The best traffic-free bike rides in Plattekill State Forest

Our guide features four distinct no-traffic road cycling routes within and around Plattekill State Forest. These routes offer a range of distances and challenges, perfect for exploring the serene Catskills landscape.

The routes in and around Plattekill State Forest, situated in the Catskills, feature varied terrain with significant elevation changes. You can expect rolling hills and some challenging climbs. For example, the Millbrook Covered Bridge loop from Roxbury Railroad Station, rated difficult, includes over 1300 meters of elevation gain, while the Wawaka Lake loop from Halcottsville, a moderate route, still offers nearly 400 meters of ascent.

While the routes listed in this guide are rated moderate to difficult due to their length and elevation, the broader Catskills region offers options that might be more suitable for families. The Catskill Scenic Trail, for instance, is a 26-mile flat-packed gravel trail excellent for hybrid bikes, providing a gentler experience away from traffic. For specific road cycling routes in this guide, consider the Wawaka Lake loop from Halcottsville as a moderate option, though it still requires a good fitness level.

The routes traverse scenic areas of the Catskills, offering views of the region's natural beauty. You'll pass through peaceful forest surroundings, rolling farmlands, and potentially catch glimpses of the diverse terrain that characterizes the Appalachian Mountains. The Millbrook Covered Bridge loop from Roxbury Railroad Station specifically highlights a charming covered bridge, adding a historical touch to your ride.

Plattekill State Forest provides a parking lot for visitors. Additionally, some routes, like the Alpaca Ridge Unit – Brook Road Unit loop and the Millbrook Covered Bridge loop, start from the Roxbury Railroad Station, which typically offers parking facilities suitable for cyclists.

The best time for road cycling in Plattekill State Forest and the surrounding Catskills region is generally from spring through fall. Spring brings lush greenery, while autumn offers spectacular fall foliage. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear due to snow and colder conditions, as the area is also used for snowmobiling.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, the Millbrook Covered Bridge loop from Roxbury Railroad Station is a challenging long-distance option, covering over 83 kilometers with significant elevation gain. Another substantial route is the Alpaca Ridge Unit – Brook Road Unit loop from Roxbury Railroad Station, which is over 44 kilometers long.

These routes are specifically curated for road bikes, focusing on paved or well-maintained, low-traffic roads. While the Catskills region has multi-use trails and unpaved tracks, the routes in this guide are selected for their suitability for standard road cycling. Always check the route details for any specific surface information, but generally, your road bike will be appropriate.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are loop trails, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path. Examples include the Wawaka Lake loop from Halcottsville and the Wawaka Lake – East Branch Delaware Unit loop from Sprague Road Unit, providing convenient circular journeys.

Plattekill State Forest is located near several small towns in the Catskills, such as Roxbury and Halcottsville, which serve as starting points for some routes. These towns offer local amenities, including cafes, small shops, and accommodation options. It's advisable to check availability in advance, especially during peak seasons, as these are smaller communities.

Plattekill State Forest is managed for multiple uses, including recreation. While mountain biking is generally allowed on multi-use trails, specific maintained road cycling trails within the immediate forest are not explicitly detailed. When cycling on public roads within or bordering the forest, standard New York State traffic laws apply. Always respect private property, stay on designated routes, and practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.