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Bike Ride

Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake via Harrisburg Road

Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake is an out-and-back bike ride that follows Harrisburg Road the entire way, covering 10.65 miles each way for a total of 21.3 miles. Harrisburg Rd. is a rural road with farms, old camps, and lots of open space. Most of the ride is on paved road, with just a short 0.25-mile stretch on hardpack (compressed gravel and dirt). The road follows a steady incline on the way out to Harrisburg Lake and includes rolling hills, some of which may prove challenging for a beginner cyclist. The good news is once you’ve made it to the lake, it’s an easy ride all the way back!

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Photo by Jennifer Kietzman.

photo by jennifer kietzman

Photo by Jennifer Kietzman.

Stony Creek Route

Along the route, be sure to look for Highland cows grazing near mile 4.5, the remnants of an old school at mile 5, and the historic Lodge at Harrisburg Lake around mile 10.4. At the lake, take in the serene views from the causeway or explore the nearby Harrisburg Lake Canoe Access.

21.3 mi
2.5 – 3 hours
Moderate
43.427ºN, 73.931ºW
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Parking

Park at the John O’Neill Green Meadow Park & Beach (at the corner of Harrisburg Rd. and Lanfear Rd.). There is plenty of parking.

Plan Your Route

Directions
  • As you exit the parking lot, turn right onto Harrisburg Rd. 
  • The entirety of the ride follows Harrisburg Rd. Note that as you approach Harrisburg Lake, the pavement turns to hardpack (at mile 10.4). 
  • Continue riding until you reach the causeway, a beautiful spot from which to view both sides of the lake. Note that the Harrisburg Lake Canoe Access site is at the end of the causeway on the right. 
  • After you’ve finished exploring, turn around and ride back to the parking area.
Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake, Jennifer Kietzman, View from the Causeway
Jennifer Kietzman, View from the Causeway
Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake, Jennifer Kietzman, Road View
Jennifer Kietzman, Road View
Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake, Jennifer Kietzman, Old Camp Called _No Does_
Jennifer Kietzman, Old Camp Called No Does
Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake, Jennifer Kietzman, Sunset Valley
Jennifer Kietzman, Sunset Valley
Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake, Jennifer Kietzman, Parking Lot
Jennifer Kietzman, Parking Lot
Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake, Jennifer Kietzman, One Beautiful Road
Jennifer Kietzman, One Beautiful Road
Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake, Jennifer Kietzman, Old Camp Called Little Siberia
Jennifer Kietzman, Old Camp Called Little Siberia
Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake, Jennifer Kietzman, Memorial
Jennifer Kietzman, Memorial
Stony Creek to Harrisburg Lake, Jennifer Kietzman, Goldenrod
Jennifer Kietzman, Goldenrod
Things You Don’t Want to Miss

Scenic Stops &
Local Landmarks

On your ride, look for Highland cows at mile 4.5, an old schoolhouse at mile 5, the Lodge at Harrisburg Lake around mile 10, and a memorial honoring Andrzej Rostek at mile 10.4.

Things to look for on your way
  • At mile 4.5, keep an eye out for Highland cows on the left – they love apples! This farm was once known as the Lazy J Ranch, founded by Earl Woodward, the “Baron of Bolton Landing,” during the heyday of Adirondack dude ranches.
  • Just past mile 5, you’ll spot an old schoolhouse tucked away among the trees.
  • Around mile 10, you’ll pass the Lodge at Harrisburg Lake, which harkens back to its days as the Stony Creek Dude Ranch, also founded by Earl Woodward.
  • At mile 10.4, take a moment to appreciate the heartfelt memorial dedicated to Andrzej Rostek, honoring the family, friends, and neighbors of Stony Creek.
Places for Food and Beverage

For a bite to eat or refreshments, stop by the cozy Stony Creek Inn or visit the Stony Creek Marketplace for local goods and treats.

Tour and Stopovers
When the spirits are low, when the day appears dark, when work becomes monotonous, when hope hardly seems worth having, just mount a bicycle and go out for a spin down the road, without thought on anything but the ride you are taking.

— Arthur Conan Doyle

Nearby Activities to Explore

Nearby Adventures

After your ride, enjoy nearby activities such as paddling at Harrisburg Lake or Lens Lake or hiking the Dean Farm Heritage Trails. These outdoor adventures are all part of the Gateway 8 Challenge, making the area a great spot for exploration and discovery.

  • Enjoy a scenic paddle at Harrisburg Lake, one of the featured adventures in the Gateway 8 Challenge.
  • Explore the picturesque Dean Farm Heritage Trails, another must-do hike in the Gateway 8.
  • Take on the tranquil waters of Lens Lake with a serene paddle, part of your Gateway 8 journey.
  • Step back in time with a visit to the historic Dean Homestead Museum and the charming District #4 Schoolhouse.
Route Map
Nearby Adventures
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Take the Challenge

Are you ready to conquer the outdoors? Register for the Gateway 8 Challenge and explore Saratoga and Warren County’s most scenic hiking, biking, and paddling routes. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the trails, this challenge offers the perfect mix of stunning views and physical achievement.

Lace up your boots, grab your gear, and start your adventure today!

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