The best MTB trails in Salt Hill State Forest

There are 7 mountain bike trails available in Salt Hill State Forest and the surrounding area on komoot. These routes offer diverse experiences through rocky ridgelines, deciduous forests, and rolling hills.

Mountain biking in Salt Hill State Forest primarily involves riding on old roadways, informal woods roads, and some footpaths. The terrain features rocky ridgelines, rolling hills, and rocky outcrops. For more technical and challenging terrain, the nearby Blue Mountain Reservation offers trails with rock gardens and significant climbs and descents.

Yes, there are options for less experienced riders. For example, the Blue Mountain Reservation Beginner Loop is a moderate 3.4-mile (5.5 km) path that winds through varied forest landscapes, providing a less strenuous option.

For advanced riders seeking a challenge, the Blue Mountain Reservation Advanced Loop is a popular choice. This 11.7-mile (18.9 km) trail offers technical terrain with challenging climbs and descents, often completed in about 2 hours.

While riding, you might encounter the 699-foot Salt Hill Summit, the picturesque 7-acre Blue Lake, and protected wetlands. The forest also contains historic features such as old stone walls, foundations, and root cellars, as well as the remnants of a 1950s fire tower on Salt Hill. During leaf-off season, views of the Croton Reservoir can be seen from rock outcrops.

Yes, several routes offer a loop experience. An example is the Trail Crossing (31) – Lounsbury Pond loop from Village of Buchanan, which is 5.7 miles (9.1 km) long and takes you through deciduous forests and near Lounsbury Pond.

Salt Hill State Forest is generally open to multi-use recreation, and dogs are typically permitted on trails. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to respect other users and wildlife.

The best time to visit for mountain biking is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and trails are dry. Fall offers beautiful foliage. Winter riding is possible, but conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially on the rocky terrain.

Currently, parking at Salt Hill State Forest is informal. Future plans include the development of a dedicated parking area. Riders often find parking near trailheads or access points, but it's advisable to check local regulations and signage.

The routes in Salt Hill State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 6 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscape, including rocky ridgelines and deciduous forests, and the varied conditions that cater to different skill levels.

Yes, some routes combine Salt Hill State Forest with the nearby Blue Mountain Reservation. These can span over 30 kilometers with significant elevation changes, offering a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, and providing a more extensive riding experience.