Riding Among the Pines in the Adirondack Park
Honoring World Bicycle Day in the Adirondacks, and all year long.
There’s no better way to celebrate World Bicycle Day—June 3—than by hopping on two wheels (or one or three) and exploring one of the most scenic, bike-friendly regions in the northeastern United States: the Adirondack Park.
With over six million acres of gorgeous wilderness, charming small towns, and a growing network of multi-use trails and cycling routes, the Adirondacks are fast becoming a destination of choice for cyclists of all levels.
Whether you’re craving a quiet ride through forested trails, a lung-burning mountain climb, or a family-friendly loop with lake views, there’s a route in the Adirondacks waiting for your tires.
Why the Adirondacks are a cyclist’s dream.
The Adirondack Park is a unique gem. It’s the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous United States, offering a rare blend of natural wilderness and rural communities.
Cyclists enjoy a diverse range of scenic options: quiet country roads that meander past farms and waterfalls, paved rail trails tracing historic train routes, and challenging climbs with thrilling descents. This unique blend of nature and culture makes the Adirondacks a dream destination for cyclists.
Enjoy the trail.
The region’s crisp, clean mountain air, vibrant wildlife, and access to accommodations ranging from campgrounds to cozy B&Bs and boutique hotels make it easy to extend your ride into a true Adirondack adventure.
June is the perfect time to visit the Adirondacks. It's prime cycling season, with wildflowers in bloom, mild temperatures, and the summer crowds yet to arrive in full force.
For bikers looking to ride in peace and soak in nature’s soundtrack—chirping warblers, whispering pines, and the rhythmic hum of tires on gravel—the Adirondacks in early June offer a serene experience that's hard to beat.
Frankly, though, the Adirondacks are a perfect destination any time during cycling season.
Top Adirondack cycling trails & routes
There are thousands of miles of bike routes to explore in the ADK, but here are just a few recommendations to get you started.
Adirondack Rail Trail (Lake Placid to Saranac Lake and beyond)
One of the most exciting recent developments for Adirondack cyclists is the Adirondack Rail Trail. Still under phased development, this multi-use trail currently connects Lake Placid to Saranac Lake via a beautifully maintained gravel path ideal for hybrid bikes and gravel grinders.
The 9-mile stretch is ideal for families, beginners, and anyone seeking a peaceful, car-free ride through the woods and wetlands.
The Adirondack Rail Trail in the Tri-Lake and High Peaks Adirondack region.
The second phase extends the trail an additional 16 miles between Saranac Lake and Floodwood Road, near Floodwood Pond.
Once complete, the trail will extend over 30 miles to Tupper Lake, offering an uninterrupted biking corridor through the heart of the Tri-Lakes region. Keep your eyes peeled for loons on the water and deer darting through the forest—this is actual wilderness cycling.
Warren County Bikeway (Glens Falls to Lake George)
This 10-mile paved bikeway begins in Glens Falls and winds north to the bustling lakeside village of Lake George. It’s ideal for a leisurely ride with plenty of scenic and historic interest along the way.
Riders pass by old railroad depots, Revolutionary War markers, and shady rest areas. The trail ends at Battlefield Park in Lake George Village, perfect for a post-ride dip at Million Dollar Beach or a lakeside lunch.
The Warren County Bikeway is not only one of the most accessible trails in the region, but also one of the most family-friendly. Its proximity to major highways makes it a great day trip for visitors from Albany or the Capital Region, and its leisurely 10-mile paved path is perfect for riders of all ages and skill levels.
Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway (Wilmington to Whiteface Summit)
For those craving a challenge, few routes in the East rival the climb up Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway. Starting in Wilmington, this 8-mile ascent to the summit of Whiteface Mountain (New York’s fifth-highest peak) is a rite of passage for serious cyclists.
The elevation gain is over 3,500 feet, and while the climb is steep, the reward is staggering: sweeping views across the Adirondacks, Lake Placid, and even into Canada on a clear day.
Unicyclist attempts the Whiteface Uphill Bike Race.
Keep in mind that the toll road is open to cyclists before cars at certain times in the morning during the summer. Plan your ride accordingly for safety and serenity.
Great Camp Santanoni Mountain Bike Ride
Camp Santanoni’s storied road has always been a popular mountain bike ride, and now you can pair that ride with a fully guided experience of all three of the site’s historic complexes.
Photo courtesy Great Camp Santanoni.
Join a Santanoni Interpretive Coordinator for this special “bring your own bike” experience that takes you to Santanoni’s Gate Lodge, Farm Complex, and scenic Main Camp overlooking Newcomb Lake.
Start your day with a brief orientation to Camp Santanoni, the only publicly owned Adirondack Great Camp and one of the region’s most treasured historic places. Then, learn some of the secrets of the Gate Lodge, West Cottage, and the surrounding landscape before setting off on the road.
Visit the Great Camp Santanoni web page to learn more.
Essex County Road Rides (Keene, Elizabethtown, Jay)
The rolling countryside of Essex County and the Champlain Valley is a favorite among road cyclists. Smooth pavement, low traffic, and sweeping mountain views make it a joy to explore.
Biking in the Champlain Valley. Photo courtesy Bike Adirondacks.
The route from Keene to Elizabethtown, passing through Jay and Upper Jay, is particularly beloved for its blend of gentle rollers and photogenic scenery. Stop at local cafés, art galleries, or even cool off in the Ausable River after your ride.
Don’t miss the Bike the Barns event in September. It’s an incredible opportunity for a cycling excursion that also includes local food producers. If you’re a biker and a foodie, don’t miss this event.
Tips for biking in the Adirondacks.
Bring the right bike. Road bikes are great for paved routes, but many trails involve gravel or packed dirt. Consider a gravel bike or hybrid for versatility.
Check for trail updates. Some rail trails are currently under construction or may be temporarily closed due to weather conditions. Local tourism boards and trail websites offer updated conditions.
Be wildlife-aware. You're in black bear and moose country. Carry snacks in sealed containers and keep a respectful distance from any animals you encounter.
Pack layers. Mountain weather changes quickly—even in June. Bring a light rain jacket and sun protection.
When cycling in the Adirondacks, it's essential to support local businesses. Whether it's stopping at a bike shop for a quick tune-up, grabbing a bite at a local café, or picking up fresh produce at a market along your route, your cyclist dollars help sustain the small Adirondack communities that make the region so special.
Follow the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. Discover this essential framework of minimal-impact practices for anyone visiting the Adirondacks. Each Principle addresses a specific topic and offers detailed information to help you reduce your impacts.
Celebrate on two (or one or three) wheels.
World Bicycle Day (and every day) isn't just about riding—it's about recognizing how bikes contribute to a healthier planet and more connected communities. The Adirondacks embody these values, offering greenways, community investment in bike infrastructure, and a deep appreciation for the land.
So whether you're pedaling through pine-scented trails near Tupper Lake or climbing toward the clouds on Whiteface, take a moment to appreciate the simple joy of two wheels and the spectacular setting of the Adirondack Park. The ride, as they say, is the destination.
Take a look at our events calendar for information on upcoming cycling events in the Adirondacks.
Shop for unique Adirondack apparel, gifts and merchandise.
Let ADK Taste help you find what you’re looking for in the Adirondacks.
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