The best traffic-free bike rides in Ushers Road State Forest

There are 17 no-traffic touring cycling routes available in and around Ushers Road State Forest. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from shorter loops within the forest to longer rides connecting to the regional Zim Smith Trail.

Within Ushers Road State Forest itself, the multi-use trails are generally level but can feature uneven roots, rocks, and muddy sections, with planks and rustic bridges over wetter areas. These might be best suited for hybrid or mountain bikes. However, a significant portion of the no-traffic touring routes connect to the Zim Smith Trail, which is mostly paved and offers a smoother surface ideal for touring bicycles.

Yes, the primary paved no-traffic option for touring cyclists is the Zim Smith Trail, which connects directly to Ushers Road State Forest via the Spur Trail. This 11.5-mile multi-use path is mostly paved and links several towns in Saratoga County, providing excellent, smoother surfaces for longer touring rides. Routes like the Zim Smith Mid County Trailhead loop offer a taste of these paved sections.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes in this area are generally considered easy to moderate. Out of the 17 available routes, 11 are rated as easy, and 6 are rated as moderate. There are no difficult routes, making the area accessible for a wide range of cyclists looking for a relaxed ride.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Zim Smith Trail – Shenantaha Creek Park loop from Village of Round Lake is a popular moderate option, while the Zim Smith Trail – Shenantaha Creek Park loop from Ballston Creek Preserve offers an easier loop experience.

Yes, Ushers Road State Forest offers a spacious parking area, making it convenient for cyclists to access the trails and begin their no-traffic touring adventures. The forest's location near Clifton Park and Halfmoon, just a mile from I-87, also makes it easily reachable.

While the internal trails of Ushers Road State Forest offer peaceful rides through lush forested areas dominated by white pine and hemlock, providing opportunities for wildlife spotting (songbirds, deer, wild turkey), they don't feature dramatic vistas or waterfalls. The connection to the Zim Smith Trail allows you to explore a broader area of Saratoga County, passing through various towns and natural settings.

Many of the easy-rated routes, especially those on the paved sections of the Zim Smith Trail, are very suitable for families. The absence of vehicle traffic provides a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages. The generally level terrain also contributes to a pleasant family cycling experience.

Ushers Road State Forest is generally welcoming to visitors with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. The multi-use trails within the forest and the Zim Smith Trail are popular for dog walkers and cyclists alike. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant environment for everyone.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 13 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the forested trails and the excellent connectivity to the paved, traffic-free Zim Smith Trail, which allows for longer, more comfortable touring rides away from roads.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling in Ushers Road State Forest. Spring brings fresh greenery, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days. During winter, the trails are also used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, so cycling might be limited to cleared paved sections if conditions allow.