The best cycling routes around Syracuse
4.4
(14)
171
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19
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Touring cycling around Syracuse, New York, offers a diverse landscape characterized by serene lakes, historic canals, and rolling hills. The region provides a variety of trails, from flat, paved paths along waterways to more challenging routes through forested areas and agricultural lands. This environment supports a range of cycling experiences, catering to different skill levels and interests.
Best touring cycling routes around Syracuse
- The most popular touring cycling route is Onondaga Creekwalk and Loop the Lake Trail, a 21.2 miles (34.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 56 minutes to complete. This easy route offers scenic views of Onondaga Lake and connects several local parks.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Erie Canalway Trail (Syracuse to Dewitt), an easy 14.3 miles (23.0 km) path. This historic towpath provides a mostly flat ride through varied terrain, including paved and gravel sections.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Erie Canalway Trail – Erie Canalway Trail loop from Syracuse, a 22.6 miles (36.3 km) trail leading through historic canal landscapes, often completed in about 2 hours 8 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Syracuse is defined by historic canals, expansive lakes, and rolling hills. The network offers options for both leisurely rides and more challenging routes with elevation changes.
- The routes in Syracuse are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Syracuse's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
3.5
(4)
19
riders
34.1km
01:57
70m
70m
Cycle the easy 21.2-mile Onondaga Creekwalk and Loop the Lake Trail for urban sights and scenic views of Onondaga Lake.
19
riders
22.7km
01:24
50m
50m
Embark on an easy touring cycling adventure along the Erie Canalway Trail from DeWitt to Chittenango. This 14.1-mile (22.7 km) route offers scenic views of the historic canal, wetlands, and diverse wildlife, making for a pleasant ride that takes about 1 hour and 23 minutes. You will experience mostly flat terrain with a mix of paved and stonedust surfaces, gaining only 168 feet (51 metres) in elevation, and can spot historic structures like the Limestone Creek Aqueduct along the way.
When planning your visit, be aware that there are no direct services like cafes or bike rentals along this specific section of the trail. However, both DeWitt and Chittenango offer amenities and parking, making it easy to decide where to start and end your journey. You can find everything you need in these towns before or after your ride, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience.
This section of the Erie Canalway Trail is part of the larger Old Erie Canal State Historic Park, highlighting its historical significance. As you cycle, you are tracing a path rich in history, following the route of the old canal. The trail also passes near Green Lakes State Park, known for its unique glacial lakes, offering another point of interest if you wish to extend your exploration in the area.
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4
riders
23.0km
01:19
40m
40m
Cycle the easy 14.3-mile Erie Canalway Trail from Syracuse to Dewitt, enjoying historic canal views, diverse terrain, and urban connections.
4.0
(1)
23
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
riders
17.2km
00:59
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Syracuse
Tips from the Community
This trail is the best thing about Syracuse! Can’t get enough of it and am constantly going back. Well maintained, beautiful and stunning
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There's a turnoff from the Onondaga Creekwalk to Franklin Square, the park that marks an old industrial neighborhood, now revitalized for residential and commercial use. Technically, this is part of the Lakefront neighborhood.
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There's a turnoff from the Onondaga Creekwalk to Franklin Square, the park that marks an old industrial neighborhood, now revitalized for residential and commercial use. Technically, this is part of the Lakefront neighborhood.
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All told this paved multi-use trail runs 4.8 miles alongside the creek, through Syracuse and on to Onondaga Lake. It takes you past some of Syracuse's most famous landmarks, including the century-old Onondaga Park.
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This cute little park sits right alongside the old Erie Canal. It's a good picnic spot or turnaround point for the Erie Canalway Trail, which is just on the other side of the water. If you wanted to, you could ride all the way from Albany to Buffalo along the local canal trails, but not all parts of those trails will be as pretty as this area, since they travel through the cities and the water isn't always visible.
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You wouldn't know it by looking at the paved trail beneath you or the boulevard on either side, but this route used to follow the path of the historic Erie Canal. Today, it's a great cycling route along the grassy verge. If you wanted to, you could ride all the way from Albany to Buffalo.
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This trail/tow path mostly follows the route of the old, historic Erie Canal. Along this portion you can see where the original canal was enlarged, along with some beautiful stonework and a good look at a wide area in the canal called Cedar Bay. The trail here is paved, but some parts of the Erie Canalway Trail are hard-packed dirt and gravel.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Syracuse?
There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Syracuse, offering a diverse range of experiences. Most of these, about 16, are rated as easy, making the region accessible for various skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Syracuse?
Syracuse's touring cycling routes feature a mix of landscapes. You'll find flat, paved paths along serene lakes and historic canals, as well as more challenging routes through rolling hills and forested areas. The region offers both paved and gravel sections, catering to different preferences.
What do other cyclists say about touring cycling in Syracuse?
The touring cycling routes around Syracuse are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic views, the historical significance of the canal routes, and the variety of terrain available.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Syracuse?
Yes, many routes are ideal for beginners and families. The Onondaga Creekwalk and Loop the Lake Trail is an easy 21.2-mile route offering scenic lake views and connecting several parks. Another excellent option is the Erie Canalway Trail (Syracuse to Dewitt), a mostly flat, 14.3-mile path with both paved and gravel sections, perfect for a relaxed ride.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in the Syracuse area?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. For instance, the Erie Canalway Trail – Erie Canalway Trail loop from Syracuse is a 22.6-mile route that allows you to experience the historic canal landscapes in a convenient loop. Another option is the Onodaga Lake (East Shore) – Willow Bay loop from Village of Liverpool, which offers a shorter 7.5-mile lakeside ride.
What are some scenic highlights or attractions I can see along touring cycling routes?
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Along your rides, you can encounter stunning lakes like Onondaga Lake, Green Lake, and Glacier Lake, known for their unique turquoise waters. The historic Erie Canalway Trail features structures like the Limestone Creek Aqueduct. You can also explore areas like Green Lakes State Park and Thornden Park.
Are there touring cycling routes with significant elevation gain for a more challenging ride?
While many routes are easy, the Finger Lakes region, including areas near Syracuse, is known for its rolling hills. For a more challenging experience, consider routes that venture into the Pompey Hills, which offer steep climbs and fast descents with rewarding farmland views. These routes provide excellent training opportunities for experienced cyclists.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Syracuse?
The warmer months, from spring through fall, are generally the most popular for touring cycling in Syracuse. During these seasons, you can enjoy the region's diverse landscapes, from spring blossoms to vibrant fall foliage. The parks and forests offer different experiences with each changing season.
Are there touring cycling routes that offer opportunities to see wildlife?
Yes, routes that pass through state parks and forests, such as Green Lakes State Park and areas with old-growth forests, can offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. The diverse ecosystems around Syracuse, including lake shores and wooded areas, provide habitats for various species.
Are there any touring cycling routes that connect to urban areas or public transport?
The Onondaga Creekwalk provides an urban route that showcases Syracuse's bike infrastructure and neighborhoods, connecting directly to the Loop the Lake Trail. This integration allows for easy access from the city and can link to public transport options within Syracuse.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Syracuse?
Many touring cycling routes in Syracuse start or pass through state parks and public access points, which typically offer designated parking facilities. For example, routes around Onondaga Lake and along the Erie Canalway Trail often have convenient parking available at trailheads or nearby parks.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling options that include the Erie Canal?
Yes, the Erie Canal Trail is a significant draw for long-distance touring. The Erie Canalway Trail spans 365 miles, with a large portion being off-road. You can connect to sections like the Erie Canalway Trail (Syracuse to Dewitt) to experience this historic waterway, which is suitable for all ages and abilities for extended rides.
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