Are you a cycling enthusiast and happen to love the outdoors? Hop on your bike and get ready to explore the hidden natural wonder that is Finger Lakes. Explore the charming outdoors as you pedal across beautiful sceneries. Fun fact about the Finger Lakes, it is the most exciting wine region on the East Coast! This bike tour is different from the rest, you can enjoy laid-back cycling, relish on the most delicious wine in the region and exquisite cuisines.
A four-day biking expedition alongside scenic views, delicious food and wine awaits your arrival at Finger Lakes! In this blog I’ll be telling you about all you need to know about Finger Lakes and how you can have the most exciting bike tour.
Escape to the Waters: Explore Finger Lakes’ Waterfront Lake Trails
Finger Lakes is a blend of 11 different lakes that come together in the Finger Lakes region of New York. Cycling in the Finger Lakes is such an enlightening experience. Each of the lakes are known for their exceptional biking and hiking trails. You will experience a tranquil, relaxed ride where shimmering lakes and lush greenery will be the serene backdrop to your ride. Discover scenic routes along the shores of lakes, enjoy the breathtaking sceneries and even unwind with a lakeside picnic.
If you are fit enough and experimental enough, you must try and aim for cycling all 11 of the lakes, and in case you aren’t here are the top 4 you cannot miss as a cycling enthusiast!
Otisco Lake
Otisco Lake is on the eastern end of the 11 New York Finger Lakes. If you are planning on cycling Finger Lakes, it is best to start with Otisco Lake. The distance of the loop is 16 miles. Many who have attempted the loop including myself found that riding it counterclockwise seemed more attainable, of course if you are confident in your fitness and are looking for a challenge go for it clockwise.
The lake itself is very peaceful and lovely and I can’t deny that the scenery was definitely motivating. Do keep in mind that there are hardly any facilities, so make sure you’re carrying your biking essentials.
Otisco lake also hosts an Otisco Lake Bike Race every mother’s day! The atmosphere is extremely lively complete with a Mother’s Day brunch, live music and delicious food.
| Start/End Point | Otisco Lake Park |
| Location | 2525 Otisco Valley Rd, Marietta, NY 13110 |
Owasco Lake
Owasco lake is a much more challenging trail, as it is 31 miles long, but the ride is so beautiful you almost don’t realize. Owasco lake is definitely one of my favorites because the west side is fast and the views are truly breathtaking. The shimmering waters in the backdrop as you ride is truly mesmerizing.
Owasco Lake is a popular Finger Lakes road cycling road and it is likely that you will find other cyclists among you.
Emerson park is the best starting and end point. It is definitely a longer ride for beginners but it is always fun to challenge yourself, and trust me when I tell you the views are worth every drop of sweat!
| Start/End Point | Emerson Park |
| Location | 6877 E Lake Rd, Auburn, NY 13021 |
Skaneateles Lake
Your Finger Lakes Bicycle tour would be incomplete without a ride along the shores of Skaneateles Lake, it is also actually one of the cleanest lakes in all of the United States. The town of Skaneateles is also incredibly scenic and welcoming, the downtown region is definitely worth exploring. The local eateries offer some of the most delicious foods in the region.
The route is pretty long, 40 miles and is better if you are experienced. There is also a shorter route that can be taken around the lake as well. The route from Tops Friendly Markets however is best in road quality and facilities both.
| Start/End Point | Tops Friendly Markets |
| Location | 40 Fennell St, Skaneateles, NY 13152 |
Canandaigua Lake
Cycling in the Finger Lakes region on its own is a challenge but the Canandaigua Lake is definitely one of the more challenging routes, it has a longer climb than the others and you will surely feel tired. It is also the fourth largest of all the Finger Lakes. The ride is challenging and thrilling. The steep glacier-cut hills will require some fat gears. But the ride is honestly just as beautiful. You’ll be able to view many hilltop views of a lake stretching out for 12-15 miles, the clear glass like water shines below as you progress and it is mesmerizing.
It is best to ride this loop clockwise as there can be some strong winds coming your way.
| Start/End Point | Wegmans |
| Location | 345 Eastern Blvd, Canandaigua, NY 14424 |
Wine Country Wonders: Finger Lakes’ Bike Wine Tour
It isn’t a trip to wine country if you don’t explore the vineyards! Finger Lakes is home to over 100 wineries and breweries. Visit unique wineries, bike alongside stunning waterfalls.
Cayuga Wine Trail
The Cayuga Wine trail is America’s first and longest running wine trail! Ride along the north shores of Seneca Lake and carry on forward through the farmlands of Lake Cayuga where on its shore you can enjoy sipping on delicious and authentic wine at any of the 10 vineyards located on the trail! That’s right, the Cayuga Wine Trail is home to ten wineries.
Personally, I would recommend the Thirsty Owl Wine Company. It spans 150 acres with over 2000 feet of lake frontage. Enjoy a lunch and tasting at Thirsty Owl after riding along the scenic Seneca Lake. Thirsty Owl is known for their Pinot Noir, and they are also one of the few establishments that make Malbec and Syrah in the area.
Tours and Schedules
You will find many organized biking tours in Finger Lakes, where you can accompany fellow cyclists like yourself on a group biking tour of the Finger Lakes!
Wilderness Voyageurs
Wilderness Voyageurs offer a six day bike tour of the finger lakes! The highlights of the tour include cycling around the finger lakes, wine tastings and waterfall hikes. They provide options for lodging throughout the tour as well. They even go the mile and help with the maintenance of your bike during the trip. The tour also includes all meals for all six days! Here are all the details you need to know about their bike tour:
| Pricing | Double Occupancy: $2370
Single Supplement: $690 Standard Bike Rental: $210 |
| Dates | June 16, 2024
June 23, 2024 August 18, 2024 September 8, 2024 |
| Minimum Age | 21 |
| Meals Provided | 5 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners |
Saddle Up: Prepare for Your Finger Lakes Bike Tour
Preparation is key for your Finger Lakes bike tour, prepare for your cycling adventure with all your biking gear and essentials. Here is a list of things you must keep in mind before embarking on such an extensive biking adventure.
- Selecting the right bike: The bike is definitely the most crucial element of your bike tour. Due to the terrain in the Finger Lakes Region it is best to use a gravel bike for this tour, spring and fall also happen to be the best times to ride in Finger Lakes.
- Tips for preparing physically and mentally: Your physical fitness is key and most important. If you’re setting out on something as challenging as this bike tour, it is important your fitness levels are good and you are aware of your capabilities and limitations. Cycling anywhere between 5-10 miles everyday regularly before your bike tour can help build your stamina for the adventure.
Being mentally prepared is just as important. Always be mindful, stay in the present and focus on the ride, try not to get distracted. Stay positive and flexible, develop a routine for long rides and set achievable goals.
Essential Safety Precautions:
- Always wear a helmet
- Protect yourself from the sun, use sunscreen and sunglasses
- Check the weather forecast
- Be alert
- Install rear view mirrors on your handlebars
Wrapping Up
An exciting and thrilling biking adventure awaits you in Finger Lakes! Hop on and pedal your way through mesmerizing sceneries and sip on delicious wine, a bike tour like no other!
Explore the natural beauty of Finger Lakes on two wheels and enjoy wine tastings straight from the East Coast’s best vineyards.
Looking for a place to stay while you explore this east coast marvel? Check out HolidayKeepers and their delightful vacation homes in New York. Enjoy a luxurious and private stay at any of their properties, which are equipped with posh amenities and more!
Get in touch and book your stay now. Happy Biking!
