The best traffic-free bike rides in Witch'S Hole State Forest

Our guide features 12 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in Witch'S Hole State Forest. These routes range from moderate to difficult, offering diverse challenges for cyclists looking to explore the area away from vehicle traffic.

The routes in Witch'S Hole State Forest traverse a rugged and densely wooded landscape within the Shawangunk Ridge. While some sections utilize historic carriage roads, be aware that the terrain can include steep ascents and descents. Some paths, particularly those described as 'rocky,' might be more suitable for bikes with wider tires, but our selected routes are optimized for road cycling.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, consider the View of the Shawangunk Kill – Amazing View Of The Shawgunks loop from Awosting Reserve Parking. This difficult route spans over 102 kilometers and features significant elevation gain, offering an extensive ride through the scenic landscape.

While cycling, you'll be immersed in the natural beauty of the Shawangunk Ridge, characterized by thickets of mountain laurel and hemlock forest. Keep an eye out for glimpses of the Witches Hole Waterfall Trail, and from higher elevations, you might catch expansive views similar to those from Napanoch Point in the adjacent Minnewaska State Park Preserve, showcasing the dramatic cliff lines and narrow gorges.

Absolutely. A popular moderate option is the Red Barns at Lippman Park – Red Barns at Lippman Park loop from Town of Wawarsing. This route covers nearly 58 kilometers with over 700 meters of elevation gain, providing a rewarding ride without extreme difficulty.

Yes, several routes offer views of the Shawangunk Kill. For example, the Skydive the Ranch – View of the Shawangunk Kill loop from Awosting Reserve Parking is a moderate 40-kilometer ride that provides picturesque vistas of the Kill and surrounding areas.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Witch'S Hole State Forest, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter may present challenges with snow and ice on some paths, making them less suitable for road bikes. Always check local weather conditions before you go.

The Old Smiley Carriage Road is a significant historic pathway that provides direct access into Witch'S Hole State Forest. While it's open to non-motorized recreation and offers a unique experience, parts of it are described as having 'rocky paths' and 'steep forest trails.' Depending on recent conditions and your road bike's tire width, some sections might be more challenging for conventional road bikes than others. Cyclists often find it more suitable for gravel or mountain bikes.

The komoot community rates the cycling experience in Witch'S Hole State Forest highly, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, car-free nature of the routes and the stunning natural scenery of the Shawangunk Ridge.

For a solid moderate ride that's not excessively long, consider the View of the Shawangunk Kill loop from Awosting Reserve Parking. This route is approximately 48 kilometers long with around 390 meters of elevation gain, offering a good balance of distance and challenge.

Many routes, such as those starting from Awosting Reserve Parking, offer designated parking areas. The Old Smiley Carriage Road, which provides access to the forest, begins at the Berme Road Town Park in Ellenville, NY, where parking facilities are typically available. Always check for specific parking instructions or fees for your chosen starting point.