Ringwood State Park – Shepherd Lake loop from Ringwood State Park
Ringwood State Park – Shepherd Lake loop from Ringwood State Park
3.5
(11)
21
riders
Ringwood State Park – Shepherd Lake loop from Ringwood State Park
02:23
25.8km
460m
Mountain biking
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Ringwood State Park
Ramapo Mountain State Forest
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
315 m
Ringwood State Park
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
2.88 km
Shepherd Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
3.09 km
Shepherd Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
10.4 km
Crossover Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
23.7 km
Glasmere Ponds
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
25.8 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
15.5 km
7.93 km
1.34 km
867 m
157 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
13.2 km
8.44 km
2.98 km
965 m
178 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (330 m)
Lowest point (160 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 27 June
25°C
18°C
31 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 5.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a diverse and engaging mountain biking experience in northern New Jersey, the Ringwood State Park – Shepherd Lake loop from Ringwood State Park is a solid choice. This moderate 16.0-mile (25.8 km) route packs in 1505 feet (459 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 23 minutes to complete. It's an excellent option for intermediate to advanced riders seeking a challenging and varied day on the Ringwood State Park mountain biking trails.
What to expect on Ringwood State Park – Shepherd Lake loop from Ringwood State Park
This route delivers a dynamic ride through a varied landscape. You'll encounter a mix of fire roads, rocky climbs, and technical descents, with plenty of singletrack paths that feature rock gardens and root-strewn sections. The scenery shifts from dense forests to serene views of Shepherd Lake, a 74-acre spring-fed lake that provides a beautiful backdrop. Beyond the natural beauty, you might also pass historical attractions like Ringwood Manor and the New Jersey Botanical Garden. Be prepared for a workout; some technical segments may even require you to push your bike, making it a true test of fitness and advanced riding skills.
Planning your visit
Shepherd Lake is a popular starting point for mountain bikers, so arriving early is a good idea, especially on weekends. Ringwood State Park is known for its extensive trail system, which connects into New York State, offering even more riding possibilities. The trails are actively maintained, often with the help of volunteers, ensuring a quality experience. While specific permit requirements aren't detailed, it's always wise to check the park's official website for any updates before you go.
Trail details
- Distance: 16.0 miles (25.8 km)
- Elevation gain: 1505 feet (459 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 23 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free