Things to Do in Black Creek State Forest

Black Creek State Forest encompasses two distinct areas in New York State: one in Ulster County (595 acres) and another in Herkimer County (998 acres). Both locations offer opportunities for outdoor activities in a primitive forest setting, featuring diverse landscapes like woodlands, wetlands, streams, and hilly terrain.

Black Creek State Forest permits various activities including hiking, touring cycling, jogging, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and horseback riding. Freshwater fishing is also a featured activity in the Herkimer County location. Komoot offers guides for many of these activities, such as Hiking in Black Creek State Forest and Cycling in Black Creek State Forest.

In Ulster County, Black Creek State Forest itself does not have designated trails, but visitors can use unmarked paths. The adjacent Black Creek Preserve offers defined routes like the Ridge and Chodikee Trail Loop, which is 4.0 miles (6.4 km). The Herkimer County location features approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) of unpaved roads for exploration, but no formal hiking trails.

Cycling is permitted in both Black Creek State Forest locations. The Ulster County area, particularly near the Black Creek Preserve, offers routes like the Ridge and Chodikee Trail Loop suitable for cycling. In Herkimer County, unpaved roads can be used. Komoot provides guides such as Cycling in Black Creek State Forest and Traffic-free bike rides in Black Creek State Forest.

Mountain biking is allowed in both the Ulster and Herkimer County sections of Black Creek State Forest. While there are no dedicated mountain biking trails, unpaved roads and paths can be utilized. For more information, consult the MTB Trails in Black Creek State Forest guide on komoot.

While the state forest itself features primitive paths, adjacent areas like the Black Creek Preserve in Ulster County offer more accessible options. The Ridge and Chodikee Trail Loop is suitable for various skill levels. Komoot offers a specific guide for Family-friendly hikes in Black Creek State Forest.

The Ulster County location features critical wetlands, headwater streams, and a diverse forest with Eastern Hemlock and red maple. The nearby Black Creek Preserve includes a 120-foot (36.6 m) suspension bridge and vernal pools. The Herkimer County forest offers hilly views, streams, swamps, and ponds, with Black Creek flowing through its northeastern section.

Information regarding specific dog regulations for Black Creek State Forest is not detailed in the provided resources. Generally, state forests in New York allow dogs on leash, but visitors should verify current regulations with the NYSDEC for each specific location before visiting.

Black Creek State Forest is a popular destination among outdoor enthusiasts on komoot. It has attracted more than 4,000 visitors, with routes receiving an average rating of 4.69 out of 5 stars. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among users exploring the area.

Komoot provides several guides for Black Creek State Forest, covering various activities. These include Hiking, Cycling, Running, and Mountain Biking. There are also guides for specific types of experiences like Easy hikes and Traffic-free bike rides.

For the Ulster County location, contact the DEC Region 3 New Paltz Office at (845) 256-3076 during business hours. For the Herkimer County location, contact the DEC Region 6 Herkimer Office at (315) 866-6330 during business hours. For emergencies, call 911 or 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.