Cycling is popular all summer long on Adirondack roads, but the fall is one of my favorite times to get out on the roads and take in the scenery. Throughout the month of September, the foliage is changing and makes for beautiful views that look almost like a painting.
One of my favorite trips to make on two wheels is the ride from Inlet to Speculator. At about 59 miles, it makes for a great opportunity to be able to check out a few different communities. If you are visiting for a weekend, spending the night on one end of the trip in Speculator and riding back to Inlet the next day makes for a great weekend adventure!
Starting out on Route 28 you head towards Blue Mountain Lake. This road is great for cyclists because it has recently been paved and has nice wide shoulders. The ride out of Inlet is fun because of the twists and turns. It is also scenic, as you pass lookouts for Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh lakes. There are plenty of opportunities to stop and take beautiful pictures during the ride.
Pulling into Raquette Lake, this is a great destination to stop and refuel. The Raquette Lake Taproom prides itself on being quirky and quaint, with great food and great company. Fuel up with an awesome burger and refreshing drink before you get back on the bike. Before leaving Raquette Lake, stop by the Caboose Gift Shop to find a souvenir that will fit in your pack. From candles to locally made foods and unique gifts, you’ll be able to find something to remember Raquette Lake by.
Getting back on Route 28, continue heading towards Blue Mountain Lake. When you reach Utowana Lake, there is a rest stop that makes for the perfect picture spot. Pull off to capture the true beauty of fall in the Adirondacks. When you arrive in Blue Mountain Lake, ride to the public beach for a relaxing break. The Blue Mountain Lake Beach gives you an opportunity to sit near the water and take in the views.
Hopping back on your bike, turn right on Route 28/30 towards Speculator. Continue straight until you are in the village of Indian Lake. You will see the turn for Speculator, but continue straight to check out Byron Park in Indian Lake. This bike route is all about scenic stops, and it is one of the most beautiful times of the year! Byron Park is one of my favorite places to stop when I am traveling through. Right on the shores of Adirondack Lake, sits Byron Park, where the Indian Lake Chamber currently has their information center set up. It is a great spot to have a picnic or just relax.
Head back towards the turn for Speculator and make a left at the Stewart’s Shops onto Route 30. From here, continue straight right into the village of Speculator. Only 24 miles left! You ride alongside Indian Lake and Lewey Lake for a majority of the ride, making as many stops as you would like. Just outside Indian Lake is a beautiful overlook of the High Peaks. It is a must stop, you can’t miss it on your left hand side.
Now you’re in the community of Speculator and you’ve put in 60 miles! I recommend a nice meal and beverage and finding a place to rest your head for the night, before getting up tomorrow to make the journey back to Inlet.
Looking for more bike loops? Check out a few other options here and enjoy your fall adventures in the Adirondacks!
