The best cycling routes in New York

New York offers a vast network for touring cyclists, with over 1800 routes documented on komoot. These routes cater to all skill levels, from easy urban loops to challenging multi-day excursions through diverse landscapes.

Yes, New York has numerous easy routes perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Center Drive, Central Park – Tennis Courts in Central Park loop from Manhattan Island offers a car-free experience through an iconic city park. Another great option is the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway and Central Park Loop, providing scenic views with minimal elevation gain.

New York's touring routes boast diverse scenery. You can cycle along the iconic Hudson River, enjoy views of the Great Lakes, or explore the rolling hills of the Catskill Mountains. Routes like the Manhattan and Brooklyn Waterfront Greenways Loop offer extensive waterfront vistas. For stunning natural beauty, the Adirondack Park provides routes with panoramic mountain views, such as the challenging Lake Placid, Jay & Wilmington loop.

Yes, many routes in New York are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your path. Examples include the Palisades loop over the Hudson, which provides scenic views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline, and the Jamaica Bay Greenway Loop, offering a unique coastal experience.

Many routes pass by significant landmarks and natural attractions. In New York City, you can cycle through Central Park, passing iconic spots like Central Park — 5th Avenue & 59th Street Entrance. The Hudson Valley features the The High Line, and the Catskills offer natural wonders like Kaaterskill Falls. For a unique experience, consider visiting the Ice Caves in the Catskill Mountains.

The best time for touring cycling in New York is generally from spring through fall. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes, while summer is ideal for enjoying the state's many lakes and waterways. Fall is particularly popular for its vibrant foliage, especially in regions like the Catskills and Adirondacks, providing breathtaking backdrops for your rides.

Absolutely. New York is home to monumental long-distance trails like the 750-mile Empire State Trail, which includes the Erie Canalway Trail. These extensive networks offer opportunities for multi-day touring, allowing cyclists to explore vast stretches of the state's diverse terrain, from urban centers to rural landscapes and coastal areas.

Many of New York's cycling routes, especially those within and around New York City, are highly accessible by public transport. Urban greenways often have subway or bus stops nearby. For routes outside the city, numerous trailheads and parks offer dedicated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient access points.

The touring cycling routes in New York are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1800 reviews. Cyclists often praise the incredible diversity of landscapes, from the serene waterfront paths to the challenging mountain climbs, and the well-maintained trails that make exploring the state on two wheels a truly rewarding experience.

Yes, New York offers several coastal touring cycling routes. The Great Lakes Seaway Trail stretches for 454 miles along the state's freshwater coastline. Within New York City, routes like the Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway and the Brooklyn Waterfront and Ocean Parkway Loop provide picturesque rides with ocean views.

Yes, New York is rich in natural wilderness. The Catskill Mountains, for example, feature the Bluestone Wild Forest, offering routes through lakes, ponds, and dense forests. The Adirondack Park is another vast wilderness area with numerous trails. The Harlem Valley Rail-Trail also provides a bucolic ride through woodlands and wetlands, perfect for those seeking a natural escape.