The best traffic-free bike rides in New Forge State Forest

The New Forge State Forest area offers several excellent no-traffic touring cycling routes. Our guide features 5 distinct routes, ranging from easy to difficult, allowing you to explore the scenic rural roads surrounding the forest.

The best time for touring cycling in the New Forge State Forest area is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months. Spring offers lush greenery, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage. Summers are pleasant, but always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, there is a great option for families and beginners. The Snyder Pond loop from Miller Pond is an easy 17 km route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed ride away from traffic.

While New Forge State Forest itself is dog-friendly for activities like walking, the touring cycling routes primarily utilize rural roads. If your dog is accustomed to riding in a trailer or basket, these routes can be enjoyed together. Always ensure your dog's safety and comfort, and be mindful of local leash laws and waste disposal.

Yes, all the no-traffic touring cycling routes featured in this guide are circular loops. For example, you can enjoy the moderate Snyder Pond loop from Copake Lake or the more challenging Snake Hill – Tory Hill loop from Lake Taghkanic State Park, both offering a return to your starting point.

While the routes themselves traverse the rural roads surrounding New Forge State Forest, the region is known for its picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and farmland. The forest itself features the Taghkanic Creek and a beautiful waterfall, as well as pine forests and wetlands. You'll enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

The routes in this guide offer a range of difficulties. We have one easy route, three moderate routes, and one difficult route. This variety ensures there's something for every skill level, from leisurely rides to more challenging excursions with significant elevation changes.

Parking is generally available at the starting points of the routes, often near public access points or designated parking areas in the surrounding towns and parks. For instance, the Snake Hill – Tory Hill loop starts from Lake Taghkanic State Park, which typically has parking facilities.

The routes are situated in a rural area, so amenities like cafes and shops might not be directly on the route. However, the starting points of some routes are near towns like Copake, where you can find local establishments. It's always a good idea to pack sufficient water and snacks, especially for longer rides.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in this area, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, low-traffic rural roads, the beautiful countryside scenery, and the opportunity to enjoy a quiet ride away from busy urban areas.

The routes vary in length to suit different preferences. The shortest route, the Snyder Pond loop from Miller Pond, is approximately 17 km. The longest route, the Snake Hill – Tory Hill loop from Lake Taghkanic State Park, is around 57 km, offering a full day's adventure.

Public transport options directly to the rural starting points of these touring cycling routes are limited. Most visitors typically access the area by car, often via County Route 10 off the Taconic State Parkway, and then drive to the specific starting locations for their chosen ride.