The best road cycling routes in Washington County

Road cycling in Washington County features a diverse landscape of rolling hills, forested areas, and scenic waterways. Routes often traverse rural settings, offering views of agricultural lands and natural features. You'll find a mix of moderate climbs and longer, flatter sections, suitable for various cycling experiences.

There are over 18 road cycling routes available in Washington County, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring options for different skill levels and preferences.

Yes, Washington County offers several challenging routes for experienced riders. For instance, the Schoolhouse Lake – Cement Mountain loop from Greenwich and Johnsonville is a difficult 72.4-mile trail with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Scotch Hill – Dead Lake loop from Emmaus House, a difficult 68.2-mile path featuring substantial climbs.

For a moderate challenge, consider the Lake Sunnyside – Beautiful restpoint loop from Buck Mt / Pilot Knob Parking Area, which is 31.3 miles long and takes about 2 hours 20 minutes. Another popular moderate route is the SVT Ringmaster loop from Bus Parking Lot, covering 99.1 miles.

Many road cycling routes in Washington County are loops, providing convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the difficult Schoolhouse Lake – Cement Mountain loop from Greenwich and Johnsonville and the moderate Lake Sunnyside – Beautiful restpoint loop from Buck Mt / Pilot Knob Parking Area.

Washington County's routes offer views of various natural features. You might encounter lakes like Bumps Pond and Inman Pond, as well as scenic viewpoints such as the Lake George Overlook Gazebo and Inman Pond Overlook. Some routes also pass by waterfalls like Shelving Rock Falls and Blue Trail Waterfall.

The road cycling routes in Washington County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. Over 600 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic views and diverse landscapes.

Yes, the Glens Falls Feeder Canal – Champlain Valley Trail loop from Village of Argyle is a difficult 67.6-mile route that incorporates sections along historic waterways like the Glens Falls Feeder Canal and the Champlain Canalway Trail, offering unique scenic views.

While specific seasonal recommendations vary, the diverse landscapes of Washington County, including forested areas and agricultural lands, suggest pleasant riding conditions during spring, summer, and especially fall when autumn colors are vibrant. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, the Eldridge Swamp State Forest loop from Village of Cambridge is a moderate 24.3-mile route that takes you through the natural beauty of Eldridge Swamp State Forest.

Many routes in Washington County traverse rural settings, connecting natural features with charming local communities. For example, the St. Mary's Church – Elk's Preserve loop from Fort Edward-Glens Falls offers a moderate 35.5-mile ride that combines scenic landscapes with points of interest in and around towns.