6.8-mile (10.9 km) mountain biking route features a modest 326 feet (99 metres) of elevation gain and can be completed in about 56 minutes. It's a great choice for beginner mountain biking at Stony Hollow, as all major obstacles have ride-arounds, allowing you to bypass challenging sections. Intermediate riders will also enjoy the fast, groomed sections and rewarding descents.

The trails are meticulously maintained by the Fellowship of the Wheel (FOTW), ensuring a high-quality experience. The system's design with multiple loops means you can easily customize your ride length and difficulty, making it a versatile option for various skill levels. Remember to share the trail respectfully with hikers, as different directions may be designated for each user type.

The Onteora Lake loop from Rock Oak Preserve offers a delightful mountain biking experience through a varied landscape of hemlock and oak forests. You'll encounter tranquil views of Onteora Lake and Pickerel Pond, with some sections featuring exposed bluestone slabs and even old quarries. It's a generally smooth ride, though some mini-hills add a bit of interest, making it an easy 6.7-mile (10.8 km) route with 326 feet (99 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 55 minutes.

To make the most of your visit, plan to start your ride from Rock Oak Preserve. Parking is usually available, but arriving earlier in the day, especially on busy weekends, is a good strategy to ensure you get a spot. The interconnected trail system means you can easily adjust your route length, and the area is particularly pleasant during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the scenery vibrant.

What sets this area apart is its blend of natural beauty and historical elements, particularly the abandoned bluestone quarries that add a unique geological touch to the ride. The diverse ecosystem, ranging from wetlands to rocky ledges, provides a rich environment where you might even spot local wildlife like white-tailed deer. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a scenic and accessible mountain biking adventure near Kingston and Woodstock.