The best traffic-free bike rides in Ulster County

Ulster County offers over 40 dedicated traffic-free gravel bike trails, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with 6 easy routes, 16 moderate routes, and 21 more challenging options for experienced riders.

The traffic-free gravel routes in Ulster County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 19 reviews. Riders frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, the quiet and car-free experience, and the diverse terrain found across the trails, especially within the Catskill Mountains and Shawangunk Ridge areas.

Yes, several rail trails in Ulster County are excellent for families due to their smooth, car-free surfaces and relatively flat profiles. The Ashokan Rail Trail is a prime example, offering 11.5 miles of serene riding along the Ashokan Reservoir. It's a great option for a relaxed outing with children.

The terrain varies significantly across Ulster County. Rail trails like the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail offer smoother, packed gravel surfaces. However, routes within areas like Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park Preserve, such as the Mohonk Lake – Bonticou Crag Summit loop, feature more challenging carriage roads with steeper climbs and descents, requiring a gravel bike with good gearing or even a cross-country mountain bike.

Yes, Ulster County offers several excellent circular routes for gravel biking. For a challenging ride with rewarding views, consider the Mohonk Lake – Bonticou Crag Summit loop from Town of New Paltz or the Castle Point – Lake Minnewaska loop from Route 44/55 Overlook, both offering substantial climbs and scenic vistas.

Ulster County's trails are rich with natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can ride past the serene Lake Minnewaska, witness the impressive Awosting Falls, or even spot the Millbrook Mountain summit. The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail also features the iconic Rosendale Trestle, offering panoramic views 150 feet above the Rondout Creek.

Absolutely! The Minnewaska State Park Preserve area, which hosts several traffic-free carriage roads suitable for gravel biking, is home to beautiful waterfalls. You can visit Awosting Falls and Rainbow Falls, both offering picturesque stops along your ride.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes within Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park Preserve offer significant elevation gains and technical sections. Consider the Millbrook Mountain – View of Lake Minnewaska loop, which features over 700 meters of elevation gain, or the Bonticou Crag Summit – North Lookout, Mohonk Preserve loop for a demanding ride with rewarding views.

While many trailheads in Ulster County are primarily accessed by car, some rail trails, like sections of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, pass through towns such as New Paltz and Kingston, which may have limited public transport options. However, for most routes, especially those deep within the preserves, personal vehicle transport is generally recommended for convenience.

Ulster County is a four-season destination, but spring and fall offer ideal conditions for gravel biking. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall showcases spectacular foliage. Summer can be warm, so early morning rides are best. Winter riding is possible on some trails, especially the rail trails, but be prepared for snow and ice, and check local conditions.

Yes, beginners can enjoy the relatively flat and well-maintained surfaces of the rail trails. The Ashokan Rail Trail is an excellent choice, providing a smooth, scenic ride without significant climbs or technical challenges, making it perfect for those new to gravel biking or looking for a relaxed outing.