Ashokan Reservoir loop from Marbletown

The full Ashokan Reservoir loop, which includes the 11.5-mile Ashokan Rail Trail (ART) and approximately 17 miles of road cycling on Route 28A, is considered a moderate challenge due to its 31-mile distance. While the ART segment is flat and easy, the road sections contribute to the overall difficulty, especially given the distance and some areas with limited shoulder.

The Ashokan Rail Trail (ART) portion features a smooth, compacted crushed stone surface, 10 to 12 feet wide, making it suitable for most bikes. The remaining approximately 17 miles of the loop are on Route 28A, a lightly traveled two-lane highway. While generally good, some road sections may have limited shoulder.

While there isn't a specific trailhead in Marbletown for the loop, the Ashokan Rail Trail (ART) offers three main public trailheads with parking: Woodstock Dike, Ashokan Station, and Boiceville Bridge. These are accessible from the Marbletown area and provide direct access to the rail trail segment of the loop.

No, a special permit is not required to cycle the Ashokan Rail Trail or the full loop around the reservoir. The ART provides public access to the northern shores of the Ashokan Reservoir without a permit, a significant change from previous regulations.

The 11.5-mile Ashokan Rail Trail (ART) segment is easy, flat, and accessible for a wide range of users, including families and beginners. However, the complete 31-mile loop, which includes road cycling, presents a moderate challenge due to its length. Beginners might consider cycling only the ART portion or shorter segments of the full loop.

The route offers diverse and breathtaking scenery. You'll enjoy wide-open views of the Ashokan Reservoir and the majestic Catskill Mountains. The trail also passes through quiet forest glades, dramatic rock cuts, and deep forest valleys. Don't miss the View of Ashokan Reservoir and Catskill Mountains and the Small Ashokan Gorge.

Wildlife viewing is a highlight along the route. Keep an eye out for American Bald Eagles soaring overhead and Great Blue Herons in the shallows of the reservoir. Various other bird species are also common, especially in the forested areas and wetlands.

The trail offers beautiful scenery year-round. However, autumn is particularly spectacular with vibrant fall foliage. The trail is open from sunrise to sunset year-round, so any season can be enjoyable, but spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable cycling temperatures.

The Ashokan Rail Trail (ART) is open for non-motorized uses. While specific dog rules for the entire cycling loop are not detailed, dogs are generally permitted on the ART if kept on a leash. Always ensure to clean up after your pet.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the B W S Road, Fording Place Road, and the Ashokan Quarry Trail.

Approximately 17 miles of the loop are on Route 28A, a lightly traveled two-lane highway. While traffic is generally light, some sections may have limited shoulder. Cyclists should be prepared to share the road with vehicles and exercise caution, especially in areas without a dedicated bike lane or wide shoulder.

The Ashokan Reservoir loop is located within the Catskill Park. Generally, there are no entrance fees for accessing the park itself. However, specific regulations apply to preserve the natural environment, such as 'Leave No Trace' principles. Always check local signage for any specific rules related to the reservoir or trail sections.