Road loops, touring, and cycling in Lake Placid

The Lake Placid region has more secondary roads and scenic tours than you can explore in a single trip to the area. Road cyclists can challenge themselves on the steep climbs of Styles Brook Road or take it easy on Riverside Drive as it parallels the Ausable River. The views are so spectacular that sometimes it’s hard to keep both wheels on the pavement. The now famous Ironman Lake Placid Loop brings cyclists to Lake Placid from all over the world and the Lake Champlain Bikeways routes offer visitors an opportunity to get acquainted with one of the Northeast’s most majestic bodies of water.

Adirondack cycling

Lake Placid and the surrounding area has something for every type of cyclist. You will enjoy stunning views, light traffic, and challenging terrain. Most routes can begin right in the center of town. Sit down with a good map to create your own unique cycling in Lake Placid adventure or stop into one of the bike shops in Lake Placid for a suggested route. When you're done on the road, head into town for some food, nightlife, entertainment, and a soft place to lay your head!

Bike safety and road etiquette

Just as we share beaches and hiking trails, we share roadways, too. We want everyone to have a fun, safe time in the Adirondacks, whether you're on a Cervelo, Schwinn, or cruising in your minivan. Here are some rules of the road and suggestions to ensure everyone has fun, safely.

  • Bicycles are considered vehicles just like cars and obey the same laws.

  • Cyclists may ride two or more abreast if space is available but must go single file when being overtaken by a vehicle.

  • Cyclists should ride as close to the right-side edge/curb as possible, but they are not required to ride in a designated bike lane or shoulder if it is not safe to do so (condition of pavement, too narrow, etc.)

  • Bicycles are not required to travel at a minimum speed.

To learn more about these rules, visit our page on Politely Adirondack Bike Safety.

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Wilmington Notch
Route 86, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

This stretch of road along Route 86 between Lake Placid and Wilmington follows the Ausable River for most of its length. There are tumbling rapids and towering mountains. Abundant pull-offs for picnicking and picture taking. Distance: 25 miles round trip.

  
Franklin Falls Loop
Main St, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

This is a scenic cruise around Whiteface and McKenzie mountains. Cycling Stunning beauty in any season, but especially striking in the fall, when crisp temperatures are perfect for longer, more strenuous routes. LENGTH: 46 miles. LOOP DIRECTIONS...

  
River Road
River Rd, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Cycling River Road boasts excellent views in both directions for a 4.1 mile one way or 8.2 mile down and back route. Running Run along the Ausable River as it flows in and out along the road. Catch breathtaking views of the High Peaks and Ski Jumps...

  
Ironman Loop
Lake Placid, Keene, Jay, Wilmington, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Cycling Cruise the hills of three towns and test yourself on the Ironman Bike Loop. Real Ironmen and Ironwomen do this twice! LENGTH: 56 mile loop. DIRECTIONS: Take Route 73 south out of Lake Placid, pass the Cascade Lakes, and head down the infamous...

  
Adirondack Loj Road
Adirondack Loj Road, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Enjoy one of the most scenic (and photographed!) roads in all of the Adirondack Park, lightly traveled and delightful in all seasons. In a valley ringed by the High Peaks. Paved, easy, 9.6 miles round trip. Services and recreation at Heart Lake.

  
Riverside Drive Loop
Rte 86 and Rte 73, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Begin or end the scenic possibilities with the high vantage point of the ski jumps' 120 meter tower. Follow the river with this quiet, flat loop with abundant photo opportunities. The Ausable River is on one side, and many brooks on the other. The...

  
Bear Cub in the woods
Bear Cub Road, Lake Placid
(518) 523-2445

Some extraordinarily beautiful sweeping vistas in what is still farm country, even in the High Peaks. Stop by the Uhlein Forest, home of the Cornell University Sugar Maple Research headquarters, and pick up some maple-y goodies. 6.2 miles there and back.

  
Between the Jays
6760 NY Route 86, Jay
(518) 523-2445

The famous Jay Covered Bridge is on this route, with the fabulous Jay Rocks as a backdrop. The winding country roads between Upper Jay and Jay offer a lovely mix of rugged mountains, river views, and sweeping meadows. Narrow shoulders, but low...

  
Lake Everest Loop
Route 86, Wilmington
(518) 523-2445

Circle the beauties of Lake Everest with this easy-riding road loop. Half of route is on a quiet road with little traffic. Services in Wilmington. LENGTH: 25 mile loop. DIRECTIONS: Starting from Lake Placid, take Route 86 east to Wilmington. Ride...

  
Rapid Descent Trail
5021 NYS Route 86, Wilmington
(518) 523-2445

Start at the easy landmark of the Whiteface Mountain Ski Center, and explore the back roads of the stunning Jay area. Don't miss the Jay Rapids and the famous covered bridge! 14 mile loop. Open views of the AuSable River and the Jay Range. Services in...

  
Black Brook Scenic Loop
Bonnieview Avenue, Wilmington
(518) 523-2445

Stunning scenery on the aptly named Bonnieview Avenue. Quiet two lane roads that are spectacular in the autumn. Scenic Drive LENGTH: 14.5 miles. Cycling DIRECTIONS: At the four way stop in the center of Wilmington, continue straight from Route 86...

  
Rapid Descent Trail
5021 NYS Route 86, Wilmington
(518) 523-2445

Start at the easy landmark of the Whiteface Mountain Ski Center, and explore the back roads of the stunning Jay area. Don't miss the Jay Rapids and the famous covered bridge! LENGTH: 20 mile loop with side trips. Open views of the AuSable River and...

  
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