Things to Do in Ambler State Forest

Ambler State Forest is a 629-acre state forest located in the Town of New Berlin, Chenango County, New York. It is situated on a hillside overlooking the scenic Unadilla River valley, offering a tranquil and undeveloped outdoor experience.

Ambler State Forest provides opportunities for various outdoor activities. These include biking, hiking, cross-country skiing, fishing, hunting, trapping, primitive camping, bird and wildlife watching, and nature photography.

Biking opportunities within Ambler State Forest are primarily on unpaved surfaces, making it suitable for mountain or gravel cycling. The forest features a 1.75-mile (2.8 km) truck trail with elevation changes for climbing and coasting.

While the forest's interior trails are unpaved, some routes are listed for road cycling, often referring to the unpaved truck trail or paved access roads leading to the forest. For specific routes, refer to the guide Road Cycling Routes in Ambler State Forest.

Ambler State Forest features a blend of native hardwoods and softwoods, including plantations established by the Civilian Conservation Corps. A notable highlight is the panoramic view of the Unadilla River valley, visible upon leaving the forest via the truck trail.

The unpaved truck trail within Ambler State Forest offers a relatively gentle grade in some sections, which may be suitable for families with appropriate bikes. Cyclists should be prepared for unpaved conditions and elevation changes.

Ambler State Forest is generally dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs on its trails. Visitors should ensure their pets are under control and follow all New York State Department of Environmental Conservation regulations.

Ambler State Forest has been visited by more than 10 komoot users. The forest offers a variety of routes for outdoor enthusiasts.

A komoot guide titled Road Cycling Routes in Ambler State Forest is available. This guide provides detailed information on routes suitable for cycling within the area.

Official information for Ambler State Forest is available through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation website. The DEC Region 7 Sherburne Office can be reached at (607) 371-7268 during business hours.

The primary biking terrain in Ambler State Forest consists of unpaved surfaces, including a 1.75-mile (2.8 km) truck trail. This trail features elevation changes, providing opportunities for both uphill climbs and downhill coasting.

Ambler State Forest contains plantations established by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1932 and 1934. Evidence of the CCC's historical presence, such as a man-made well used for fire suppression, can still be found along the truck trail.