Lake Placid has variety
Over the years, the Lake Placid region has emerged as a popular destination for those seeking a unique biking experience. During the warmer months, recreational riders and athletes from around the world descend on the area to enjoy views of New York's highest peaks while exploring the varied terrain here.
Biking opportunities for cycling in the region are as diverse as the sport itself. From easy, level cruisers to white-knuckled drops, there's something to suit any skill level. Our paved roads roll, coast, and climb past villages, mountains, and streams, while our ever-expanding network of singletrack trails will get legs — and heart rates — pumping. Riders can test themselves on the official Ironman Lake Placid bike course, head out for a beginner mountain biking lesson at Mount Van Hoevenberg, or opt for something that falls somewhere in between.
Road bike routes and loops
Lake Placid's cycling loops and tours are immersed in the stunning Adirondack landscape. There are lots of ways to see the scenery, and there's so much of it anything from a one- to five-hour trek will do. There are even options to combine the shorter routes to make an epic, all-day ride. The area has some classic, and incredible, cycling experiences, like flying down to the town of Keene through Cascade Pass, or the incredible panoramic mountain views close to town on Bear Cub Road.
Mountain bike trails
Lake Placid is home to an extensive singletrack trail network developed through a collaborative effort between local landowners and a hard working mountain bike advocacy group called the Barkeater Trails Alliance. The singletrack trails here were designed with many skill levels in mind, and they're so close to town riders might not even have to get in their cars to get there. It's easy to see why the mountain biking culture in Lake Placid and the surrounding area is growing exponentially each year.
The region's newest trails represent modern trends in mountain biking. The Lake Placid Club and Resort property's mountain bike trails, the Lussi Trails, were updated in 2014. Better drainage was installed and work to improve the flow took place all summer long. Similarly, the trails surrounding the town of North Elba's Craig Wood Golf Course are smooth, fast, and flowing. The two networks are easily connected by the Jackrabbit Trail for all-day riding. Next time you're here, stop by one of Lake Placid's great bike shops for a map and the most current information to guide you through all of the trails' many twists and turns.
Other Adirondack biking
Looking for even more riding? Head to the nearby Whiteface Region, the Biking Capital of the Adirondacks. Located on the other side of the rugged Wilmington Notch, the Whiteface Region has top-notch mountain biking terrain and cycling routes. The favorite, Franklin Falls Road Loop, provides riders with a sampling of the area's scenic beauty.
The Whiteface Region also plays host to the popular Wilmington Bike Festival each year, which includes the 3,500 foot Uphill Road Race to the top of Whiteface Mountain and the grueling Wilmington/Whiteface 100K Mountain Bike Race.
Click the banner below for more information on biking in the Adirondacks including events, routes, tours, and more!
Prepare for adventure
Whatever Adirondack cycling adventure you choose to embark on, remember to observe the rules of the road — and the woods. If you need riding gear or just want some invaluable local knowledge, consult one of the many Lake Placid bike shops or guide services. They can outfit you with equipment, routes, trail maps, and instruction for individuals and groups.
Leave No Trace and Love Your ADK
The magic of the Adirondacks is the result of previous generations taking a long view and protecting the mountains, lakes, and rivers within the Blue Line. That tradition continues today as we support and encourage everyone to practice Leave No Trace ethics, which help protect the lands and waters of the Adirondacks.
