The best cycling routes in Clark Reservation State Park
4.6
(12)
114
riders
11
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Touring cycling routes in Clark Reservation State Park primarily utilize external paths, as the park's internal trails are rugged and designed for hiking. The region surrounding Clark Reservation State Park features a landscape shaped by glacial activity, including the distinctive Glacial Plunge Basin Lake and dramatic limestone cliffs. While the park itself is known for its diverse flora and geological formations, the touring cycling opportunities are found on nearby, more suitable routes. These routes often follow waterways and offer generally flat terrain.
Best touring cycling routes in Clark Reservation State Park
- The most popular touring cycling route is Erie Canalway Trail – Cedar Bay Park loop from Town of DeWitt, a 6.7 miles (10.8 km) trail that takes 38 minutes to complete. This easy route offers a smooth ride along the historic canalway.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Erie Canalway Trail – Erie Canalway Trail loop from Town of DeWitt, an easy 17.1 miles (27.5 km) path. This route provides extended views along the canal, suitable for longer rides.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Onondaga Creekwalk and Loop the Lake Trail, a 21.2 miles (34.1 km) trail leading through urban green spaces and along the lake, often completed in about 1 hour 56 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Clark Reservation State Park is defined by canal paths, creekwalks, and lake loops, offering flat and accessible terrain. The network provides options for various ability levels, predominantly featuring easy routes.
- The routes in Clark Reservation State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 100 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Clark Reservation State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
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.
4.0
(1)
1
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.5
(4)
19
riders
34.1km
01:57
70m
70m
Cycle the easy 21.2-mile Onondaga Creekwalk and Loop the Lake Trail for urban sights and scenic views of Onondaga Lake.
19
riders
22.7km
01:24
50m
50m
Embark on an easy touring cycling adventure along the Erie Canalway Trail from DeWitt to Chittenango. This 14.1-mile (22.7 km) route offers scenic views of the historic canal, wetlands, and diverse wildlife, making for a pleasant ride that takes about 1 hour and 23 minutes. You will experience mostly flat terrain with a mix of paved and stonedust surfaces, gaining only 168 feet (51 metres) in elevation, and can spot historic structures like the Limestone Creek Aqueduct along the way.
When planning your visit, be aware that there are no direct services like cafes or bike rentals along this specific section of the trail. However, both DeWitt and Chittenango offer amenities and parking, making it easy to decide where to start and end your journey. You can find everything you need in these towns before or after your ride, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience.
This section of the Erie Canalway Trail is part of the larger Old Erie Canal State Historic Park, highlighting its historical significance. As you cycle, you are tracing a path rich in history, following the route of the old canal. The trail also passes near Green Lakes State Park, known for its unique glacial lakes, offering another point of interest if you wish to extend your exploration in the area.
4
riders
23.0km
01:19
40m
40m
Cycle the easy 14.3-mile Erie Canalway Trail from Syracuse to Dewitt, enjoying historic canal views, diverse terrain, and urban connections.
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Popular around Clark Reservation State Park
Tips from the Community
This trail is the best thing about Syracuse! Can’t get enough of it and am constantly going back. Well maintained, beautiful and stunning
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There's a turnoff from the Onondaga Creekwalk to Franklin Square, the park that marks an old industrial neighborhood, now revitalized for residential and commercial use. Technically, this is part of the Lakefront neighborhood.
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There's a turnoff from the Onondaga Creekwalk to Franklin Square, the park that marks an old industrial neighborhood, now revitalized for residential and commercial use. Technically, this is part of the Lakefront neighborhood.
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All told this paved multi-use trail runs 4.8 miles alongside the creek, through Syracuse and on to Onondaga Lake. It takes you past some of Syracuse's most famous landmarks, including the century-old Onondaga Park.
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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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You wouldn't know it by looking at the paved trail beneath you or the boulevard on either side, but this route used to follow the path of the historic Erie Canal. Today, it's a great cycling route along the grassy verge. If you wanted to, you could ride all the way from Albany to Buffalo.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of touring cycling routes can I expect around Clark Reservation State Park?
The touring cycling routes in the vicinity of Clark Reservation State Park primarily utilize external paths, such as canal paths, creekwalks, and lake loops. These routes are generally flat and accessible, offering a smooth riding experience. You'll find over a dozen routes, with the majority being easy and a few moderate options.
Are the internal trails within Clark Reservation State Park suitable for touring cycling?
No, the internal trails within Clark Reservation State Park are generally not suitable for touring cycling. These trails are rugged, characterized by uneven terrain, cobbles, and boulders, and are designed for hiking and foot traffic. Touring cyclists will find more appropriate routes on nearby external paths.
What are some popular touring cycling routes near Clark Reservation State Park?
Local touring cyclists enjoy routes like the Erie Canalway Trail – Cedar Bay Park loop from Town of DeWitt, which is an easy 6.7-mile ride. Another favorite is the Onondaga Creekwalk and Loop the Lake Trail, offering a 21.2-mile journey through urban green spaces and along the lake.
What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on touring cycling routes in this area?
The touring cycling routes around Clark Reservation State Park are predominantly flat and accessible. They follow canal paths, creekwalks, and lake loops, meaning you'll encounter minimal elevation changes, making them suitable for a relaxed touring experience.
What natural features or points of interest can I see while cycling near Clark Reservation State Park?
While the park itself is known for its unique geology, including the Glacial Plunge Basin Lake and dramatic limestone cliffs, the cycling routes typically follow waterways like the Erie Canal. These paths offer views of the canal, surrounding natural areas, and urban green spaces. For a deeper dive into the park's natural wonders, consider exploring its hiking trails on foot.
Are there any loop routes available for touring cyclists?
Yes, there are several loop routes. For example, the Erie Canalway Trail – Cedar Bay Park loop from Town of DeWitt and the Erie Canalway Trail – Erie Canalway Trail loop from Town of DeWitt are popular options that allow you to start and end in the same location.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in the Clark Reservation State Park area?
The routes in this area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the flat, accessible terrain and the scenic views along the canal paths and lake loops, making for enjoyable and relaxing rides.
Are the touring cycling routes near Clark Reservation State Park suitable for families?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the area are ideal for families. Their easy difficulty grade, flat terrain, and well-maintained paths along canals and lakes make them safe and enjoyable for cyclists of all ages and skill levels.
Is there public transport access to the touring cycling routes near Clark Reservation State Park?
While Clark Reservation State Park itself has limited public transport options, the touring cycling routes, particularly those along the Erie Canalway Trail or connecting to urban areas like Syracuse, may have access points reachable by local public transport. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and routes for specific access points.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in the Clark Reservation State Park area?
Parking is generally available at various access points along the Erie Canalway Trail and other popular cycling routes. For routes starting from the Town of DeWitt, you can typically find parking facilities. Specific parking details for each route can often be found on the individual route pages.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling near Clark Reservation State Park?
The best time for touring cycling in this region is typically from spring through fall, when the weather is mild and the paths are clear of snow and ice. Summer offers lush greenery, while spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for more experienced riders?
Yes, for those looking for longer rides, routes like the Erie Canalway Trail: DeWitt to Chittenango offer extended distances. This route covers approximately 14.1 miles (22.7 km) one way, providing a good option for a longer outing or an out-and-back ride.
Most popular routes in Clark Reservation State Park
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