The best traffic-free bike rides in New York

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Albany County Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail, a route that spans 17.9 miles (28.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 408 feet (124 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 1 hour and 40 minutes. The trail offers a changing landscape, moving from urban fringes near Albany into quieter suburban and pastoral settings. As you cycle, keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer and bald eagles, especially in the more wooded areas. A highlight is crossing the Rail Trail Bridge over Normans Kill Creek, where you might spot a small waterfall. This fully paved path is suitable for all fitness levels and bicycle types.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with convenient parking available at several trailheads. You can start your ride from South Pearl Street in Albany or Grove Street in Voorheesville. The South Pearl Street location is particularly useful, offering a bike station with tools and an air pump if you need them. Rental bikes are also accessible there through CDPHP Cycle! For a quick stop, a Stewart's convenience store is situated roughly three miles from the Albany trailhead, providing refreshments during your ride.

The Albany County Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail follows the old Delaware & Hudson Railroad bed, giving it a smooth, consistent grade. This historical railway conversion makes it a unique pathway through the region. Beyond its natural appeal, the trail also features public art installations as part of the "Art on the Rail Trail," adding a cultural dimension to your outdoor experience. It stands out as a well-maintained and accessible option for exploring the area by bike.

The Staten Island loop offers a unique touring cycling experience, blending urban greenways with serene natural landscapes. You'll pedal through diverse ecosystems, from the peaceful woodlands and wetlands of the Greenbelt to the refreshing sea air along the South Beach/Midland Beach Greenway. Expect a mix of paved paths, crushed stone, and some gravel sections, providing a varied and engaging ride that showcases Staten Island's surprising natural features for cycling.

This moderate 33.3-mile (53.6 km) route, with 736 feet (224 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 27 minutes. While many sections are flat and easy, some parts, especially those linking different trails or on gravel, require attention. Consider starting your ride in the morning to avoid peak traffic and enjoy the best weather, particularly during spring or fall. Parking is available at various points along the route, and public transport access to Staten Island cycling routes is convenient.

What makes this Staten Island bike trails loop truly notable is its ability to connect a wide array of environments within an urban setting. It's a testament to the borough's commitment to green spaces, offering a continuous network that moves from preserved natural areas to coastal views and historic landmarks like the Snug Harbor Cultural Center. This route is perfect for cyclists seeking a substantial ride with varied scenery and a chance to explore the less-traveled paths of New York City.

The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail Loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through the heart of the Hudson Valley. You'll pedal through a mix of mature woodlands, open fields, and farmland, enjoying views of the Wallkill River and the distant Shawangunk Ridge. The route features notable landmarks like the Springtown Truss Bridge and the impressive Rosendale Trestle, which provides expansive vistas.

This easy 15.4-mile (24.8 km) loop, with a gentle 349 feet (106 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete. The terrain is primarily crushed stone, with some paved sections and gravel on connecting trails, making it ideal for hybrid or mountain bikes. The trail is well-maintained and connects several charming towns, offering convenient stops for refreshments.

Beyond its natural beauty, the trail boasts significant historical context, following the corridor of the former Wallkill Valley Railroad and passing through areas like the Huguenot Street Historic District. It's a key part of the larger Empire State Trail network, providing excellent connectivity for extended touring cycling routes and access to extensive woodlands within the Mohonk Preserve.

The Mohonk Preserve loop from New Paltz via Humpty Dumpty Road cycling route offers a truly immersive experience through the Shawangunk Ridge. This difficult 22.8-mile (36.6 km) touring cycling route, with its 1966 feet (599 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 32 minutes to complete. You'll navigate unpaved carriage roads, winding through hemlock and pitch pine forests, past massive conglomerate boulders, and encounter scenic viewpoints overlooking Mohonk Lake and the distant Catskills.

Planning your ride requires a $20 day pass for the Mohonk Preserve; an annual membership grants earlier access starting at 7 AM. Given the varied Mohonk Preserve cycling terrain, which includes gravel, dirt, and steep, rocky sections, a gravel or mountain bike is highly recommended for this challenging loop. There are no specific public transport options mentioned, so plan for car access.

This route is part of the Mohonk Preserve's extensive network of historic carriage roads, originally built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The preserve spans over 8,000 acres of protected land, showcasing unique geological features like the "Giant's Workshop" on Humpty Dumpty Road, a valley filled with gigantic white boulders. It's a National Historic Landmark, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.