Onondaga Lake – Onondaga Lake (West Shore) loop from Syracuse

If you're looking for a relaxed touring bicycle ride with scenic views and minimal effort, the Onondaga Lake – Onondaga Lake (West Shore) loop from Syracuse is an excellent choice. This easy 12.6-mile (20.3 km) route, with just 275 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 12 minutes, making it perfect for a casual outing or family friendly cycling. It's an ideal pick when you want high reward for low effort.

What to expect on Onondaga Lake – Onondaga Lake (West Shore) loop from Syracuse

As you cycle this route, you'll experience diverse scenery, from meandering through woodlands to open areas offering spectacular viewpoints of Onondaga Lake and the Syracuse cityscape. The Onondaga Lake cycling terrain is predominantly flat and paved, making it a smooth ride. You'll pass by Willow Bay, historical markers, and even directly through the Empower FCU Amphitheater. While some sections might have trees obscuring the lake, the overall experience is easy and suitable for touring cyclists of all fitness levels, especially those on road bikes.

Planning your visit

Planning your visit to the Onondaga Lake West Shore bike trail is straightforward, as there are multiple access points and parking areas around Onondaga Lake Park, and no permits or entrance fees are required. While the West Shore Trail isn't plowed in winter, the East Shore Recreation Trail is, so consider the best time to cycle Onondaga Lake Syracuse based on seasonal conditions. Benches and shelters are available along the route for convenient breaks.

Trail details

• Distance: 12.6 miles (20.3 km)
• Elevation gain: 275 feet (84 metres)
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 12 minutes