The best cycling routes in Witch'S Hole State Forest
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Touring cycling routes in Witch'S Hole State Forest navigate a rugged and densely wooded landscape within the Shawangunk Ridge in Ulster County, New York. The area features challenging terrain and historic carriage roads, offering a unique experience for adventurous riders. Trails wind through thickets of mountain laurel and hemlock forest, providing a scenic backdrop. The forest's adjacency to Minnewaska State Park expands the network of potential cycling routes.
Best touring cycling routes in Witch'S Hole State Forest
- The most popular…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
1
riders
52.8km
04:20
880m
880m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
40.3km
02:42
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
riders
41.1km
02:33
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
65.9km
04:30
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
riders
27.4km
02:40
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Awosting Falls is always gorgeous, regardless of season and recent rainfall. It is an easy walk from the parking lot with other little falls and pools on the way up, making it a great trail for small kids. You can see the falls from both the top and bottom via a short trail.
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Situated in the Catskill Mountains, about 75 miles northwest of New York City, the Rondout Reservoir plays a crucial role in the city's water supply system. It spans the towns of Wawarsing in Ulster County and Neversink in Sullivan County, serving as the primary gathering point for the city's Delaware System, which furnishes half of its daily water needs. From this bridge you get a lovely wide view of the reservoir below.
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The Bald Eagle Viewing Area at Rondout Reservoir offers a captivating wildlife experience. Visitors may witness the majestic Bald Eagles soaring above the scenic reservoir, showcasing their impressive wing spans. The area's diverse ecosystem also supports other bird species, creating a rich and rewarding habitat for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
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Head north off of the road for a couple of minutes to find the pretty waterfall. A great spot to take a shaded break off of the bike and cool off.
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The Bald Eagle Viewing Area at Rondout Reservoir offers a captivating wildlife experience. Visitors may witness the majestic Bald Eagles soaring above the scenic reservoir, showcasing their impressive wing spans. The area's diverse ecosystem also supports other bird species, creating a rich and rewarding habitat for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
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Lippman Park is home to a bunch of trails that were designed with mountain biking in mind. Foot traffic is still allowed on the trails, but it's probably best to step aside for all bikes regardless of the scenario since we are out in their territory. The singletrack trails are still fantastic for hiking and running, and there are a bunch of different loop options. The trails aren't super well-marked, though, so it's probably best to take your komoot map with you.
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Lippman Park is a lovely setting to enjoy nature. The park is approximately 115 acres, with a small lake. There are also approximately 15 miles of single track mountain bike trails here, with varying levels of difficulty. The Renegades Mountain Bike Club have developed the trails.
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Lippman Park is a lovely setting to enjoy nature. The park is approximately 115 acres, with a small lake. There are also approximately 15 miles of singletrack mountain bike trails here, with varying levels of difficulty. The Renegades Mountain Bike Club have developed the trails.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling in Witch's Hole State Forest?
Witch's Hole State Forest offers a rugged and densely wooded landscape, characterized by steep, mountainous terrain within the Shawangunk Ridge. You'll find trails winding through thickets of mountain laurel and hemlock forest, providing a challenging and scenic backdrop for your ride. Many routes utilize historic carriage roads, which can offer a smoother surface amidst the more rugged sections.
Are there any routes suitable for moderate touring cyclists?
Yes, there are routes for moderate ability levels. For example, the Red Barns at Lippman Park loop from Town of Wawarsing is a moderate 20.5 km trail that takes about 1 hour 48 minutes to complete. Another moderate option is the O&W Rail Trail: Kerhonkson-Kingston Loop, which is a longer 65.8 km route.
What are some of the longer, more challenging touring cycling routes in the area?
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Lake Maratanza, Awosting Lake and Awosting Falls from Ellenville route is a difficult 52.8 km journey exploring lakes and waterfalls. Another demanding option is the Springtown Truss Bridge – Nice old railway bridge with a view loop from Kerhonkson, spanning 59.4 km.
Can I connect to other trail networks from Witch's Hole State Forest?
Yes, Witch's Hole State Forest is adjacent to Minnewaska State Park, which provides access to a larger network of trails and expands your touring possibilities significantly. The Old Smiley Carriage Road, accessible from Berme Road Town Park in Ellenville, passes through the southern portion of Minnewaska State Park, offering a direct connection.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural features to look out for while cycling?
While cycling, you'll be immersed in dense woodlands. The area offers various viewpoints, such as Napanoch Point (located within the adjacent Minnewaska State Park Preserve), which provides panoramic vistas of the rugged landscape. The Lake Maratanza, Awosting Lake and Awosting Falls from Ellenville route specifically highlights lakes and waterfalls.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
The forest is home to a diverse array of wildlife. You might spot turkey, deer, and even larger animals like bear and bobcat. Birdwatchers can look out for bald eagles, ospreys, and various owl species, offering opportunities for wildlife observation during your tour.
Is primitive camping allowed for multi-day touring adventures?
Yes, primitive camping is permitted in Witch's Hole State Forest. If you're planning a multi-day touring adventure, ensure your campsite is at least 150 feet away from roads, trails, or water to comply with regulations and enjoy a secluded experience.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Witch's Hole State Forest?
The routes in Witch's Hole State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Over 50 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied and challenging terrain, often praising the rugged beauty and the sense of wilderness the area provides.
Are there any routes that connect different state forests?
Yes, the Lippman Park and Vernooy Kill State Forest loop via Kerhonkson is a difficult 40.2 km path that connects two state forests, offering varied terrain and diverse forest scenery for touring cyclists.
What should I know about parking for touring cycling in Witch's Hole State Forest?
While specific parking areas within Witch's Hole State Forest are not detailed, access points like Berme Road Town Park in Ellenville, which leads to the Old Smiley Carriage Road, are common starting points for exploring the area and its connections to Minnewaska State Park. It's advisable to check local municipal parking options near these access points.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Witch's Hole State Forest?
The rugged and densely wooded terrain of Witch's Hole State Forest is best enjoyed during spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer more favorable weather conditions and allow for better navigation of the trails. Fall foliage can be particularly stunning, adding to the scenic beauty of your ride.
Most popular routes in Witch'S Hole State Forest
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