The best cycling routes in New York County

New York County offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 185 options available. These range from easy loops within parks to more challenging long-distance rides that extend beyond the borough.

For beginners, New York County has many easy routes. A great starting point is the Center Drive, Central Park – Tennis Courts in Central Park loop from Manhattan Island, which is 5.5 miles (8.8 km) and offers a classic ride through Central Park. Another accessible option is the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway and Central Park Loop, an easy 20.6-mile (33.1 km) trail combining waterfront views with park scenery.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, New York County serves as a gateway to extensive routes. The Manhattan and Brooklyn Waterfront Greenways Loop covers 25.2 miles (40.6 km) of urban and river views. For a more challenging and longer experience, the Hudson River Greenway – Hudson River Greenway loop from 50th Street is nearly 60 miles (97.3 km) and extends significantly along the Hudson River.

Absolutely. Many of New York County's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your path. Popular options include the Center Drive, Central Park – Tennis Courts in Central Park loop from Manhattan Island, the Manhattan and Brooklyn Waterfront Greenways Loop, and the East River and Randalls Island Greenway Loop.

Touring cycling in New York County offers a diverse range of scenic views. You'll experience iconic cityscapes, including views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, the New Jersey Palisades, and the Hudson and East Rivers. Routes through Central Park provide lush green spaces and famous landmarks like Bethesda Fountain. For those venturing further, routes like the Palisades loop over the Hudson offer stunning river vistas and natural beauty.

Many touring cycling routes in New York County pass by or offer easy access to significant attractions. Along the waterfront greenways, you can spot landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, the High Line, and Little Island at Pier 55. Central Park routes allow you to explore its famous features, while the Brooklyn Bridge – Hudson River Greenway loop from 103rd Street connects you to both the bridge and the extensive greenway system.

New York County's extensive public transport network makes many touring cycling routes highly accessible. Subways and buses often have stops near major greenways and parks, allowing you to easily reach starting points like Central Park or the Hudson River Greenway. Many routes, such as the Bronx Greenways and Grand Concourse Loop, are designed to be integrated with urban access points.

While New York County is densely urban, parking can be found near various cycling routes, especially on the outskirts of Manhattan or in adjacent boroughs. Many parks and greenway access points have nearby parking garages or street parking, though it's advisable to check specific locations in advance, particularly for popular areas like Central Park or the waterfront greenways. For routes extending into New Jersey, like the Oradell Reservoir Loop, parking is generally more readily available.

The best time for touring cycling in New York County is generally spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the foliage offers beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, but early mornings or evenings are still enjoyable. Winter cycling is possible, especially on cleared greenways, but requires appropriate gear for colder temperatures.

Yes, many of the paved greenways in New York County are maintained and cleared, making them suitable for winter cycling, weather permitting. The Hudson River Greenway and parts of the Central Park loop are often accessible. However, always check local conditions for ice or snow accumulation before heading out. Routes like the Bike loop from 96th Street offer a shorter, manageable option within the city.

The touring cycling routes in New York County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 300 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive car-free greenways, the stunning views of the city skyline and rivers, and the variety of routes that cater to different skill levels, from leisurely park rides to challenging loops that extend into neighboring areas.

For a comprehensive overview of cycling routes throughout New York City, including New York County, you can refer to the official NYC Bike Map. It provides detailed information on bike lanes, greenways, and connections across the boroughs. You can download the latest version from the NYC Department of Transportation website: NYC Bike Map.