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Gravel rides
United States
New York

Essex County

The best traffic-free bike rides in Essex County

4.5

(8)

221

riders

21

rides

Gravel biking in Essex County, particularly in the Lake Champlain region, offers diverse landscapes for riders seeking no traffic routes. The area is characterized by wide-open landscapes, expansive wilderness, and a mix of unpaved and paved surfaces. Riders can expect varied terrain including climbs, descents, forests, and fields. This region provides numerous opportunities to explore picturesque scenes and natural features on two wheels.

Best no traffic gravel bike trails in Essex County

  • The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Island Line Trail, a 20.9 miles (33.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 5 minutes to complete. This moderate route features gentle elevation changes and scenic views.
  • Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Colby Lake Bridge – Lake Flower loop from Village of Saranac Lake, a moderate 46.2 miles (74.3 km) path. This route offers a longer ride through varied terrain around lakes and forests.
  • Local gravel bikers also love the Downtown Lake Placid – Lake Flower loop from Village of Lake Placid, a 20.6 miles (33.2 km) trail leading through the scenic surroundings of Lake Placid, often completed in about 1 hour 43 minutes.
  • Gravel biking in Essex County is defined by wide-open landscapes, forests, and lakes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate to more challenging routes.
  • The routes in Essex County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 3 reviews. More than 150 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Essex County's varied terrain.

Last updated: July 7, 2026

61

riders

#1.

Island Line Trail

33.7km

02:05

130m

130m

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Essex County

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Traffic-free bike rides in Essex County

Traffic-free bike rides in Essex County

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mtm05005

Tips from the Community

Alex Tray
August 24, 2025, Floodwood stop

Has food and camping and biking supplies

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Great view of lake

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Good food and has breakfast

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Trail starts here

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The Island Line Bike Ferry at Colchester Causeway www.localmotion.org/bike_ferry During Summer service, Bike Ferry Hours are 10am-5pm Mon-Fri & 10am-6pm Sat & Sun. The Bike Ferry runs continuously throughout the day. Reservations are not required, and the boat runs by passenger's donations (cash or Venmo). The 2025 Bike Ferry season begins Memorial Day weekend, Friday May 23 - Monday May 26. Spring service on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through Sunday June 15th. Summer daily (7 days a week) service begins Monday June 16th and ends on Labor Day September 1st. Fall weekend service on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays begins Sept 5th. Last day of 2025 service is Indigenous Peoples Day on Monday October 13th.

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mtm05005
June 20, 2025, Moody Pond

Moody Pond is a serene 25-acre body of water at the foot of Baker Mountain and just east of Saranac Lake. There is a flat gravel path that loops around the banks of the lake.

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From this section of the Burlington Greenway you can enjoy views of the North Beach, right off the path. If you want to stop for a break, it's a good spot for a swim or picnic. It has a sandy shoreline, restrooms, and a snack bar in summer. It can get crowded on weekends, but the lake views make it a worthwhile stop.

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The Burlington Greenway is an 8-mile paved path that hugs the Lake Champlain shoreline, offering stunning water and mountain views. It links downtown Burlington with parks, beaches, and neighborhoods. Don’t miss the northern stretch along the causeway and the seasonal bike ferry to the Champlain Islands. This section includes a boardwalk with signs advising cyclists not to ride, due to the narrow space and high pedestrian traffic.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available in Essex County?

Komoot features 16 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike routes in Essex County. These routes offer a fantastic way to explore the region's diverse landscapes without the hustle and bustle of vehicle traffic.

What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic gravel trails in Essex County?

Essex County's no-traffic gravel trails, particularly in the Lake Champlain Region, offer a mix of unpaved and paved surfaces. You'll encounter wide-open landscapes, sections of wilderness, and picturesque scenes. Some routes may include gentle climbs and descents through forests and fields, providing a varied and engaging ride.

Are there any family-friendly no-traffic gravel bike trails in Essex County?

While many routes are moderate, the region offers options suitable for various experience levels. For a generally accessible experience, consider routes that blend paved and unpaved sections, allowing for a smoother ride. Always check individual route details for specific difficulty and terrain information to ensure it suits your family's needs.

What are some natural attractions I can see along these gravel routes?

Essex County is rich in natural beauty. Along or near some routes, you might encounter stunning features like Rainbow Falls or Beaver Meadow Falls. You could also find serene lakes such as Avalanche Lake, offering beautiful views and photo opportunities.

Are there any circular no-traffic gravel bike routes in Essex County?

Yes, several routes in Essex County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Colby Lake Bridge – Lake Flower loop from Village of Saranac Lake, which offers a substantial ride through varied scenery.

What is the average difficulty of no-traffic gravel bike trails in Essex County?

Most of the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Essex County are rated as 'moderate' difficulty. This means they are suitable for riders with some experience, often involving varied terrain, some elevation changes, and longer distances. There are also 'difficult' options for more experienced riders seeking a challenge.

Can I find long-distance no-traffic gravel routes in Essex County?

Absolutely. Essex County offers several longer no-traffic gravel routes for those looking for an extended adventure. For instance, the Lake Flower – Downtown Lake Placid loop from Lake Clear covers over 60 kilometers, providing a full day's ride through scenic landscapes.

What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about no-traffic gravel biking in Essex County?

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic gravel biking experience in Essex County, with an average score of 4.33 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, expansive wilderness, the blend of on and off-road experiences, and the picturesque views that make for a truly immersive ride away from traffic.

Are there any viewpoints or scenic overlooks along the no-traffic gravel trails?

Yes, the region is known for its scenic beauty. You might find stunning vistas, such as the View of Lower Ausable Lake from Indian Head, offering breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding natural landscape. Keep an eye out for these rewarding spots along your ride.

Is there parking available near the start of these no-traffic gravel routes?

Many trailheads and starting points for gravel routes in Essex County offer parking facilities. For example, the Van Hoevenberg Trailhead is a known parking area that can serve as a convenient access point for exploring nearby trails. It's always advisable to check specific route details for parking information.

What is a good moderate-length no-traffic gravel route to try?

For a moderate-length ride that offers a great experience, consider the Island Line Trail. This route spans over 33 kilometers and is rated as moderate, providing a good balance of distance and challenge without being overly strenuous.

Are there any routes that connect different towns or villages in Essex County?

Yes, some routes are designed to connect various points of interest, including towns and villages. The Downtown Lake Placid – Lake Flower loop from Village of Lake Placid is an excellent example, allowing you to experience both natural beauty and local charm.

Most popular routes in Essex County

Hiking in Essex County

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