The newest addition to the trail network in Lake Placid is absolutely superb!!  Thanks to a hard working group of volunteers known as the Barkeater Trails Alliance the property along the periphy of the Town of North Elba's Craigwood Golf Course has been tranformed into an off-road cyclist's playground.  Using the latest in trailbuilding techniques, including the use of a small excavator the previosuly unused land has been responsibly shaped into sweeping burms and turns that cyclists dream of.  

The riding, located in the woods around the golf course, far from disturbing any golfers is suitable for a variety of skill levels.  The trails have been laid out, and constructed to be suitable for the widest possible variety of abilities and uses.   The first phase, which was completed in 2012 is being referred to as the, "front-nine" and the 2nd phase, still in progres, should probably not be used until we can string together a few dry and sunny days.  There is a map of the area available at both Placid Planet Bicycles and High Peaks Cyclery located in Lake Placid.  

Parking for the trail network can be found on River Road at the Steel Deck Bridge.  Riders should steer their bikes toward the ski jumps and the big red barn.  Follow signs for the Jackrabbit Trail that turn onto Maynard Lane and continue onto Birdsong Lane.  Continue to  follow the Jackrabbit up the long climb until you see the golf course at which point the singl-track will be on the left.  Note that the climb up to the "Front Nine" on the Jackrabbit is a long one.  However, the reward once you reach the Craigwood Trails, and the trip back to car is well worth the effort.  Currently the details are being worked out to allow riders to park at the golf course and cross at a designated area which will make the access much easier.  However, those details have yet to be made official.  

Riding at the Craigwood Trail system like a lot of the other riding in the area surrounding Lake Placid is a privelege.  Please do not disturb golfers, and respect any other trail users.  For the most up to the minute trail conditions stop into our great local bike shops and while you're there pick-up a trail map.  It will help keep you from getting lost and support the Barkeater Trails Alliance, whose hard work is responsible for the great riding around Lake Placid.