In the past, Vassar Farms was known as a BMX and freerider's paradise, complete with jumps, doubles, and numerous wooden ladder features reminiscent of the North Shore. More recently, litigation has forced the removal of those structures (that were built illegally) in favor of smoother, flowier trails. Mountain bikers are fortunate to have access to this system at all and only continue to enjoy such access through responsible trail use.
Nevertheless, the trails at Vassar are not unlike Stewart State Forest, and considerably easier and flowier than most other trail systems in the area. There are some technical sections, but they are generally short and non-threatening. While Vassar isn't much of a draw as a riding destination, the convenient location (the only trail system in the city of Poughkeepsie) makes it perfect for a couple of hot laps after work, or on your lunch break. Interspersed with fireroad and some doubletrack, Vassar even affords adventurous cyclocross riders an opportunity to touch wheels to dirt.
In the summer, Vassar can become taxing, as bushes, shrubbery and undergrowth often obstruct the trail. Mere feet from Vassar College, the spring and fall often find the trails occupied by runners as well, so please be courteous and respectful of other users.
-Updated description by NorthAtlanticDirt
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