Staten Island loop

This touring bicycle loop is rated as moderate. While some sections, like the New Springville Greenway, are flat and easy, a full loop around Staten Island can be more challenging due to its length and segments on streets with mixed traffic. Riders should be prepared for varied terrain and some unpaved sections.

The route offers a varied riding experience. You'll encounter fully paved multi-use trails, crushed-stone paths, and some gravel sections. For example, parts of the La Tourette Park Greenway may be gravel, and the Staten Island Greenbelt Multi-Purpose Trail is crushed stone. Some segments are on asphalt roads, and a small portion may be unpaved.

You'll pass by several notable spots. Highlights include the beautiful Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, the scenic La Tourette Park Greenway, and the waterfront views at Crookes Point. The route also utilizes dedicated paths like the Father Capodanno Boulevard bike path, offering diverse scenery from natural landscapes to cultural landmarks.

Many cyclists begin their journey at the St. George ferry terminal, making the iconic Staten Island Ferry ride part of the experience. For parking, specific details for this exact loop are not provided, but public transport via the ferry is a popular and convenient option to reach the island.

While not explicitly stated for this specific loop, generally, spring and fall offer the most pleasant cycling conditions on Staten Island, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot, and winter may present challenges with colder weather and potential ice on paths.

Yes, the route integrates various existing paths. It includes sections of the Father Capodanno Blvd Bike Path, New Springville Greenway, Great Kills Park, and the La Tourette Park Greenway, among others. It also touches upon the Greenbelt White Trail and Greenbelt Blue Trail, showcasing Staten Island's extensive network of green spaces.

Based on available information, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this loop or access the public parks and greenways it utilizes.

The route offers a rich variety of scenery, transitioning from natural landscapes to urban and suburban environments. You'll enjoy tree-lined paths, views of marshland and rivers, and areas passing by a model airfield and a golf course. The Greenbelt sections provide an oasis of mature forests, wetlands, and meadows, with opportunities to spot wildlife.

While individual sections like the New Springville Greenway are generally easy and suitable for beginners, the full Staten Island loop is rated as moderate due to its length and some segments on streets with mixed traffic. Beginners or families might prefer to tackle shorter, dedicated greenway sections rather than the entire loop.

The route passes through various urban and suburban areas, so you will likely find amenities such as cafes and shops, particularly near cultural centers like Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden and in commercial districts. Planning your stops in advance is recommended.

Cycling on Staten Island offers a unique blend of experiences. You can start your journey with the iconic Staten Island Ferry ride, explore New York City's largest forest preserve (the Greenbelt), and enjoy diverse trail types from paved greenways to crushed-stone paths. The island also provides opportunities to see wildlife and visit cultural sites like Snug Harbor.