2025 PALISADES MTB NEWSLETTER
2025 was our most productive year ever! Thanks to your support, the 2025 season has pushed us even closer to our long-term vision: making Sterling Forest one of the premier riding destinations in the Northeast, built on a growing network of over 40 miles of planned multi-use trails.
Here are some highlights of what you've helped us accomplish in 2025:
Redback South. One of the fastest built trails in our region in Sterling Forest State Park
E-Bike Policy Change in Sterling Forest.
Major rehab project started on original loop and in Sterling.
Incredibly successful group ride and gathering.
Planning has begun on a beginner loop at Sterling.
E-Bike Policy gets changed in Sterling Forest
On behalf of our members and generous donors, Palisades MTB is proud to share that we successfully advocated for Sterling Forest to allow Class-1 e-bikes on multi-use trails. The “No E-Bike” signs have been removed and will soon be replaced with updated signage.
Class-1 e-bikes have been shown to cause no additional trail wear or environmental impact compared to traditional bikes, while allowing more people to enjoy the outdoors. Just as importantly, they do not diminish the experience of other trail users.
Sterling Forest - THE REDBACK SOUTH TRAIL
The new 3-mile Red Back South trail is now 90% complete and on track for an official Spring opening. Designed for every type of rider, it blends smooth, pedal-friendly climbs with fast, flowy descents and optional features that let beginners progress and experts play. With Red Back South, Sterling Forest now offers 18 miles of multi-use bike trails, thousands of feet of vert, and loop options long enough for a full day of riding.
This project represents a true community effort. Red Back South cost $180,000 to build and combined the expertise of a professional trail-building contractor with nearly 2,000 hours of volunteer labor. Thanks to your generosity, we built three miles of new trail in some of the rockiest terrain around— in just over a year.
Sterling Forest - Original Loop Rehab
The original 8-mile Sterling Forest loop, built between 2015 and 2019, is now in need of significant maintenance due to erosion. During the 2025 season, we completed a full refresh of the first half-mile of the Red Back trail from the South Gate parking lot and rebuilt the Munsee Eagle trail at the “Dragon’s Tail” near the power line crossing. Special thanks to Brian Lanius and the Get Stuff Done (GSD) crew for their exceptional work.
With your continued support, we plan to fully rehab the Munsee Eagle and Augusta Mine trails in 2026.
2025 GROUP RIDES
We had over 150 people come out for our May and October group rides, picnic, and raffle — thank you to everyone who joined us! The energy, support, and community spirit were incredible, and together we raised nearly $4,000 across the two events. We can’t wait to do it again next season.
We even managed to get the OG Sterling GSD and the new GSD crew together for the event. It was epic.
Sterling Forest - Beginner loop planning
Palisades MTB is planning to partner with IMBA Trail Solutions to design a new 4–5 mile beginner-friendly loop—a true gateway trail for new riders and families. The proposed loop will likely begin at the Caretaker parking lot, providing easy access and a welcoming introduction to Sterling Forest.
Scouting is already in progress, and construction could start as early as late 2027, depending on funding. This project is a critical step in making Sterling Forest accessible to riders of all ages and skill levels. Your support will help bring this new beginner loop to life and broaden the community of riders who can enjoy these trails.
2025 Volunteers and Fundraising
Our friends at Wisecrack Roasting Company, have mastered the blend for our builders. Introducing The Rock Crumpler Blend — a perfectly balanced roast for every ☕️
Buy a bag, build a trail. Available in whole bean or ground by clicking HERE.
