The best traffic-free bike rides in Daketown State Forest
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No traffic touring cycling routes in Daketown State Forest offer opportunities to explore a diverse landscape. The 506-acre forest features a variety of tree species and historical remnants like rustic foundations and old property walls. While dedicated touring cycling within the immediate forest is limited to multi-use trails, the broader region around Daketown State Forest, particularly near Saratoga Springs, provides numerous road biking routes. These routes often feature well-paved surfaces, accommodating various fitness levels, and connect to the natural features…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
6
riders
19.5km
01:11
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
89.6km
05:18
470m
470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
80.5km
04:52
510m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Popular around Daketown State Forest
Tips from the Community
You can park here to start your ride, but note that parking spaces are limited, so it’s best to arrive early.
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This paved multi-use path takes you from Ballston Spa to Mechanicville via Round Lake and a handful of small parks. Here you bike under I-87 and pass some short gravel neighborhood trails.
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This is a cooperative agriculture place in the southwest corner of Saratoga Springs. It is a family friendly site where you can help with the crops or enjoy the festivities they celebrate to try and collect some money to help maintain the infrastructure. For more information visit: https://www.pitneymeadowscommunityfarm.org/
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Step off the bike to take a look at Hathorn 3 Spring. The Spring is a naturally carbonated spring that runs out of a historic stone well and spigot. Like all of the natural mineral springs in the park, you can drink from this one and perhaps experience the healing properties of the water!
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Jump off the bike to take a look at the Geyser Island. The Geyser Island Spouter is one of the best known and memorable features in Saratoga Springs State Park. This spouter (which is caused by natural carbonation in the water) is in the middle of Geyser Creek on a small island created by mineral build up. Although it is a little difficult to see, the tufa that the water shoots from is a deep rusty red due to the iron in the water. The spouter first appeared in the early 20th century and spurts water at a constant rate, making for a memorable sight! You cannot go to the island itself, but there is a great, wheelchair-accessible viewing platform where you can get excellent photographs of it.
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Polaris Spring is what is known as a "spouter spring"; a spring that shoots a small spout of water directly up out of the ground. It is one of the most popular spots for mineral water within the lower portion of the park.
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The Avenue of the Pines is the name of both a road and a paved trail that runs next to it in the Saratoga Spa State Park. Maintained by The Gideon Putnam, a luxury hotel and resort, this trail is groomed in the winter for snow-shoers and Nordic skiers for year-round enjoyment. This flat, scenic section of trail is lined with tall pine trees and is an amazing spot for photographs no matter the time of year.
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The Coesa Spring is a hidden gem and seldom visited in comparison to the rest of the springs in the park. In the 19th century the water from Cosea Spring was bottled and sold. There was also a drink hall where Victorian-era travelers would pull off the highway and stop to try the spring water. Starting in the spring of 2023, the Friends of Saratoga Spa State Park began a restoration project to revitalize the area. They hope to restore the old spring house, install a fountain that’s a replica of the original one, and provide interpretive signage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Daketown State Forest?
There are 4 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes featured in this guide for the Daketown State Forest area. These routes offer a variety of distances and experiences away from busy roads.
Are there any easy routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are routes suitable for those looking for an easier ride. For example, the Hathorn #3 Spring – Coesa Spouter loop from Town of Milton and the Orenda Spring – The Geyser Island Spouter loop from Saratoga Springs are both rated as easy, making them great choices for a relaxed outing or a family ride.
What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on these routes?
The routes in this guide vary. Easier routes like the Hathorn #3 Spring – Coesa Spouter loop feature gentle elevation changes, around 120 meters up and down over approximately 19.5 km. More challenging routes, such as the Orenda Spring – Hall of Springs loop from Saratoga Springs, can involve over 500 meters of elevation gain over longer distances, offering a more strenuous experience.
Are there any loop routes for touring cyclists?
Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This includes options like the Zim Smith Trail – Orenda Spring loop from Saratoga Springs, which is a longer, more challenging loop.
What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see along the way?
While cycling in the Daketown State Forest area, you'll encounter a diverse array of natural characteristics. The forest itself is home to a wide range of tree species, and you might discover rustic foundations and old property walls, offering glimpses into the area's past. The broader region is known for its natural springs, such as Hathorn Spring and Orenda Spring, which are often part of the route names.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while cycling?
Daketown State Forest provides opportunities for wildlife observation. Common sightings include whitetail deer, wild turkey, and various songbirds. You might also spot ruffed grouse, eastern coyote, and a variety of smaller mammals like squirrels and chipmunks. Occasional black bear sightings have also been reported in the area.
What is the best time of year to enjoy these no-traffic cycling routes?
The best time to enjoy touring cycling in the Daketown State Forest area is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months. Spring offers lush greenery, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Summer is also pleasant, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible but may require specialized gear and awareness of trail conditions.
Where can I find parking for these routes?
Many of these routes start from or pass through nearby Saratoga Springs, which offers various parking options. For specific trailheads or starting points within the Daketown State Forest area, it's advisable to check the individual route details on komoot for designated parking areas or nearby access points.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the cycling routes?
Given the proximity of many routes to Saratoga Springs, you'll find ample amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and lodging options. Saratoga Springs is a vibrant town with a wide selection of places to refuel and relax before or after your ride.
Can I access these routes using public transport?
While direct public transport to the heart of Daketown State Forest might be limited, Saratoga Springs, a common starting point for many routes, is generally accessible by public transport. From Saratoga Springs, you may need to cycle to the specific trailhead or starting point of your chosen route.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists looking for a longer challenge, routes like the Zim Smith Trail – Orenda Spring loop from Saratoga Springs offer significant distance (around 89 km) and elevation gain, providing a demanding yet rewarding no-traffic cycling experience.
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