October 2025 / BIKING
Hamilton Point at Minnewaska State Park Preserve offers spectacular views for cyclists in the Hudson Valley.
Great Upstate
By Dave Kraus
In a world that seems increasingly chaotic and unpredictable, there’s one thing that remains dependably true: Upstate New York is a great place to ride a bicycle! From the Hudson Valley to the Adirondacks to the Berkshires and west to the Finger Lakes, there are so many beautiful places, roads, and trails to enjoy on two wheels.
As the summer cycling season ends it’s time to store away the treasured memories of good times with friends old and new, then make the annual autumn decision. As the weather cools and the days shorten, will it be to the basement to set up the trainer? To the local club for spin classes? Or break out the winter clothes and continue to enjoy cycling outdoors wherever you ride in the Great Upstate?
Dave Kraus (dbkgrafik@gmail.com) is an area cyclist, photographer, writer, and guide for Discovery Bike Tours who is always ready to explore. Visit krausgrafik.com.
Riders climb Ashley Hill Road with Catskill peaks during the 2025 Toad Strangler Gravel Grinder.
This couple brought along their trusty companion on the Farmer's Daughter ride.
Good times and friendly assistance on Seven Bridges Road during Farmer’s Daughter Gravel Grinder.
Chet Lasell of Niskayuna just west of Saranac Lake on the Adirondack Rail Trail; now fully open to Tupper Lake.
Some users are slower than others on the new Adirondack Rail Trail. But don't try to hurry this one up!
Eric Bravin of Hartwick enjoys a sunny July day on the backroads near Cooperstown.
Life is good when you can ride trails during fall foliage like this one at Buck Pond, north of Saranac Lake.