Some of the regions most incredible cycling is based in the Champlain Valley. Not only can you experience the rich agricultural heritage of the area, but you'll get to soak in views of both New York's Adirondack and Vermont's Green Mountains while you ride.
Speaking of Vermont, the bonus of booking a custom tour is the Champlain Valley is (if desired) you'll be able to ride routes that take you into the Green Mountain State by ferry, bridge or both.
Here's how it works:
The Village of Schroon Lake is the perfect base for a wide variety of road cycling options. Circle the lake of the same name and take it easy, or climb into the surrounding Adirondack hills and explore backroads where you will seldom see a car. After your ride is done, relax in one of the great restaurants in town, or get some takeout and head down to the beautiful town park and beach. Extend your trip with a hike into the backwoods, a visit to the Paradox craft brewery, or one of the other great attractions nearby. Plus it’s all right off I-87!
It is a local fact that the best road cycling in the Adirondack High Peaks region starts and finishes in Wilmington, home of Whiteface - the 1980 Olympic Mountain. Anchored by the mountain and the stunning Ausable River, this picturesque community is about as good as it gets for a fall cycling weekend, not to mention the miles and miles of low traffic backroads just waiting for you to ride and "leaf peep" on.
Saranac Lake is as genuine and Adirondack community as it gets. Picture a postcard perfect downtown complete with unique shops, eateries and more galleries than any place in upstate New York. And that's just the ground level, this friendly community is also home to the Adirondack Carousel, its own community owned department store and a giant sea serpent made out of recycled metal. Trust us, there's a good reason why Saranac Lake is "Decidedly Different."
Cooler temperatures, stunning fall foliage, the absence of annoying bugs, and about 25 miles of top-grade, machine-built and hand-built trails will combine to make the Adirondack Mountain Bike Festival a spectacular autumn event and one that should be at the top of people’s list of seasonal activities to check out.
NOTE: Registration will remain open for the whole month and miles can be added retroactively.
North Creek is the perfect starting point for great cycling in the southern Adirondacks, whether you’re looking for pavement or gravel-based adventures. High quality lodging and dining options, plus hiking, river rafting, and other tourist attractions add up to a wealth of choices for a fun weekend.
Dates: August 22
Location: Saranac Lake
Mileage: 25, 50 or Century
Dates: August 9-12 & September 6-9
Location: Raquette Lake
For over a decade, Ride for the River has been a do-not-miss celebration of the stunning Ausable River watershed. Featuring multiple breathtaking route options, the event also hosts a 20-mile "tailgater" group ride on July 11 for those who'd like to come into town a day or two early to make it a weekend.