The best traffic-free bike rides in Lincoln Mountain State Forest

This guide features a selection of five dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes within and around Lincoln Mountain State Forest. These routes offer a range of experiences, from easy, shorter rides to more moderate, longer excursions.

The routes in and around Lincoln Mountain State Forest traverse varied terrain. You'll encounter mixed hardwoods and conifers, some hilly sections, and areas near ponds and wetlands. While some routes utilize paved paths, others may follow old logging roads, offering a more rugged, natural surface suitable for touring bikes.

Yes, for those seeking an easier ride, the New York State Military Museum loop from West Parking Lot is an excellent choice. It's classified as easy, covering approximately 20 km with minimal elevation gain. Another easy option is the Orenda Spring – The Geyser Island Spouter loop from Saratoga Springs, which is about 19 km long.

Absolutely. Many of the routes provided are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Hadley Parabolic Bridge – Lake Luzerne loop from Town of Corinth and the Lake Elizabeth – Tupelo Community Forest loop from Saratoga Springs are both excellent circular options for touring cyclists.

Lincoln Mountain State Forest is known for its diverse natural beauty. You can expect to see varied forest types, including old-growth trees like the 800-year-old Black Tupelos in a swamp. The area also features serene water elements such as ponds, wetlands, and creeks, contributing to a tranquil cycling experience. Keep an eye out for local wildlife in this quiet, secluded environment.

Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling. The diverse forest landscape changes beautifully with the seasons, from lush greens in summer to vibrant foliage in autumn. While some logging roads might be accessible in winter, the primary focus of these routes is on warmer-weather cycling when conditions are most favorable.

Yes, for a more extensive challenge, consider the Zim Smith Trail – Orenda Spring loop from Saratoga Springs. This route is classified as difficult, spanning nearly 90 km with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding experience for seasoned touring cyclists.

Parking availability varies by route. Many routes starting from towns like Saratoga Springs or Corinth will have public parking options. For routes deeper within the forest or on less developed roads, access points like Greene Rd. and Cohen Rd. are mentioned as entry points for trails, suggesting potential parking areas, though specific touring bike parking facilities might be limited to general trail access points.

For families, the easier routes are generally more suitable. The New York State Military Museum loop from West Parking Lot and the Orenda Spring – The Geyser Island Spouter loop from Saratoga Springs offer shorter distances and less challenging terrain, making them good options for a family outing. Always check the route details for specific difficulty and surface type to ensure it matches your family's abilities.

While Lincoln Mountain State Forest is generally dog-friendly for activities like hiking, specific regulations for dogs on cycling trails can vary. It's always best to keep dogs on a leash and ensure they are well-behaved around other trail users. Check local signage or the official forest guidelines for any specific restrictions on cycling routes before you go.

The routes are designed to be traffic-free, which means they can include a mix of surfaces. You might encounter paved paths, gravel paths, or even compacted dirt on old logging roads. While suitable for touring bikes, be prepared for varied conditions, especially after rain, as some natural surfaces can become softer or muddier.

While Lincoln Mountain State Forest itself is a secluded natural area, routes starting or passing through nearby towns like Saratoga Springs or Corinth will offer access to cafes, pubs, and other amenities. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for longer routes that venture deeper into the forest where services are not readily available.