The best traffic-free bike rides in Brookhaven State Park
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If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling in Brookhaven State Park, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many trails and routes, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want to hit the road (or the trail!) feeling confident you're on a route that delivers. That's where komoot comes in. Our community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best, saving you the guesswork.
Touring cycling in Brookhaven State Park is all about immersing yourself in the unique Long Island Pine Barrens. Expect tranquil woodlands, picturesque pine barrens, and even scattered wetlands as you navigate a landscape characterized by rolling hills and an upland pine-oak forest ecosystem. The park itself offers approximately 25 miles of multi-use trails, many of them wide and following former unpaved roads, alongside routes with mostly well-paved surfaces. It’s a peaceful escape, offering everything from easy, accessible rides to more moderate routes on varied terrain.
If you're looking for a solid, popular ride, we'd start with the Bike loop from Shoreham, a moderate 20.3 miles (32.7 km) route that truly showcases the park's diverse landscape. For those just getting started or looking for a relaxed spin, the Perfect Beginner Trail – Cathedral Pines County Park loop from Middle Island is an easy 9.5 miles (15.3 km) path that’s ideal for new touring cyclists. With an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 70 reviews, our community agrees these routes are fantastic. So, grab your bike and start exploring with komoot!
Last updated: May 29, 2026
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16
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32.7km
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150m
150m
The Bike loop from Shoreham offers a delightful exploration of Long Island's North Shore, blending the smooth, paved surface of the North Shore Rail Trail with more varied local roads and gravel paths. As you cycle, you'll pass through serene wooded areas, catch glimpses of the coast, and navigate gentle bluffs, with opportunities to spot local wildlife like deer and rabbits. This moderate 20.3-mile (32.7 km) route, featuring 501 feet (153 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 53 minutes, making it a rewarding ride for those seeking diverse Shoreham bike loops.
When planning your ride, remember that while the North Shore Rail Trail provides a dedicated path, it's currently light on amenities like restrooms or water fountains, so come prepared. The loop also includes frequent road crossings, requiring cyclists to stay alert. Parking is generally accessible in the village of Shoreham, and visiting during the spring or fall offers the most comfortable weather for enjoying the scenic beauty.
This route incorporates Long Island's first rail-trail, which officially opened in 2022, transforming a former railway line into a safer cycling alternative away from vehicle traffic. The trail is known for its accessibility and flat sections, though the broader loop introduces more varied terrain. It's a great way to experience the region's natural features and connect with local recreational areas, offering a unique blend of history and outdoor activity.
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16.5km
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40m
40m
The Bike loop from Rocky Point offers a delightful and easy touring cycling experience through the diverse landscapes of Suffolk County, New York. You'll pedal along paved roads, enjoying a pleasant mix of coastal views and tranquil wooded sections, with the terrain shifting from flat stretches near the water to gentle rolling hills further inland. This 10.3-mile (16.5 km) route is perfect for a quick outing, taking only about 55 minutes to complete, and is ideal for those seeking a relaxed ride.
Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward, as it primarily uses paved roads suitable for touring bikes. While specific parking information isn't detailed, the area is known for its well-regarded cycling network, so finding a starting point should be easy. This loop is a great option for families or anyone looking for a low-impact ride, especially during mild weather conditions.
With a minimal elevation gain of just 133 feet (40 metres), this route is classified as easy, making it accessible to a wide range of cyclists. The Rocky Point area in New York is celebrated by the cycling community for its variety of routes, and this loop showcases the region's charm through its natural preserves and residential areas, offering a taste of local scenery without demanding significant effort.
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8.76km
00:49
20m
20m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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31.3km
02:48
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Popular around Brookhaven State Park
Tips from the Community
The Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail, or Setauket Greenway, is a 3-mile paved path on Long Island’s north shore. It connects scenic old-growth forests, farmland, meadows, business districts, Stony Brook University, and county parks. The trail features a mix of wooded sections and occasional sunny spots, with several road crossings, and some short sections that pass through utility corridors and sand pits.
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Spanning 320 acres of lush woodlands, Cathedral Pines County Park beckons nature enthusiasts with its extensive network of hiking and biking trails. As the Carmans River traces the park's eastern boundary, it adds a serene ambiance to the outdoor experience. However, visitors should come prepared with insect repellent, as the verdant surroundings can harbor pesky bugs. While dogs are permitted, owners should exercise caution and be prepared for potential tick encounters.
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Cathedral Pines County Park is 320 acres of woods with miles of biking trails. The Carmans River runs along the east boundary of the park.
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Cathedral Pines County Park is 320 acres of woods with miles of biking trails. The Carmans River runs along the east boundary of the park.
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East Bartlett Pine Barrens State Forest is a 99.7-acre park of pine barrens habitat. This patch of woods shares a border with Cathedral Pines County Park, where there are many biking trails.
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A dirt parking lot at Rocky Point Pine Harrens State Forest. Check out the homepage from the Concerned Long Island Mountain Bicyclists (CLIMB) for detailed information and updates on group rides: climbonline.org
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Great singletrack, but watch out for hairpin trees, and spiderwebs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Brookhaven State Park?
Komoot features 4 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes within and around Brookhaven State Park. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful cycling experience away from vehicular traffic.
What is the typical difficulty level of touring cycling routes in Brookhaven State Park?
The majority of no-traffic touring cycling routes in Brookhaven State Park are considered easy, with 3 out of 4 routes falling into this category. There is also one moderate route for those seeking a slightly longer ride. This makes the park accessible for various skill levels, including beginners.
Are the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Brookhaven State Park suitable for families?
Yes, many of the routes are well-suited for families, particularly the easy-rated options. The park's multi-use trails, often following former unpaved roads, provide a safe and enjoyable environment. For a great family-friendly option, consider the Perfect Beginner Trail – Cathedral Pines County Park loop from Middle Island, which is rated easy and offers a pleasant 15.3 km ride.
What kind of terrain and surfaces can I expect on these routes?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Brookhaven State Park often utilize multi-use trails, many of which are wide and follow former unpaved roads. While some sections might be unpaved, many routes associated with the park are characterized by mostly well-paved surfaces, making them ideal for touring bikes. The park's landscape features rolling hills and an upland pine-oak forest ecosystem.
What are the typical lengths of the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The routes vary in length to accommodate different preferences. You can find shorter loops, such as the Wildwood State Park loop from Wildwood State Park at approximately 5 km, or longer rides like the Bike loop from Village of Shoreham, which covers about 32.7 km.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes in Brookhaven State Park?
Yes, all the no-traffic touring cycling routes listed for Brookhaven State Park are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the Rocky Point Parking loop from Twin Ponds and the Perfect Beginner Trail – Cathedral Pines County Park loop from Middle Island.
Where can I park when visiting Brookhaven State Park for cycling?
Parking is generally available at designated access points for the park's trail network. For specific routes, such as the Rocky Point Parking loop from Twin Ponds, parking is indicated as part of the route name, suggesting convenient access points for cyclists.
What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see along the routes?
Brookhaven State Park is part of the Long Island Pine Barrens, offering a landscape of rolling hills and pine-oak forests. You'll encounter diverse habitats, including various oak-pine areas and scattered wetlands. The park is home to flora like flowering dogwood and pitch pine, and coastal plain ponds add to the scenic beauty. The dense forests provide a tranquil setting for your ride.
What do other touring cyclists say about their experience in Brookhaven State Park?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Brookhaven State Park, with an average score of 4.77 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes and the serene natural beauty of the pine-oak forests, making it a peaceful escape for cyclists.
Are there any amenities like cafes or restaurants near the cycling routes?
While Brookhaven State Park itself is a natural preserve, the surrounding areas of Long Island offer various amenities. You'll find cafes and restaurants in nearby towns and villages. It's advisable to check local listings for specific establishments along your chosen route or at your starting/ending points.
Is public transport an option to reach Brookhaven State Park for cycling?
Public transport options directly to the trailheads within Brookhaven State Park may be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or arrange transport to access the park's various entry points. However, you can research local bus services or LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) connections to nearby towns and then cycle to the park from there.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Brookhaven State Park?
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Brookhaven State Park, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter cycling is possible, but some trails might be affected by snow or ice, so checking conditions beforehand is recommended.
Most popular routes in Brookhaven State Park
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