The best traffic-free bike rides in Slide Mountain Wilderness

There are 4 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Slide Mountain Wilderness area. These include 2 easy routes, 1 moderate route, and 1 difficult route, offering options for various skill levels.

Yes, for an easier experience, consider routes around the Ashokan Reservoir. The Frozen Ashokan Reservoir loop from Boiceville and the Frozen Ashokan Reservoir loop from Shokan are both easy, paved paths with minimal elevation gain, offering spectacular views of the reservoir. These are great for families or beginners.

While the interior of the wilderness is for hiking, the surrounding roads offer stunning views. Routes around the Ashokan Reservoir provide picturesque vistas of the water and surrounding mountains. For panoramic views of the Catskills, consider areas near Giant Ledge Viewpoint or Slide Mountain Overlook, which are accessible from nearby roads or short hikes off the cycling routes.

The public roads around Slide Mountain Wilderness are generally accessible for touring cycling from spring through fall. Spring offers lush greenery, while autumn provides spectacular fall foliage. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially for higher elevations.

Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with substantial climbs. The Peekamoose Blue Hole – Ashokan Reservoir loop from Shokan is a difficult route featuring over 1,200 meters of elevation gain over its 94-kilometer distance. Another challenging option is the Ashokan Reservoir – Peekamoose Blue Hole loop from Olivebridge, which covers over 70 kilometers with more than 1,000 meters of ascent.

The routes traverse a diverse landscape. You'll cycle through dense forests, including old-growth hemlock stands, and experience significant elevation changes. The region is known for its prominent peaks like Slide Mountain, Wittenberg Mountain, and Peekamoose Mountain. You'll also encounter scenic valleys and views of important water sources like the Ashokan Reservoir and the Esopus Creek.

Yes, all the no-traffic touring cycling routes listed are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This includes the easier loops around the Ashokan Reservoir and the more challenging routes that incorporate the Peekamoose Blue Hole.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in this area, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning natural beauty of the Catskills, and the rewarding challenges offered by the varied terrain and elevation changes.

While the interior trails of the Slide Mountain Wilderness are reserved for foot travel, the touring cycling routes utilize public roads surrounding the wilderness area. Generally, no special permits are required for cycling on these public roads. However, always be mindful of local traffic laws and any posted regulations.

Access points for these routes are typically found in towns or designated parking areas near the start of the loops. For routes around the Ashokan Reservoir, you can often find parking in areas like Boiceville or Shokan. For routes involving the Peekamoose Blue Hole, specific parking areas are usually available near the start of the route, but it's advisable to check specific route details for precise parking information.

The Slide Mountain Wilderness is a remote area, but towns surrounding the region, such as Phoenicia, Shokan, and Boiceville, offer options for cafes, restaurants, and resupply. It's recommended to plan your stops in advance and carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for longer routes, as amenities may be sparse directly along the less populated sections of the roads.