The best traffic-free bike rides in Witch'S Hole State Forest

There are currently 5 curated no-traffic touring cycling routes available for Witch's Hole State Forest and the surrounding area. These routes offer a range of distances and difficulty levels to suit different preferences.

While Witch's Hole State Forest itself has rugged, unmaintained trails more suited for hiking or mountain biking, the no-traffic touring routes in the broader area often utilize gravel carriage roads and dedicated rail trails. For example, the historic Old Smiley Carriage Road, which provides access to the forest, is a gravel path. Routes like the O&W Rail Trail: Kerhonkson-Kingston Loop offer smoother surfaces, while others may include a mix of paved and well-maintained gravel sections.

The routes in this guide are generally rated moderate to difficult, with distances ranging from 25 km to over 65 km and significant elevation gains. While not specifically designated as 'family-friendly' for young children, experienced families comfortable with longer distances and varied terrain might enjoy the more moderate options like the O&W Rail Trail: Kerhonkson-Kingston Loop or the Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting Loop.

Yes, several of the no-traffic touring routes in the Witch's Hole State Forest region are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Lippman Park and Vernooy Kill State Forest loop via Kerhonkson and the Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting Loop.

The routes in this guide are categorized as moderate or difficult. There are 2 moderate routes and 3 difficult routes. The difficult routes often feature significant elevation changes and longer distances, such as the 52 km Lake Maratanza, Awosting Lake and Awosting Falls from Ellenville with over 880 meters of ascent.

Yes, the region is known for its natural beauty. The Lake Maratanza, Awosting Lake and Awosting Falls from Ellenville route, for instance, includes Awosting Falls. While Witch's Hole State Forest itself has the 'Witches Hole Waterfall Trail', the touring routes in the broader area often pass through or near scenic spots like Napanoch Point, offering panoramic views of the Shawangunk Ridge.

The Witch's Hole State Forest area is rich in diverse wildlife. Cyclists might spot species such as turkey, deer, and various birds including ravens, bald eagles, and songbirds. The region is also home to at-risk species like the peregrine falcon and timber rattlesnake, so it's important to observe from a distance and respect their habitat.

Parking is generally available at trailheads or designated access points for the routes. For example, the Old Smiley Carriage Road, which is a key access point for the area, begins at Berme Road Town Park in Ellenville, NY, where parking facilities are typically found. Routes that venture into Minnewaska State Park Preserve will also have designated parking areas.

The komoot community highly rates the experiences in this region, with an average score of 5.0 stars based on user reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquility of the no-traffic routes, the stunning natural landscapes of the Shawangunk Ridge, and the opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems away from busy roads.

The best time to enjoy touring bike trails in the Witch's Hole State Forest area is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months. Spring offers lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall provides spectacular foliage. Summer is also excellent, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible on forest roads and trails for those equipped for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, but conditions for touring bikes may be challenging due to snow and ice.

While Witch's Hole State Forest itself permits dogs on trails, specific regulations may vary for different sections of the touring routes, especially those that pass through adjacent state parks or preserves like Minnewaska State Park. It's always best to check the specific rules for each route or park section you plan to visit regarding pet policies, including leash requirements.