The best MTB trails in Black Creek State Forest
5.0
(4)
42
riders
2
rides
Mountain biking in Black Creek State Forest offers a primitive forest setting characterized by hilly terrain, streams, and woodlands. The region features unpaved roads that can be used for exploration, with the Black Creek flowing through its northeastern section. This area provides a tranquil escape with diverse landscapes, including dense foliage and vibrant flora.
Best mountain bike trails in Black Creek State Forest
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Illinois Mountain and Berean Park loop, an easy 6.1…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4
riders
9.78km
00:58
250m
250m
This easy 6.1-mile mountain biking loop in Berean Park offers technical sections, scenic overlooks, and peaceful riding.
5.0
(4)
11
riders
30.2km
02:04
410m
410m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
riders
15.9km
01:10
120m
120m
This easy 9.9-mile mountain biking trail in New Paltz offers scenic views of farm fields and the Shawangunk Mountains.
9
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
28.3km
01:48
220m
220m
Mountain bike the easy Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, a 17.6-mile route offering scenic views, historic sites, and gentle terrain.
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Tips from the Community
The Rosendale Trestle Bridge, situated along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, is famous for providing a breathtaking view of the Rosendale area and the Roundout Creek. It's recommended to ride slowly across the bridge due to some boards needing maintenance.
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Berean Park is a lovely place to visit, with a beach on one of the ponds. There are various facilities, including picnic tables, a snack bar and bathroom facilities.
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The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail totals roughly 22 miles in one direction. The path follows an old railroad line and is primarily packed-gravel surface the entire time. This is a multiuse trail, so be prepared to see other users on the trail. This particular section travels from the northern terminus just outside of Kingston down to Joppenbergh Mountain Park. The Rosendale Trestle Bridge just to the south of Joppenbergh Mountain is one of the more scenic viewpoints along the entire Wallkill Valley Rail Trail.
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This is the part of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail which passes through New Paltz. The whole trail is approximately 22 miles in length and was the former Wallkill Valley Railroad. The railroad was closed in 1977 and the first section of trail opened in 1993. This is a multi-user trail, so please respect other trail users.
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The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail totals roughly 22 miles in one direction. The path follows an old railroad line and is primarily packed-gravel surface the entire time. This is a multiuse trail, so be prepared to see other users on the trail. This particular section travels from the northern terminus just outside of Kingston down to Joppenbergh Mountain Park. The Rosendale Trestle Bridge just to the south of Joppenbergh Mountain is one of the more scenic viewpoints along the entire Wallkill Valley Rail Trail.
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The Rosendale Trestle Bridge is a famous bridge crossing along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail between Joppenbergh Mountain Park and Hardenbergh Park. This wooden boards making the base of the bridge are a little weathered, so watch your footing as you cross.
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The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail totals roughly 22 miles in one direction. The path follows an old railroad line and is primarily packed-gravel surface the entire time. This is a multiuse trail, so be prepared to see other users on the trail. This particular section travels from the northern terminus just outside of Kingston down to Joppenbergh Mountain Park. The Rosendale Trestle Bridge just to the south of Joppenbergh Mountain is one of the more scenic viewpoints along the entire Wallkill Valley Rail Trail.
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The Springtown Truss Bridge crosses the Wallkill River. It was once part of the Wallkill Valley Railroad, running between Ulster County and New York city. The bridge was originally built in 1870 and made of wood, but was rebuilt using iron in the early 1880s.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Black Creek State Forest?
Black Creek State Forest offers a primitive forest setting with approximately 1.5 miles of unpaved roads suitable for mountain biking. Additionally, komoot features 5 routes in the area, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, that utilize these unpaved roads and surrounding terrain.
What are the typical difficulty levels for mountain biking in Black Creek State Forest?
The mountain bike routes in Black Creek State Forest are generally categorized as easy to moderate. For example, the Illinois Mountain and Berean Park loop is an easy ride, while the Duck Pond loop from Springtown presents a moderate challenge.
Are there any beginner-friendly mountain bike trails in Black Creek State Forest?
Yes, beginners can enjoy routes like the Illinois Mountain and Berean Park loop, which is an easy 6.1-mile trail. The unpaved roads within the forest also provide a good starting point for those new to mountain biking.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the mountain bike trails in Black Creek State Forest?
You can expect hilly, scenic terrain with streams, swamps, and ponds. The forest is characterized by dense woodlands, diverse landscapes, and vibrant flora, offering a tranquil and primitive riding experience on unpaved roads.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural features to look out for?
Black Creek State Forest is known for its hilly, scenic views and the Black Creek flowing through its northeastern section. You'll encounter diverse landscapes, including woodlands, dense foliage, and vibrant flora, providing a picturesque backdrop for your ride.
Are there any loop trails for mountain biking in Black Creek State Forest?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. Popular options include the easy Illinois Mountain and Berean Park loop, the moderate Duck Pond loop from Springtown, and the Kleinekill Pool – Duck Pond loop from Town of New Paltz.
Is Black Creek State Forest suitable for family-friendly mountain biking?
Given the primitive nature of the forest and the presence of easy routes like the Illinois Mountain and Berean Park loop, it can be suitable for families looking for a less technical ride on unpaved roads. However, always assess the specific route and your family's skill level.
Can I bring my dog mountain biking in Black Creek State Forest?
While the region research indicates that Black Creek State Forest in New York permits various recreational activities, specific regulations regarding dogs on mountain bike trails are not detailed. It's always best to check with local forest management for current pet policies before your visit.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy the most about Black Creek State Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 8 reviews. Riders often praise the tranquil, primitive forest setting, the diverse landscapes, and the opportunity to explore on unpaved roads.
Are there specific parking areas or trailheads for mountain biking?
Black Creek State Forest has approximately 1.5 miles of unpaved roads that can be used for exploration. While specific designated mountain bike trailheads are not maintained, access points to these unpaved roads would serve as starting points. It's advisable to consult local maps or forest service information for parking locations.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Black Creek State Forest?
The forest offers diverse landscapes and vibrant flora, suggesting pleasant riding conditions during spring, summer, and fall. However, given the primitive nature and unpaved roads, conditions can vary with weather. Winter mountain biking might be possible, but trails could be unmaintained and challenging due to snow or ice.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near Black Creek State Forest?
Black Creek State Forest offers a primitive forest experience, and information on nearby commercial establishments like cafes, pubs, or dedicated accommodation is not readily available for the immediate vicinity. Primitive camping is allowed within the forest, subject to specific regulations.
Most popular routes in Black Creek State Forest
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