The best traffic-free bike rides in California Hill State Forest

There are 3 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in California Hill State Forest, offering a range of experiences from easy to moderate difficulty.

The routes primarily feature dirt and gravel roads, along with unpaved forest access roads. You'll encounter moderate elevation changes, with terrain varying from mellow forest roads to more rugged doubletrack. This provides a backcountry riding experience, ideal for those who appreciate natural, less developed trail conditions.

Yes, there is one easy route available. The Stewart's Farm loop from Mahopac is a great option for those looking for a less challenging ride, covering approximately 19.85 km with manageable elevation changes.

The longest route currently available is the Maybrook Trailway – Maybrook Trailway loop from Carmel, which spans about 31.07 km. Another moderate option is the Lake Casse loop from Mahopac, at approximately 21.35 km.

California Hill State Forest is generally open year-round for public recreation, and while there are no specific designated dog trails, dogs are typically permitted on existing roads and trails under New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) regulations. Always ensure your dog is leashed and you clean up after them.

The routes vary in difficulty from easy to moderate. The Stewart's Farm loop from Mahopac, being an easy route, might be suitable for families with older children who are comfortable with gravel and unpaved surfaces. However, the rugged and lightly developed nature of the forest means some routes might be more challenging than typical paved family trails.

California Hill State Forest offers a remote and wild feel with diverse terrain. You can expect to see dense hardwood forests, rolling ridgelines, and potentially catch glimpses of Lake Waywayanda and Pudding Street Pond. The forest is also rich in wildlife, including wild turkey, white-tailed deer, and pheasants, making it attractive for nature observation.

The forest is open year-round, but spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter may present snow and ice, making some routes more challenging or impassable without appropriate gear.

California Hill State Forest is managed by the NYSDEC. While general public recreation is allowed, traditional mountain biking is currently prohibited as the NYSDEC works on a multi-use trail system. However, gravel biking and touring cycling on existing dirt and gravel roads are popular. No specific permits are mentioned for general cycling, but it's always advisable to check the official NYSDEC website for the latest regulations before your visit.

The forest was formed by combining three existing multiple-use areas: Pudding Street, Gordon Road, and California Hill. Parking is typically available at designated access points for these areas. Specific parking details for individual routes are usually provided on the route's komoot page.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, backcountry riding experience, the extensive network of dirt and gravel roads, and the opportunity to enjoy nature away from traffic.