The best MTB trails in Onondaga County

Onondaga County offers a diverse network of over 10 mountain bike trails, catering to various skill levels. The majority of these, 9 out of 10, are rated as easy, with one moderate trail for those seeking a bit more challenge.

You'll find a wide variety of terrain, from challenging singletrack and flowy downhill sections in areas like Morgan Hill State Forest and Skytop Quarry, to scenic paths, country roads, and backwoods adventures in Highland Forest. The Erie Canalway Trail offers hard-packed gravel and paved sections, ideal for a smoother ride.

Yes, Onondaga County is very welcoming to beginners. Duguid Park is an excellent starting point with beginner to intermediate trails and a pump track. Great Bear Recreational Area also offers singletrack and doubletrack suitable for beginner to intermediate riders. Many of the trails, like the Morgan Hill State Forest – Morgan Hill loop from Shackham Pond, are rated as easy.

For more challenging rides, Morgan Hill State Forest offers routes requiring very good fitness and advanced skills, including a flowy downhill groomed trail with berms. Skytop Quarry also provides intermediate to advanced XC singletrack, flow lines, and jump lines. The Limestone Creek – Erie Canalway Trail loop from Village of Fayetteville is a moderate trail that provides a good workout.

Absolutely. The region is known for its unique glacial lakes and historic waterways. You can ride along the Erie Canalway Trail, which offers scenic views of the canal. Green Lakes State Park features trails around its striking turquoise glacial lakes, such as Green Lake and Glacier Lake. Morgan Hill State Forest, the highest point in Onondaga County, also provides expansive views.

Yes, many trails are family-friendly. Green Lakes State Park has trails suitable for beginner to intermediate levels, including stroller-friendly paths around its lakes. The Erie Canalway Trail, with its hard-packed gravel and paved sections, is suitable for all ages and abilities. Duguid Park is also a great option for families with its beginner trails and pump track.

While specific regulations can vary by park or forest, many natural areas in Onondaga County, such as Morgan Hill State Forest and Great Bear Recreational Area, generally permit dogs on trails, often requiring them to be leashed. It's always best to check the specific rules for each location before you go.

The prime mountain biking season typically runs from spring through fall. Highland Forest trails, for example, are usually open from May 1 to September 30. Morgan Hill State Forest is also recognized for its winter fat biking routes, offering opportunities for year-round riding depending on conditions and equipment.

Most public trails in state forests and parks do not require specific mountain biking permits, though some parks may have entrance fees (e.g., Green Lakes State Park). E-bikes are generally not permitted on mountain biking trails in Highland Forest. Always check local signage and park websites for the most current regulations before your ride.

Most major mountain biking destinations like Morgan Hill State Forest, Highland Forest, Green Lakes State Park, Duguid Park, and Great Bear Recreational Area offer designated parking areas. Access points along the Erie Canalway Trail also typically have parking available. It's advisable to check specific trailheads for parking information.

The mountain biking routes in Onondaga County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 1 review. Over 70 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse options from easy to challenging, and the scenic beauty of the region's forests and lakes.

Yes, the region is rich in natural and historical landmarks. You can ride past the Limestone Creek Aqueduct along the Erie Canalway Trail. Green Lakes State Park is home to rare meromictic lakes, Green Lake and Round Lake, known for their distinct turquoise waters. Morgan Hill, the highest point in the county, offers significant elevation and views.