The best traffic-free bike rides in Yellowwood State Forest

There are 17 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Yellowwood State Forest, offering a variety of experiences away from busy roads. These routes range from easy to difficult, ensuring options for different skill levels.

The spring and fall seasons are generally ideal for touring cycling in Yellowwood State Forest. The weather is milder, and the natural scenery, especially the fall foliage, is spectacular. During hunting season, wearing bright colors is recommended due to hunting activities in the area. Always check for trail closures due to timber harvest or storm salvage work before you go.

Yes, Yellowwood State Forest offers several easier routes suitable for families or beginners. For example, the Weed Patch Hill Fire Tower – Weed Patch Hill loop from Brown County State Park is rated as easy. The Ogle Hollow Nature Preserve loop also provides an easy, mostly paved option, perfect for a relaxed ride.

The terrain in Yellowwood State Forest is characterized by unglaciated topography, featuring narrow ridges, steep slopes, and numerous drainages. While many touring routes offer mostly paved surfaces, some segments can involve unpaved sections and significant elevation gains, requiring good to very good fitness. The forest provides a rugged and serene experience.

Yes, the forest is rich in natural beauty. Many routes will take you past the picturesque 133-acre Yellowwood Lake, a focal point for scenic views. You might also encounter areas near High King Hill, which offers scenic vistas. The forest's diverse landscape includes Crooked Creek Lake and Bear Lake, providing additional points of interest.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, backcountry feel of Yellowwood State Forest, offering a more solitary experience compared to busier parks. The diverse landscapes and the opportunity for peaceful rides away from traffic are frequently highlighted.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Hurley Hill – Wilkerson Hill loop from Hurley Hill offer a substantial distance of over 34 km with notable elevation gain. While primarily touring routes, some sections within the forest can be demanding due to unpaved surfaces and steep climbs, appealing to those with good fitness.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes in Yellowwood State Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Yellowwood Lake loop from High King Hill and the Yellowwood State Forest – Yellowwood Lake loop from Needmore, providing convenient options for your ride.

While this guide focuses on touring cycling routes, it's important to note that if you venture onto trails rated above beginner, particularly mountain biking trails like the Crooked Creek Loop, an Indiana DNR Off-Road Cycling Permit is required. Always check the specific requirements for the trails you plan to ride.

Yellowwood State Forest offers various parking areas throughout its expanse. Specific parking locations will depend on your chosen starting point for a route. Generally, you can find parking near popular access points like Yellowwood Lake or other designated trailheads within the forest. For more general information about the area, you can visit Visit Bloomington.

Yellowwood State Forest is home to diverse wildlife. Cycling quietly on the no-traffic routes increases your chances of spotting deer, various bird species, and other forest inhabitants. The serene environment away from vehicle noise makes it an excellent place for wildlife observation.