The best MTB trails in Rockland Lake State Park

The Blue Trail (Main Loop) offers a dynamic mountain biking experience, weaving through wooded areas with a mix of natural obstacles. You'll encounter classic singletrack sections, navigate over roots and rocks, and enjoy the flow of varied terrain. It's a trail designed to keep you engaged, providing a scenic journey through forests and natural landscapes.

This moderate 7.0-mile (11.3 km) loop, with 621 feet (189 metres) of elevation gain, is a solid choice for intermediate riders looking to expand their skills. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 4 minutes on the bike, tackling a mix of climbs and descents. While specific parking isn't detailed, arriving early is often wise for popular trails like this.

Serving as a crucial step for riders advancing beyond beginner trails, the Blue Trail (Main Loop) introduces more technical elements and diverse terrain in a manageable way. It's a great option for those seeking a challenge that's not overly demanding, blending natural features with sections that allow for speed and rhythm.

The Graham Hills Park loop from Pleasantville offers a dense network of technical singletrack within a mature hardwood forest, providing a surprisingly secluded feel despite its suburban location. You'll navigate rocky ridgelines, rooty sections, and short, steep climbs, making it a dynamic and engaging ride. The park's design ensures a high concentration of technical riding, perfect for those who enjoy a challenge.

Planning your visit is easy, especially if you're using public transport. The park is conveniently located just a one-mile ride from the Pleasantville train station, which is about a 55-minute train trip from New York City. This accessibility makes it a prime spot for mountain bikers looking for a quick escape without needing a car.

Graham Hills Park is considered one of Westchester County's best technical riding areas, particularly for riders looking to progress their skills. It features a volunteer-supported skills area near the entrance where you can practice jumps, drops, balance, and technical handling. This makes it an excellent destination for intermediate to advanced riders seeking to refine their abilities on a moderate 5.2-mile (8.3 km) loop with 727 feet (221 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in around 51 minutes.

The Tarrytown Reservoir – North County Trailway loop from Pleasantville offers a dynamic mountain biking experience, blending the smooth, shaded paths of a rail-trail with the rugged, technical challenges of natural singletrack. You'll cruise along the paved North County Trailway, enjoying views of the Croton Reservoir from a bridge, before diving into the more demanding terrain around the Tarrytown Lakes, where roots, rocks, and mud will test your skills. This moderate 19.9-mile (32.0 km) route, with 1458 feet (444 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 31 minutes to complete.

This popular route is easily accessible from Pleasantville and is part of a larger countywide trailway system, offering opportunities to extend your ride. While the North County Trailway is generally well-maintained, it's a shared-use path, so expect to encounter pedestrians and other cyclists. The more technical sections around the reservoir require good fitness and advanced riding skills, so plan accordingly.

Historically, the North County Trailway follows the former New York Central Railroad's Putnam Division line, with plaques marking old station locations, adding a layer of historical interest to your ride. This loop stands out for its unique combination of accessible, easy riding and more challenging, technical mountain biking, catering to a wide range of preferences within a single outing.