The best road cycling routes around Lyon Mountain

There are 5 road cycling routes around Lyon Mountain featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult options, catering to various fitness levels.

The terrain around Lyon Mountain is varied, offering a mix of moderate to hard road rides with significant elevation gains. You'll find mostly well-paved surfaces, especially on routes like those circling Chazy Lake and Lower Chateaugay Lake. Some routes involve long climbs, providing a diverse experience for cyclists.

Road cycling routes often feature stunning views of the region's prominent lakes, such as Chazy Lake and Lower Chateaugay Lake. The area is within the Chazy Highlands State Forest, so you'll also cycle through lush forests. While not directly on a cycling route, the Lyon Mountain Summit and its restored 1917 fire tower offer incredible panoramic views of the Adirondacks, Vermont, and even Montreal, which can be a rewarding side trip.

Yes, there are moderate routes available. For example, the Chazy Lake via Standish Road loop —Clinton County is a moderate 35.5-mile route that offers beautiful views of Chazy Lake without extreme difficulty. Another moderate option is the Route 374 — Chazy Lake – Chazy Lake loop from Chazy Lake Dam.

Absolutely. Lyon Mountain offers several difficult routes with substantial elevation gain. The Lower Chateaugay Lake via Route 374 is a challenging 69.9-mile path with over 1,100 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Standish Road — Persons Knob – Route 374 — Chazy Lake loop from Upper Chateaugay Lake Boat Launch, which covers nearly 50 miles with over 1,000 meters of climbing.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Chazy Lake via Standish Road loop —Clinton County and the Standish Road — Persons Knob – Route 374 — Chazy Lake loop from Upper Chateaugay Lake Boat Launch. These loops are excellent for exploring the region's diverse landscapes.

The best time for road cycling around Lyon Mountain is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. This period offers pleasant temperatures and clear roads, allowing you to fully enjoy the scenic beauty of the lakes and forests. Summer is particularly popular for its long daylight hours and vibrant natural surroundings.

Yes, the Silver Lake Preserve loop from Saranac is a difficult 78.2-kilometer road cycling route that takes you along the scenic shores of Silver Lake Preserve, offering tranquil and picturesque surroundings.

Road cyclists often praise the region for its scenic lake loops, particularly around Chazy Lake and Lower Chateaugay Lake, and the forested roads that offer a peaceful riding experience. The varied elevation profiles are also a highlight, providing options for both moderate and challenging rides. The komoot community has explored these routes, appreciating the diverse terrain.

Lyon Mountain has a rich history tied to iron ore mining. While not directly on the cycling routes, the town of Popeville was once a bustling mining community. The iron extracted from Lyon Mountain was historically used in iconic structures like the Brooklyn, George Washington, and Golden Gate bridges. Exploring this history can add another layer to your visit to the region.

Many of the road cycling routes around Lyon Mountain feature mostly well-paved surfaces, especially for the easier to moderate rides. Route 374, which runs between Lyon Mountain and Ellenburg and passes by Chazy Lake, is noted for its comfortable ride and generous shoulder, making it ideal for cyclists.