Road Cycling
Hit the open road in Always Franklin! Choose from adventurous multi-day loops or leisurely rides by serene lakes and rivers. Cyclists can enjoy the beauty of nature with scenic views and fresh air - perfect for all riding enthusiasts!
Local riders rave about the trails here. From tranquil backroads in Malone - perfect for first-timers - to stunning views of lakes, rivers, and mountains around Saranac Lake, Always Franklin offers diverse landscapes perfect for riders seeking adventure.
Explore nature's beauty while enjoying fresh air and exercise! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, there's something for everyone.
Saranac Lake Area
Forest Home Run
20.8 Miles
Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/32058241
This route is a smidge over 20 miles, but rides a lot shorter and is good in either direction. However, the downhill into Saranac Lake on Forest Home Road is the cherry. If you start and finish in downtown Saranac Lake, there are any number of fine places for a tasty post ride beverage or a pre-ride coffee. As you head out of town, you'll get stunning views of Lake Colby, pass Donnelly's famous ice cream stand and enjoy some fine new pavement on Route 186 toward Lake Clear all before turning onto Forest Home Road for a home stretch that locals call the finest around.
Norman Ridge – Saranac River Valley
33.6 miles
Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/35557587
Starting in downtown Saranac Lake, this ride features stunning 180-degree views of Whiteface Mountain from Norman Ridge before cruising down to the Saranac Lake River Valley for a casual roll back to town. Add in a stop at Hex & Hop nano brewery on the way home and this is a 'do not miss' ride. Psst, this ride can also be shortened to 20 miles by starting and finishing at Hex & Hop - https://ridewithgps.com/routes/32057987.
Mt. Pisgah Loop
6.9 miles
Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33811181
Just looking for a fun little cruise with awesome views? This one provides ‘hop off your bike and snap pictures’ views of Lake Colby, the Saranac River Valley and Moody Pond – among others. It can also be shortened to just a quick local around Moody Pond, which is a local strolling (and riding bikes with kids) favorite.
Malone Area
Township 7 Loop
52.4 miles
Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/32058081
Whether your start (and finish) this ride at Township 7 Brewing or cruise from Malone, you’ll experience some fabulous roads including some incredibly sublime backroads through the Deer River and Titusville Mountain State Forests. Highlights include fabulous farmland, a trip past Titus Mountain Ski Area, Chasm Falls and a winding meander along the Salmon River. This route can also be shortened to 20 miles without taking out some of the best features - https://ridewithgps.com/routes/32058094.
Northern Loops
Fort Covington
43.9 miles
Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33811648
Chateaugay
40.5 miles
Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33811657
Whichever northern direction you choose to travel, you’ll be treated with the similar rural backroad experiences with miles and miles of relatively easy cycling complemented by views of the rich farming culture that makes the Malone area so wonderful. Head northeast and pair it with a stop at the Wilder Homestead or head northwest and be sure to stop at any of the fabulous farm stands along the way. Either way will not disappoint.
River Road Loop
7.2 miles
Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33811544
If you’re in a time crunch or just looking for a short, but very fun spin on the bike, this loop is for you. Featuring a fabulous ride along the Salmon River, you can start or simply stop at the Malone Recreation Park where a playground, walking (and riding path for the kids) is right there along with plenty of space for picnicking.
Tupper Lake Area
Sabattis Lollipop
33.2 miles
Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33811251
This out-and-back ride comes with a couple of gems. First, the ride features spectacular views from the causeway separating Raquette Pond from Simon Pond. Second, the shoulder on Route 30 is (and this is true) the widest in the entire area. But on top of that, you’re more likely to see wildlife crossing Circle Road than a car driving on it. Add in a bonus spur up Route 421 to Bog River Falls (a popular swim spot) and you’ve got quite a day.
Conifer Out-And-Back
17.6 miles
Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33811244
Whether you stop this ride at Piercefield Flow or continue all the way to historic Conifer, it’s a great ride, the first part of which is featured on the Tupper Lake Tinman triathlon bike course. If you continue to Conifer, a community famous for Emporium Forestry Company in the 1900’s, you’ll definitely get off the beaten path. In fact, along the way it’s easy to spot remnants of the logging heyday.
Local Spins
If you just want to get out for a fun little spin with your family, the place to start (and maybe just stay) is the Tupper Lake Municipal Park which features a paved path along Raquette Pond that leads to a playground and bandshell. Plus, there are any number of spots to roll out a blanket and relax. If you’d like to add a little more miles, there’s also a paved recreational path that you can pick up at McDonald’s directly across the street from the park. A mix of path and roads will take you all the way to The Wild Center.
