| Cycling and mountain biking has exploded in popularity over the last few years and New Yorks northern Catskills is proud to be considered one of the top U.S. destinations. We have played host to such world class events as the Tour de Trump and Grundig World Cup Mountain Bike events. Whether easy or hard, on road or off, we have the terrain you crave within a short driving distance. |
 |
Jump to a Section:
Biking Risks and Safety
Recognize that mountain & road bicycling are great sports but they have inherent risks, dangers and hazards. Also be aware that the hazards exist throughout all the areas and that many are unmarked. & will appear when you least expect them. Biking is fun but take seriously the risk to personal injury, death, property damage or loss, resulting there from. Consult a local bike shop before you begin your adventure on the Mountain Top. There are a few shops listed in the Area Guide on this web site where you can get recommendations about where to go in the greater Hunter area..
Learn to Mountain Bike Clinics & Advanced Skills Clinics are available from bike shops & bike clubs in your area. Give them a call & sign up if you haven't had the proper training. Cyclists' safety remains a priority with all bike product companies & within all municipalities that have bikes on their roads. The biking industry estimates that more than 80 percent of cycling-related fatalities involve people who did not wear helmets. Helmets must be standard equipment for all cyclists. You should consider them the equivalent of airbags in cars. Never ride a bike without a helmet. Just like riding downhill is significantly more dangerous than riding uphill & proper training/extreme caution are called for before you consider any off the road experiences. Most commercial operations offering biking will ask you to sign a release of liability, wavier of claims & assumption of risk & indemnity agreement. Biking is great fun but you have to use forethought & act responsibly!
Rules of the Trail
Thousands of miles of dirt trails have been closed to mountain bicyclists. The irresponsible riding habits of a few riders have been a factor. Do your part to maintain trail access by observing the following rules of the trail, formulated by IMBA, the International Mountain Bicycling Association. IMBA's mission is to promote environmentally sound and socially responsible mountain bicycling.
- Ride on open trails only. Respect trail and road closures (ask if not sure), avoid possible trespass on private land, obtain permits or other authorization as may be required. Federal and state Wilderness areas are closed to cycling. The way you ride will influence trail management decisions and policies.
- Leave no trace. Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Even on open (legal) trails, you should not ride under conditions where you will leave evidence of your passing, such as on certain soils after a rain. Recognize different types of soils and trail construction; practice low-impact cycling. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.
- Control your bicycle! Inattention for even a second can cause problems. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations.
- Always yield trail. Make known your approach well in advance. A friendly greeting or bell is considerate and works well; don't startle others. Show your respect when passing by slowing to a walking pace or even stopping. Anticipate other trail users around corners or in blind spots.
- Never spook animals. All animals are startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise. This can be dangerous for you, others, and the animals. Give animals extra room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife is a serious offense. Leave gates as you found them, or as marked.
- Plan ahead. Know your equipment, your ability, and the area in which you are riding -- and prepare accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times, keep your equipment in good repair, and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. A well-executed trip is a satisfaction to you and not a burden or offense to others. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.
KEEP TRAILS OPEN BY SETTING A GOOD EXAMPLE OF ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND AND SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE OFF-ROAD CYCLING.
Other Catskill Biking Links and Resources
There are many great online resources regarding biking in the Catskills. Here are a few to begin with:
If you have any questions or comments, you can contact IMBA at:
IMBA
P.O. Box 7578
Boulder, CO 80306-7578
USA
Tel: 303-545-9011
Fax: 303-545-9026
