The best traffic-free bike rides in Ontario County

Our guide features 5 carefully selected no-traffic gravel bike routes in Ontario County, ranging from easy to difficult. These routes offer a great way to explore the region's diverse landscapes away from vehicle traffic.

Ontario County's gravel trails offer a mix of terrain, from relatively flat canal paths to rolling hills. You'll find routes like the Erie Canal Pittsford – Fairport NY Erie Canal loop with minimal elevation gain, to more challenging options such as the Canadice Lake View – Canadice Lake loop which features over 500 meters of elevation gain, providing varied experiences for all skill levels.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The Erie Canal Pittsford – Fairport NY Erie Canal loop is an easy, 21 km route with minimal elevation, perfect for a relaxed family outing. The Erie Canalway Trail sections are generally flat and well-maintained, offering a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.

While riding no-traffic gravel trails, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region. The Canadice Lake View – Canadice Lake loop offers stunning views of Canadice Lake, one of the pristine Finger Lakes. You might also encounter interesting historical features like the Ruins on the Ontario Pathways Rail Trail, or the picturesque Boathouses at Canandaigua City Pier if you venture near Canandaigua Lake.

Spring, summer, and fall are generally the best seasons for gravel biking in Ontario County. Spring brings lush greenery, while summer offers warm weather perfect for lakeside rides. Autumn is particularly beautiful with vibrant fall foliage, especially in areas like the Bristol Hills and around the Finger Lakes. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, all the no-traffic gravel bike routes featured in this guide are circular loops. This allows for convenient starting and ending points, such as the Pittsford town – Erie Canalway Trail loop from Village of Fairport, making it easy to plan your ride without needing a return trip arrangement.

Parking is typically available at various access points along the Erie Canalway Trail, such as in the villages of Fairport and Pittsford. For routes around the Finger Lakes or in state forests, designated parking areas or trailheads are usually provided. Always look for official parking signs and facilities.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Ontario County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free nature of the trails, the beautiful scenery of the Finger Lakes region, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Canadice Lake View – Canadice Lake loop from Hemlock is a difficult 40 km route with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding workout and stunning lake views. Another moderate option is the Fairport NY Erie Canal – Bridge over the Erie Canal loop, which covers over 53 km with over 360 meters of climbing.

Yes, for more detailed information about the natural resources and recreational opportunities in Ontario County, you can visit the official county website. They provide valuable insights into the region's environmental features and public lands. You can find more information at ontariocountyny.gov/Natural-Resources.

Beyond the Erie Canalway Trail, Ontario County is home to other notable trail systems. The Ontario Pathways system is popular for multi-surface riding, and areas like the Hemlock-Canadice State Forest and Ontario County Park at Gannett Hill offer more rugged terrain suitable for gravel cyclists looking for climbs and scenic rewards.