Springtime is on its way and, along with it, road cycling season. We don't want to wish away the winter too fast, but when there's no snow left to ski, and the trails are too wet to hike, the roads of the Lake Champlain Region are a safe haven.
Legendary road cycling in the Adirondacks
Cyclists can find cool temps, bright skies, and dry roads early in the season. So get out there, get those legs ready, and use this list to gather ideas for your next legendary ride.
Early morning rides along Lake Champlain
It might not be the easiest time to convince yourself to get out and grind up some hills, but the feeling of coasting through the early morning golden hour is always worth it. We followed Erin Hanczyk as she discovered just that.
"Every route is different, every ride is different." Hanczyk says the perfect ride is, “just the kind of ride that makes you feel free. You just drop into that zone, and everything around you is in sync, the light is perfect, nature is calling, everything around you is brighter…”
In this episode of Dawn Patrol, see what cycling in the Lake Champlain Region is all about; cruise over rolling hills, through golden fields, and along quiet roads with the mountains looming in the distance.
Century Rides on the Empire State Cycling Trail
From Ticonderoga to Rouses Point, the Lake Champlain Region’s stretch of the Empire State Cycling Trail is jaw dropping (or should we say “chain dropping?”... hopefully not!).
Between the stunning Adirondack Mountains and one of North America’s largest lakes lies the long distance cycling route of your dreams. For 99 miles, this trail runs past historic forts and some of the best local breweries in the Empire State. While you’re at it, ride an extra mile to a local coffee shop, and make this epic trail a full century ride. It's time to discover your next long ride!
Themed cycling loops
Maybe you’re not looking for an all-day epic, like a century ride. That’s fine! The Lake Champlain Region has plenty of routes no matter your skill level. The Lake Champlain Bikeways theme loops are a fun and creative way to give your ride some direction. Pedal through history on the “Fort to Fort” trail or get a taste of the Adirondack landscape on the “Mountain-Coast Connector.”
These loops are great at any speed. Do them in the morning, or take the entire day and dig into everything they have to offer. With distances ranging from 13 miles to 37 miles, you’re sure to find something that fits the bill!
Safety first!
At long last, cyclists and motorists can live in peace! At least in the Lake Champlain Region. We’ve seen huge improvements and new safety features, like push buttons, warning lights, and caution signs, added along many of our roads. You’ll coast along easily, taking in the views and knowing those sharing the road are watching out for you.
Now all you have to worry about are those slippery white lines and pesky railroad tracks.
Ride on
Pedal away for a leisurely ride, or put in the miles and get the most out of these open spaces. No matter how you choose to enjoy the roads this spring, the Lake Champlain Region is here to make your ride legendary. Explore all the places to cycle and farm-fresh flavors to refuel with after the ride.
