The best cycling routes in Franklin County

Franklin County offers a good selection of touring cycling routes, with over 20 routes available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging long-distance tours.

Touring cycling in Franklin County is defined by its extensive lake systems, dense forests, and the scenic Adirondack Rail Trail. You'll find routes that traverse beautiful areas, passing by prominent lakes such as Saranac Lake, Lake Placid, and Fish Creek Pond, offering a mix of paved roads and dedicated trails.

The routes in Franklin County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 30 reviews. Over 400 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic beauty and well-maintained paths.

Yes, Franklin County has several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Adirondack Rail Trail loop from Village of Saranac Lake is an easy 12.6-mile path offering a gentle ride through the scenic Adirondack landscape. Another easy option is the Fish Creek Pond loop from Rollins Pond Campground, which is about 9.6 miles long.

For experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, the Colby Lake Bridge – Little Clear Pond loop from Saranac Lake is a difficult 46.3-mile trail leading through forested areas and past multiple lakes, typically completed in about 4 hours 51 minutes. This route features significant elevation changes.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Franklin County are designed as loops. Popular circular routes include the Saranac Lake and Lake Placid Loop via Adirondack Rail Trail, the Adirondack Rail Trail loop from Village of Saranac Lake, and the Lake Flower – Colby Lake Bridge loop from Lake Clear.

You can expect to cycle through diverse landscapes, including extensive forests, rolling terrain, and alongside numerous lakes. The region is characterized by its natural beauty, offering views of the Adirondack wilderness and serene waters.

Absolutely. Many routes pass by prominent lakes such as Lake Colby, Lower Saranac Lake, Lake Placid, and Fish Creek Pond. You'll also encounter sections of the Adirondack Rail Trail, offering unique perspectives of the region's natural and historical features.

While the cycling routes themselves might not go directly over major summits, the region is home to several notable peaks. You can find nearby highlights like Ampersand Mountain, Whiteface Mountain, and Coney Mountain Summit, which offer opportunities for hiking or scenic views off the bike.

Yes, a popular moderate route is the Saranac Lake and Lake Placid Loop via Adirondack Rail Trail. This 20.3-mile trail takes about 2 hours 4 minutes to complete and efficiently connects two major lakes via a dedicated rail trail, offering a balanced ride for those with some experience.

Yes, the Adirondack Rail Trail loop from Village of Saranac Lake is an excellent option. This 12.6-mile easy path provides a dedicated experience on the rail trail, showcasing the scenic Adirondack landscape without significant elevation changes.

Certainly. The Lake Colby – Colby Lake Bridge loop from Village of Saranac Lake is a moderate 15.4-mile route that takes you around Lake Colby, offering beautiful lakeside views and a pleasant cycling experience.