Onteora Lake – Onteora Lake Trail loop from Rock Oak Preserve
Onteora Lake – Onteora Lake Trail loop from Rock Oak Preserve
4.6
(8202)
8,203
riders
Onteora Lake – Onteora Lake Trail loop from Rock Oak Preserve
03:24
38.6km
460m
Mountain biking
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Catskill Park
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.15 km
Onteora Lake
Highlight • Lake
Originally, the lake was created …
Tip by
1.23 km
Picnic Table With a View of Onteora Lake
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
27.6 km
Jockey Hill–Wintergreen Parking Area
Highlight • Parking
There are multiple mountain biking and hiking trails here, of varying levels of difficulty.
Tip by
34.0 km
Overturned Car in Bluestone Wild Forest
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
34.0 km
Onteora Lake Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
38.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
34.5 km
1.86 km
1.17 km
812 m
246 m
Surfaces
25.4 km
9.82 km
1.61 km
812 m
488 m
446 m
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Elevation
Highest point (190 m)
Lowest point (130 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 11 June
30°C
20°C
59 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Onteora Lake – Onteora Lake Trail loop from Rock Oak Preserve is one of those mountain biking routes that truly delivers a diverse experience, especially if you're an intermediate rider looking for varied terrain. This moderate 24.0-mile (38.6 km) ride, with 1495 feet (456 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 24 minutes, offering a solid workout and plenty of scenic views.
What to expect on Onteora Lake – Onteora Lake Trail loop from Rock Oak Preserve
You'll start on nice crushed bluestone near the trailhead, then transition to doubletrack with rocky sections as you wind around Onteora Lake. Keep an eye out for the tranquil lake views and the mixed hardwood and conifer forests. The route then delves into the Bluestone Wild Forest, where you'll find a mix of smooth sections and small rocky patches, particularly along the Bluestone Trail. The 2019 reroutes added fun flow sections with jumps and berms, making for an engaging ride. This trail system is best suited for intermediate mountain bikers who enjoy a mix of terrain and don't mind some technical sections.
Planning your visit
The initial section of the Onteora Lake Loop Trail near the parking lot is accessible, with amenities like a picnic area and fishing platform. While the area is generally open, be aware that it's popular with hunters; it's wise to avoid riding during daylight hours in deer season (mid-November to mid-December). Summer rides can also be buggy, so plan accordingly. Parking for the Onteora Lake Trail loop from Rock Oak Preserve is usually available at the preserve trailhead.
Trail details
- Distance: 24.0 miles (38.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 1495 feet (456 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 24 minutes
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