Get psyched for this adrenaline-filled summer activity in Saranac Lake!

There’s a new bike park in town, and its origin is an example of what happens when a community comes together for a common goal.

The driving force behind the inception, funding, and creation of this community feature are the Saranac Lake Innovative Cycling Kids (SLICK). You heard that right! Back in 2020, a group of enterprising and enthusiastic local kids had a vision for the pump track, and with their parents in support roles, brought together community partners like Barkeater Trails Alliance (BETA) and the Saranac Lake Rotary, to make this dream a reality. With a combination of diligent fundraising and hours of laborious trail work, something special took form at an unused plot of land in Saranac Lake. By August of 2022, a sustainably built bike park was officially opened for public use. 

What is a pump track? 

This is the centerpiece of the park, and the main idea behind a pump track is in the name. To go around the looped track lined with earthen bumps and banked berms, you use a “pumping” motion while riding, which allows you to maintain momentum without having to pedal. Essentially, you push down on the bike when going down a bump, and pull up when going up. It may seem confusing at first, but when watching riders in action, it becomes quickly apparent how it works, and you’ll want to join in right away. 

What other features are there?

While the pump track may be the crown jewel of the park, it’s not the only feature you can utilize. The jump line, which seamlessly flows out of the pump track, enables riders to get big air! Looping back around, you can hop back on the trail and do it over and over again. Arguably the most important feature of the bike park is its tangible connections to the community. The bike park is connected by a single track path to the Adirondack Rail Trail, which means you could take a quick cruise over to Lake Colby, or stop by the park if you’re going for a longer ride on the Rail Trail. The park’s close proximity to Dewey and Pisgah Mountains, as well as the local high school trails, has quickly turned this nook of the town into a popular destination, particularly among area youth. 

Who is the bike park for?

Many consider pump tracks as great stepping stones or training grounds for mountain biking more technical trails. Berms and bumps allow you to get used to handling a bike in a safer, less rocky environment, in tandem with still having a thrilling experience. So if you’re new to mountain biking, the pump track and associated features are perfect for working on your balance, coordination, and control! While made for all ages and abilities, the pump track has gained traction with the local youth, making it the perfect environment to bring the kids after school or on a weekend. 

The Harrietstown Bike Park is here to stay, but more improvements are in the works. An expanded jump line is up next, with proceeds from community events like the Pisgah Pedalfest going to the new projects. SLICK also plans to continue its collaborative efforts with the Lake Placid Outing Club and Hardy Kids on a weekly summer youth series, with group rides during the summer at the bike park. 

SLICK plans to put up closed signs and caution tape at the pump track and jump line during mud season, until the area can dry out enough so that use doesn't cause damage. Practicing Leave No Trace ethics at the bike park mirrors guidelines across the Adirondack Park when it comes to trail systems and biking paths. To support local trails in a tangible way, follow SLICK's lead and volunteer during trail days with BETA!