The best cycling routes in Madison County
4.7
(17)
111
riders
19
rides
Touring cycling in Madison County, Central New York, offers diverse routes through varied terrain. The region features rolling hills, glacier-carved valleys, and flat farmland, with routes often running alongside the Erie Canal and near the shores of Oneida Lake. Cyclists can explore picturesque landscapes, including areas with waterfalls and lush greenery. The elevation changes are generally gradual, making many routes accessible for different skill levels.
Best touring cycling routes in Madison County
- The most popular touring cycling route is Erie…
Last updated: April 30, 2026
19
riders
22.7km
01:24
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
riders
25km
02:14
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(12)
24
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
10
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
8
riders
10.8km
00:38
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
37.8km
02:47
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
20.2km
01:36
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
28.7km
01:42
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
$10 to visit, interesting look at the history of the canal including a life-sized canal boat, workshop, and store you can walk through. They also have a small gift shop with a couple snacks/coffee available.
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This structure is a navigable aqueduct, carrying water over water. Truly an incredible feat of engineering showcased in the Erie canal project
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This cute little park sits right alongside the old Erie Canal. It's a good picnic spot or turnaround point for the Erie Canalway Trail, which is just on the other side of the water. If you wanted to, you could ride all the way from Albany to Buffalo along the local canal trails, but not all parts of those trails will be as pretty as this area, since they travel through the cities and the water isn't always visible.
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This trail/tow path mostly follows the route of the old, historic Erie Canal. Along this portion you can see where the original canal was enlarged, along with some beautiful stonework and a good look at a wide area in the canal called Cedar Bay. The trail here is paved, but some parts of the Erie Canalway Trail are hard-packed dirt and gravel.
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The Erie Canal Trail traces the path of the historic Erie Canal, which was largely replaced by the Barge Canal between 1905 and 1918. Today, the trail offers a glimpse of the canal's landscapes, showcasing its beauty and providing a scenic route to explore. The trail is made of hard-packed fine gravel.
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This is the remains of a three-span aqueduct across Limestone Creek, first completed in 1856. You can't see the original wooden trunk anymore; it has been replaced by a concrete channel.
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From the bridge, you'll catch a glimpse of the Old Erie Canal State Historic Park, where remnants of the canal persist along its towpath. You'll encounter several aqueducts, locks, and bridges, each offering a glimpse into the canal's past.
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Built in 1856 as part of the Enlarged Erie Canal, the aqueduct is right on the Erie Canalway Trail, and you can ride right over it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Madison County?
Madison County offers a diverse selection of over 20 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, ranging from easy, flat paths along the Erie Canal to more moderate rides with gradual elevation gains through rolling hills and valleys.
What types of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Madison County?
In Madison County, Central New York, you'll encounter varied terrain including rolling hills, glacier-carved valleys, and flat farmland. Many routes run alongside the historic Erie Canal and near the shores of Oneida Lake, offering picturesque landscapes and lush greenery. The elevation changes are generally gradual, making for an enjoyable touring experience.
Are there any easy, family-friendly touring cycling routes in Madison County?
Yes, Madison County has several easy, family-friendly routes. The Erie Canalway Trail: DeWitt to Chittenango is a popular choice, offering a flat and scenic ride along the historic canal. Another great option is the Erie Canalway Trail – Cedar Bay Park loop from Town of DeWitt, which is also easy and relatively short.
What are the more challenging touring cycling routes in Madison County?
While Madison County primarily features easy and moderate routes, some offer more significant elevation gain. Routes like the Erie Canalway Trail loop from Green Lakes State Park (the moderate version) or the Erie Canalway Trail – Green Lake State Park loop from Green Lakes State Park provide more varied terrain and elevation changes, making them suitable for cyclists looking for a moderate challenge.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Madison County?
Yes, many routes in Madison County are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Erie Canalway Trail – Erie Canalway Trail loop from Green Lakes State Park and the Erie Canalway Trail – Erie Canalway Trail loop from Town of DeWitt. These loops allow you to experience diverse scenery without retracing your path.
What scenic landmarks or attractions can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Cyclists in Madison County, Central New York, can enjoy picturesque views of the historic Erie Canal, the shores of Oneida Lake, and glacier-carved valleys. The region is also home to scenic spots like Chittenango Falls State Park, known for its beautiful waterfalls, and Green Lakes State Park, which offers stunning natural beauty. Routes around Madison and Bouckville on Rt. 20 pass by scenic farmland and Lake Moraine.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Madison County?
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Madison County, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse routes, the scenic beauty of the Erie Canal and surrounding landscapes, and the accessibility of routes for different skill levels. The combination of flat canal paths and rolling hills provides a varied and engaging experience.
Is public transport available to access touring cycling routes in Madison County?
While specific public transport options directly to trailheads can vary, many routes are accessible from towns and villages within Madison County, Central New York. For detailed information on local bus services or other transport links that might connect to cycling routes, it's advisable to check local transit authority websites.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Madison County?
Many touring cycling routes in Madison County, especially those along the Erie Canalway Trail or near state parks like Green Lakes State Park, offer designated parking areas. For specific routes, it's recommended to check the starting point details on komoot or local park information for available parking facilities.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Madison County?
The best season for touring cycling in Madison County, Central New York, is typically spring, summer, and fall. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the landscapes are vibrant. Fall offers particularly stunning foliage views. While some routes might be accessible in winter, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially on unpaved sections.
Are there any dog-friendly touring cycling routes in Madison County?
Many outdoor areas in Madison County, including sections of the Erie Canalway Trail, are generally dog-friendly, especially if your dog is on a leash. However, specific rules can vary by park or trail section. It's always best to check the regulations for the particular route or park you plan to visit to ensure it accommodates dogs.
Are there any long-distance cycling opportunities in Madison County?
Yes, Madison County, Central New York, is part of the larger Empire State Trail system, which includes the Erie Canalway Trail. This allows for longer-distance cycling experiences beyond individual loops, connecting you to an extensive network of trails across New York State for multi-day touring adventures.
Most popular routes in Madison County
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