The best cycling routes in Highland Lakes State Park

Highland Lakes State Park is known for its undeveloped natural setting. Touring cyclists should be prepared for potentially unpaved, rugged, and unmaintained surfaces, which are more akin to gravel cycling or mountain biking than traditional touring on paved roads. The park features an informal network of trails and woodland roads through over 3,000 acres of forested land and several lakes.

Yes, Highland Lakes State Park offers routes suitable for various ability levels. Out of the 5 touring cycling routes available, 3 are classified as easy. An example of an easy route is the Chester Erie Depot Museum – Orange Heritage Trail loop from Village of Goshen, which connects to a local heritage trail.

The park encompasses extensive woodlands and several lakes, providing a tranquil atmosphere. A notable point of interest is the Highland Lakes Dam, which offers scenic views. You'll also find an easy loop trail around two ponds and a lake, perfect for enjoying the serene environment.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Highland Lakes State Park are designed as loops. For instance, the Echo Lake loop from City of Middletown offers scenic views of Echo Lake and the surrounding natural landscape on an easy 13.8-mile path.

The park's undeveloped nature means that conditions can vary seasonally. Spring and fall often offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. However, given the unmaintained trails, it's advisable to check local weather conditions and trail reports, especially after heavy rain or during winter, as surfaces can become more challenging.

While the park offers a secluded and tranquil experience, the unmaintained and rugged nature of many trails means that some routes might be more challenging for younger children or those on standard road bikes. However, there are easy routes available, such as the Chester Erie Depot Museum – Orange Heritage Trail loop from Village of Goshen, which could be suitable for families prepared for varied surfaces.

Highland Lakes State Park is generally dog-friendly, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural setting with their pets. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and ensure they are well-behaved, especially given the informal nature of the trails and potential for other users like hikers or horseback riders.

Highland Lakes State Park is largely undeveloped and lacks modern amenities. Visitors should be aware that there are no restrooms or cafes within the park itself. It's advisable to bring all necessary supplies, including water and snacks, and plan for facilities outside the park boundaries.

Parking at Highland Lakes State Park is limited. Due to its undeveloped nature, formal parking areas are scarce. It's recommended to research specific access points and parking options before your visit, keeping in mind that some trailheads might only offer informal or roadside parking.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 15 reviews. Reviewers often praise the park's secluded and tranquil atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape from crowded areas. The extensive woodlands and lakes are frequently highlighted for their natural beauty and the opportunity for an off-road cycling adventure.

The duration of routes varies depending on their length and difficulty. For example, an easy route like the Echo Lake loop from City of Middletown, which is 13.8 miles (22.2 km), typically takes around 1 hour 19 minutes. A moderate route, such as the Chester Erie Depot Museum loop from City of Middletown, covering 22.5 miles (36.3 km), might take about 2 hours 8 minutes.