New York is a state that’s rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it the perfect destination for cyclists of all levels. With its diverse terrain, from rolling hills to flat plains, and its stunning vistas, New York offers a wealth of biking trails that are perfect for exploring.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, there’s a trail in New York that’s perfect for you. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best 28 biking trails in New York, from the scenic Hudson Valley to the rugged Adirondacks.
So, grab your helmet, hop on your bike, and get ready to pedal through paradise!
Non-RT (route that is not used for transportation purposes)
| Name | States/Counties | Length | Surfaces | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albany-Hudson Electric Trail | New York, Columbia, Rensselaer | 36 miles | Asphalt, Crushed Stone | Rail-Trail |
| Bethpage Bikeway | Nassau | 13.4 miles | Asphalt | Greenway/Non-RT |
| Bronx River Greenway | Bronx, Westchester | 24.8 miles | Asphalt, Boardwalk, Concrete | Greenway/Non-RT |
| Catharine Valley Trail | Chemung, Schuyler | 14 miles | Asphalt, Crushed Stone | Rail-Trail |
| Cunningham Park | Queens | 4.1 miles | Crushed Stone | Crushed Stone |
| Ellen Farrant Memorial Bikeway | Nassau | 5.5 miles | Asphalt | Greenway/Non-RT |
| Erie Canalway Trail | Albany, Cayuga, Erie, Herkimer, Madison, Monroe, Montgomery, Niagara, Oneida, Onondaga, Orleans, Schenectady, Wayne | 291.9 miles | Asphalt, Concrete, Crushed Stone | Rail-Trail |
| Harlem Valley Rail Trail | Columbia, Dutchess | 23.2 miles | Asphalt, Crushed Stone | Rail-Trail |
| Heritage Trail (NY) | New York, Orange | 19.5 miles | Asphalt, Crushed Stone, Dirt | Rail-Trail |
| Hook Mountain/Nyack Beach Bikeway | Rockland | 4.9 miles | Asphalt, Ballast, Crushed Stone, Dirt, Gravel | Greenway/Non-RT |
| Hudson River Greenway | New York | 12.9 miles | Asphalt, Concrete | Greenway/Non-RT |
| Hudson Valley Rail Trail | Ulster | 7.1 miles | Asphalt | Rail-Trail |
| Jones Point Path | Rockland | 2 miles | Asphalt | Greenway/Non-RT |
| Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail | Rockland | 4.1 miles | Asphalt | Rail-Trail |
| Keuka Outlet Trail | Yates | 6.7 miles | Asphalt, Ballast, Dirt, Gravel | Rail-Trail |
| Lackawanna Rail Trail | Chemung | 8.7 miles | Asphalt | Rail-Trail |
| Lancaster Heritage Trail | Erie | 4 miles | Asphalt | Rail-Trail |
| Maybrook Trailway | Dutchess, Putnam | 26.85 miles | Asphalt | Rail-Trail |
| North County Trailway | Westchester | 20.7 miles | Asphalt | Rail-Trail |
| O&W Rail Trail | Sullivan, Ulster | 25.9 miles | Asphalt, Cinder, Crushed Stone, Dirt, Grass | Rail-Trail |
| Putnam Trailway | Putnam | 11.9 miles | Asphalt | Rail-Trail |
| South County Trailway | Westchester | 14.4 miles | Asphalt, Concrete | Rail-Trail |
| Stewart State Forest | Orange | 22 miles | Crushed Stone, Dirt | Greenway/Non-RT |
| Walden-Wallkill Rail Trail | Orange, Ulster | 4.3 miles | Asphalt, Ballast, Cinder, Crushed Stone, Dirt, Grass, Gravel | Rail-Trail |
| Walkway Over The Hudson | Dutchess, Ulster | 1.6 miles | Concrete | Rail-Trail |
| Wallkill Valley Rail Trail | Ulster | 21.3 miles | Asphalt, Cinder, Dirt, Gravel | Rail-Trail |
| William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail | Dutchess | 13.1 miles | Asphalt | Rail-Trail |
Table of Contents
- Albany-Hudson Electric Trail
- Bethpage Bikeway
- Bronx River Greenway
- Catharine Valley Trail
- Cunningham Park
- Ellen Farrant Memorial Bikeway
- Erie Canalway Trail
- Harlem Valley Rail Trail
- Heritage Trail (NY)
- Hook Mountain/Nyack Beach Bikeway
- Hudson River Greenway
- Hudson Valley Rail Trail
- Jones Point Path
- Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail
- Keuka Outlet Trail
- Lackawanna Rail Trail
- Lancaster Heritage Trail
- Maybrook Trailway
- North County Trailway
- O&W Rail Trail
- Putnam Trailway
- South County Trailway
- Stewart State Forest
- Walden-Wallkill Rail Trail
- Walkway Over The Hudson
- Wallkill Valley Rail Trail
- William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail
- Empire State Trail
Albany-Hudson Electric Trail
The Albany-Hudson Electric Trail is a popular biking trail in New York that spans 36 miles across Columbia and Rensselaer counties.
The trail is a rail-trail, meaning it was built on an old railroad corridor, and features both asphalt and crushed stone surfaces. It is a great option for bikers of all skill levels, as it offers a smooth and scenic ride through the Hudson Valley.
Along the way, bikers can enjoy stunning views of the Hudson River and the surrounding landscape. The trail also provides access to several historic sites, including the Martin Van Buren National Historic Site.
Overall, the Albany-Hudson Electric Trail is a must-visit destination for biking enthusiasts in New York.
Bethpage Bikeway
The Bethpage Bikeway is a popular biking trail located in Nassau County, New York. The trail spans 13.4 miles and is primarily made of asphalt, providing a smooth and comfortable ride for bikers.
The trail is a non-motorized, greenway path, perfect for those looking to enjoy a peaceful ride through nature. The trail is well-maintained and features several rest areas, making it an ideal destination for long-distance bikers.
Along the trail, bikers will enjoy scenic views of the surrounding woodlands, parks, and wetlands. The Bethpage Bikeway is accessible to bikers of all skill levels, making it a great option for families and beginners.
Bronx River Greenway
The Bronx River Greenway is a 24.8-mile trail that runs through the Bronx and Westchester counties.
The trail is a combination of asphalt, boardwalk, and concrete surfaces, making it suitable for both biking and walking. The trail is a greenway/non-RT type, which means that it is a multi-use trail that is not designated solely for biking.
The trail is well-maintained, with scenic views of the Bronx River and surrounding areas. The trail is accessible to bikers of all skill levels, with some sections being flat and others having more challenging terrain.
Overall, the Bronx River Greenway offers a great biking experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty of New York.
Catharine Valley Trail
The Catharine Valley Trail is a 14-mile long rail-trail that spans across the counties of Chemung and Schuyler in New York.
The trail offers a mix of asphalt and crushed stone surfaces that are perfect for biking. The trail is well-maintained and provides a smooth ride for cyclists of all skill levels.
The trail features stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including rolling hills, farmland, and forests. The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Cyclists can enjoy a peaceful ride on the rail trail, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Overall, the Catharine Valley Trail is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of New York on two wheels.
Cunningham Park
Cunningham Park is a popular biking destination in Queens, New York. The park offers a 4.1-mile crushed stone trail that is perfect for biking. The trail is well-maintained and provides a smooth surface for bikers to ride on.
The park is known for its scenic views and diverse terrain, making it a great place for bikers of all skill levels. The trail is also accessible to walkers and runners, but bikers should be aware of other trail users and yield when necessary.
Overall, Cunningham Park is a great option for bikers looking for a challenging and enjoyable ride in Queens.
Ellen Farrant Memorial Bikeway
The Ellen Farrant Memorial Bikeway in Nassau County, New York is a popular biking trail that spans 5.5 miles in length.
The trail is surfaced with asphalt and is a greenway/non-RT type of trail. It is a well-maintained trail that offers a smooth and enjoyable biking experience for riders of all levels.
The bikeway is named after Ellen Farrant, a local resident who was passionate about promoting biking and other outdoor activities in the community. The trail is accessible to bikers of all ages and provides a safe and scenic route for commuters and recreational riders alike.
With its beautiful scenery and well-marked paths, the Ellen Farrant Memorial Bikeway is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to bike in Nassau County.
Erie Canalway Trail
The Erie Canalway Trail is a 291.9-mile trail that stretches across New York, passing through 12 counties including Albany, Cayuga, Erie, Herkimer, Madison, Monroe, Montgomery, Niagara, Oneida, Onondaga, Orleans, and Schenectady.
The trail is a popular destination for biking enthusiasts, offering a variety of surfaces including asphalt, concrete, and crushed stone. The trail type is a rail-trail, which means that it follows the path of the Erie Canal and offers a unique way to experience the history of the region.
With its scenic views and well-maintained trail surfaces, the Erie Canalway Trail is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore New York’s rich biking culture.
Harlem Valley Rail Trail
The Harlem Valley Rail Trail is a 23.2-mile long rail-trail located in New York, stretching through the counties of Columbia and Dutchess.
The trail’s surface is made up of both asphalt and crushed stone, making it a comfortable ride for bikers of all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for biking and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Along the way, bikers can enjoy scenic views of the Harlem Valley, including rolling hills, farmland, and forests.
The trail is also home to several historic sites, including the Copake Iron Works and the Wassaic Train Station. The Harlem Valley Rail Trail is a great destination for bikers looking for a peaceful and picturesque ride through the beautiful New York countryside.
Heritage Trail (NY)
The Heritage Trail in New York is a popular biking trail that spans 19.5 miles in Orange County.
The trail features a mix of surfaces, including asphalt, crushed stone, and dirt, making it suitable for a variety of bikes and skill levels. As a rail-trail, the Heritage Trail follows the path of a former railroad line, providing a unique and scenic biking experience.
Along the way, bikers can enjoy views of the surrounding countryside, including farmland, forests, and streams. The trail is well-maintained and offers plenty of rest areas and amenities, including restrooms, parking, and picnic areas.
Overall, the Heritage Trail is a great option for bikers looking for a fun and challenging ride in New York.
Hook Mountain/Nyack Beach Bikeway
The Hook Mountain/Nyack Beach Bikeway in New York is a 4.9-mile trail that offers a variety of surfaces for bikers to enjoy. The trail surfaces include asphalt, ballast, crushed stone, dirt, and gravel.
The trail is classified as a greenway/non-RT trail, which means that it is primarily designed for recreational use and is not used for transportation purposes. The trail is located in Rockland County and offers scenic views of the Hudson River and Hook Mountain.
The trail is suitable for bikers of all skill levels, and there are several access points along the way. The trail is well-maintained and provides a safe and enjoyable biking experience for all who use it.
Hudson River Greenway
The Hudson River Greenway is a popular biking trail located in New York City. It spans a distance of 12.9 miles and is a non-motorized trail that is open to bikers, walkers, and runners.
The trail is made up of both asphalt and concrete surfaces, making it suitable for a variety of biking styles and preferences. The trail runs along the Hudson River and offers stunning views of the water and the city skyline.
It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, and is a great way to explore the city while getting some exercise. The Hudson River Greenway is well-maintained and offers a safe and enjoyable biking experience for riders of all skill levels.
Hudson Valley Rail Trail
The Hudson Valley Rail Trail is a popular biking trail located in Ulster County, New York. Spanning 7.1 miles, this rail-trail offers a smooth and easy ride for bikers of all skill levels.
The trail surface is made of asphalt, making it ideal for road bikes and other types of bicycles. The trail is well-maintained and provides a scenic route, passing through beautiful landscapes and historic sites.
The trail is open year-round, offering bikers the opportunity to enjoy the trail in all seasons. The Hudson Valley Rail Trail is a great option for those looking for a leisurely ride or a challenging workout.
Jones Point Path
Jones Point Path is a 2-mile long biking trail located in Rockland County, New York. The trail surface is made of asphalt, making it a smooth ride for cyclists.
It is classified as a greenway/non-RT trail, which means it is a dedicated path for biking and walking, and does not allow motorized vehicles.
The trail offers scenic views of the Hudson River and is a popular destination for bikers of all skill levels. Jones Point Path is well-maintained and offers a safe and enjoyable biking experience for visitors to the area.
Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail
The Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail in Rockland County, New York, is a popular biking destination that spans a length of 4.1 miles. The trail is surfaced with asphalt, providing a smooth and comfortable ride for bikers of all skill levels.
As a rail-trail, the Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail follows the path of a former railroad line, offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is well-maintained and offers ample opportunities for rest and relaxation, with benches and picnic areas available for use.
The Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail is a great choice for bikers looking for a peaceful and enjoyable ride through the beautiful New York countryside.
Keuka Outlet Trail
The Keuka Outlet Trail is a popular biking trail located in New York’s Yates County. This rail-trail spans a length of 6.7 miles and offers a variety of trail surfaces including asphalt, ballast, dirt, and gravel.
The trail is well-maintained and offers scenic views of the surrounding area. It is a popular destination for biking enthusiasts of all skill levels. The trail is also accessible to hikers and joggers.
The Keuka Outlet Trail provides a unique biking experience that allows visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region while getting some exercise.
Lackawanna Rail Trail
The Lackawanna Rail Trail in New York is an 8.7-mile long rail-trail that runs through Chemung County. The trail is paved with asphalt, making it ideal for biking enthusiasts.
The trail follows the former route of the Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western Railroad, providing a scenic and historic experience for riders. The trail is relatively flat, making it suitable for riders of all skill levels.
The Lackawanna Rail Trail is also wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for cyclists with disabilities. The trail is open year-round and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
Lancaster Heritage Trail
The Lancaster Heritage Trail is a popular biking trail located in Erie County, New York. This rail-trail spans a distance of 4 miles and is surfaced with asphalt, making it an ideal destination for cyclists of all levels.
The trail follows the former Buffalo and Depew Railroad corridor and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, bikers can explore the rich history of the area through interpretive signage and exhibits.
The Lancaster Heritage Trail is a great place to enjoy a leisurely bike ride with family and friends, or to challenge oneself with a more intense workout. Cyclists can easily access the trailhead from a nearby parking area, making it a convenient destination for those looking to explore the outdoors.
Maybrook Trailway
Maybrook Trailway is a 26.85-mile-long biking trail located in Dutchess and Putnam counties in New York. The trail is made up of asphalt surfaces, making it a smooth ride for cyclists.
The trail type is a rail-trail, which means it was once a railroad corridor that has been converted into a trail for biking and other recreational activities. The Maybrook Trailway offers a scenic and peaceful ride, passing through forests, wetlands, and farmlands.
The trail is suitable for bikers of all skill levels, with a gentle incline that makes it perfect for a leisurely ride. The trail is also accessible to pedestrians and is open year-round.
North County Trailway
The North County Trailway is a popular biking trail located in Westchester County, New York. The trail stretches for 20.7 miles and is entirely paved with asphalt, providing a smooth and comfortable ride for cyclists of all skill levels.
The trail is a former rail line and is classified as a rail-trail. It runs from Eastview in the town of Mount Pleasant to Baldwin Place in the town of Somers. Along the way, cyclists can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding countryside, including forests, fields, and streams.
The North County Trailway is a great option for those looking for a leisurely ride or a challenging workout, and it is easily accessible from many nearby towns and cities.
O&W Rail Trail
The O&W Rail Trail in New York is a 25.9-mile long trail that is perfect for biking enthusiasts. The trail is a rail-trail type and offers a variety of surfaces including asphalt, cinder, crushed stone, dirt, and grass.
The trail runs through two counties in New York, Sullivan, and Ulster, and is known for its scenic beauty. The trail is well-maintained and offers bikers a smooth and enjoyable ride.
The trail is also a popular destination for families and groups, as it offers a safe and comfortable environment for all levels of bikers. Overall, the O&W Rail Trail is a must-visit destination for biking enthusiasts in New York.
Putnam Trailway
The Putnam Trailway is an 11.9-mile rail-trail located in Putnam County, New York. The trailway is entirely paved with asphalt, making it an ideal route for cycling enthusiasts.
The trailway is a popular destination for both recreational and commuting cyclists, as it provides a safe and scenic route through the heart of Putnam County. The trailway is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including forests, wetlands, and streams.
The trailway is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, as it is home to a wide variety of bird species. Overall, the Putnam Trailway is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of Putnam County on two wheels.
South County Trailway
The South County Trailway is a popular biking trail located in Westchester County, New York. It spans a length of 14.4 miles, making it one of the longest biking trails in the area.
The trail surface is made up of asphalt and concrete, providing a smooth and comfortable ride for bikers of all skill levels. The trail type is a rail-trail, which means it follows the path of a former railroad line.
Along the way, bikers can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape, including forests, wetlands, and parks. The South County Trailway is a great destination for biking enthusiasts looking for a challenging and rewarding ride.
Stewart State Forest
Stewart State Forest is a popular biking destination located in Orange County, New York. The forest offers a network of trails that span over 22 miles in length, making it a great place for bikers of all skill levels to explore.
The trail surfaces consist of crushed stone and dirt, providing a natural and scenic experience for riders. The forest is classified as a greenway/non-RT trail, meaning it is not a rail-trail but rather a natural trail system.
The trails wind through a variety of terrain, including forests, fields, and wetlands, providing bikers with a diverse and challenging experience. Overall, Stewart State Forest is a must-visit destination for bikers looking to explore the natural beauty of New York.
Walden-Wallkill Rail Trail
The Walden-Wallkill Rail Trail is a 4.3-mile long rail-trail located in Orange and Ulster Counties, New York. The trail surface is made up of a combination of asphalt, ballast, cinder, crushed stone, dirt, grass, and gravel, making it suitable for a variety of biking experiences.
The Walden-Wallkill Rail Trail is classified as a rail-trail, meaning it was once a railroad corridor that has been converted into a multi-use trail. The trail offers scenic views of the Wallkill River and surrounding countryside.
Bikers can expect a relatively flat trail with some gentle inclines, making it accessible for riders of all skill levels. The trail is open year-round and provides a peaceful and enjoyable biking experience for both locals and visitors.
Walkway Over The Hudson
Walkway Over The Hudson is a 1.6-mile long biking trail located in New York. The trail is situated in Dutchess and Ulster counties and is a popular destination for biking enthusiasts.
The trail surface is made of concrete, making it ideal for biking. Walkway Over The Hudson is categorized as a rail-trail, which means it was built on an abandoned railroad corridor. The trail is a unique experience for bikers as it offers stunning views of the Hudson River and the surrounding areas.
The trail is also wheelchair accessible, making it a great destination for people of all abilities. Overall, Walkway Over The Hudson is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves biking and wants to experience the beauty of New York’s natural landscape.
Wallkill Valley Rail Trail
The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is a 21.3-mile bike trail located in Ulster County, New York. The trail is a popular destination for biking enthusiasts and offers a variety of surfaces including asphalt, cinder, dirt, and gravel.
The trail is categorized as a rail-trail and offers a scenic route through the Wallkill River Valley. The trail is relatively flat, making it suitable for bikers of all skill levels. The trail features several trailheads, parking areas, and restrooms for the convenience of bikers.
The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beautiful countryside of Ulster County by bike.
William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail
The William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail is a 13.1-mile long trail located in Dutchess County, New York. The trail is an asphalt surface that is perfect for biking, and is designated as a rail-trail.
The trail is named after William R. Steinhaus, a former Dutchess County Executive who played a key role in the development of the trail. The trail is open year-round and is accessible to riders of all skill levels. Along the trail, riders can enjoy scenic views of the Hudson River, as well as various parks and historic sites.
The trail also features several amenities, including restrooms, parking, and picnic areas. Overall, the William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail is a great option for anyone looking for a scenic and enjoyable biking experience in Dutchess County.
Empire State Trail
The Empire State Trail is a 750-mile biking trail that spans across New York State. The trail is open to bikers and walkers of all ages and abilities, making it accessible to a wide range of people.
It takes riders through New York City, the Hudson River Valley, Buffalo along the Erie Canal, and north to the Champlain Valley and Adirondacks. The trail offers a unique opportunity to experience New York’s diverse history, iconic landscapes, and special places.
With its urban centers, village main streets, and rural communities, the Empire State Trail is a great way to explore the state’s rich culture and beautiful scenery.
