The best MTB trails in New York County

The Hudson River Greenway loop from 86th Street offers a long, scenic ride along Manhattan's western waterfront, perfect for those seeking continuous river views rather than rugged trails. This moderate mountain biking route covers 47.6 miles (76.5 km) with 1862 feet (568 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 4 hours and 18 minutes to complete. You'll ride on a predominantly paved path, enjoying vistas of the Hudson River and the New Jersey Palisades, passing under the George Washington Bridge and by the Little Red Lighthouse.

This route is accessible year-round, but an early start is recommended to navigate the multi-use path, which can get busy with pedestrians and other cyclists. While parking near the 86th Street access point can be tricky in Manhattan, public transport is readily available. The trail is well-equipped with amenities like picnic areas, restrooms, and cafes along its length, making it easy to plan stops.

As part of the larger Empire State Trail and East Coast Greenway, this loop provides an unparalleled car-free experience in a bustling urban environment. It's generally considered family-friendly, with mostly gentle elevation changes, though there is a notable 160-foot climb to Inspiration Point near the George Washington Bridge. This trail is ideal for a leisurely yet substantial ride, offering a unique perspective of the city's waterfront.

This route, named "The Little Red Lighthouse – Flatiron Building loop from 8th Street–New York University," offers a unique urban cycling experience, though it's important to note it's not a traditional mountain biking trail. Instead, you'll primarily follow paved paths like the Hudson River Greenway, enjoying expansive views of the river and passing by the charming Little Red Lighthouse in Fort Washington Park. The journey continues through the vibrant streets of Manhattan, eventually leading you past the architectural marvel of the Flatiron Building, providing a dynamic blend of natural scenery and city landmarks.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the route starts near 8th Street–New York University, an area well-served by public transportation. Given the urban setting, finding convenient parking can be difficult and costly, so public transit is often the best way to reach the trailhead. This moderate 27.1-mile (43.5 km) loop, with 905 feet (276 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 2 hours and 24 minutes, is best enjoyed during the milder seasons of spring and fall, when the weather is ideal for a long city ride.

While the route's name might suggest rugged terrain, it's crucial to understand that this loop is designed for road cycling or recreational biking, not mountain biking. For true mountain biking trails near New York City, you would need to venture outside Manhattan to places like Cunningham Park in Queens or Graham Hills in Pleasantville, which offer the singletrack and varied terrain typically associated with the sport. This particular loop is a fantastic option for those seeking a lengthy, scenic urban bike tour.

The Henry Hudson Drive loop from Alpine offers a unique mountain biking experience, primarily along a scenic multi-use roadway rather than technical singletrack. You'll trace the Hudson River's edge, enjoying picturesque views and access to riverfront areas, with the terrain mostly consisting of smooth asphalt or tarmac, interspersed with some gravel. This route is less about challenging obstacles and more about soaking in the natural beauty of the Palisades Interstate Park, making it ideal for a relaxed yet rewarding ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking available near the Alpine entrance. A key seasonal consideration is that a section of the drive, from Dyckman Hill Road north to Alpine Approach Road, is closed to motor vehicles from December to April, significantly enhancing the biking experience. This makes the cooler months an excellent time to explore, though holiday weekends also see vehicle closures on certain sections.

This moderate 29.8-mile (48.0 km) loop, with 2354 feet (717 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 3 hours and 53 minutes to complete. While the overall ride is not overly difficult, be aware that the Alpine Approach Road section presents a notable climb, considered one of the toughest in the NYC metro area. The historic Henry Hudson Drive itself, constructed between 1912 and 1940, provides a unique blend of natural scenery and engineering heritage.

The Hudson River Greenway – Pier I loop from Canal Street offers a refreshing urban escape, providing continuous, expansive views of the Hudson River, the New Jersey skyline, and various iconic New York City landmarks. This entirely paved, flat route is more about the scenic journey than technical mountain biking, making it an easy 11.3-mile (18.2 km) ride with only 163 feet (50 metres) of elevation gain. You'll pass through Hudson River Park, catching sights of Chelsea Piers and the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, before reaching the popular cafe at Pier I.

Plan for a quick 56-minute ride, but be prepared for heavy traffic from other users, including pedestrians and other cyclists, especially during peak times. Accessing the Canal Street start point is straightforward via public transport, though parking nearby can be a challenge. This route is best enjoyed by those who appreciate a car-free, accessible path with stunning city vistas, rather than a rugged off-road adventure.

What makes this route truly notable is its integration into the vibrant urban fabric of Manhattan, offering a unique perspective of the city from its waterfront. It's part of the larger Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, providing a safe and scenic recreational corridor away from city streets. This trail is perfect for a casual spin, allowing you to seamlessly connect with various city attractions and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of New York City.

The Center Drive, Central Park – Harlem Meer loop offers a fantastic urban biking experience, letting you pedal through Manhattan's green heart. This easy 12.2-mile (19.7 km) route, with only 413 feet (126 metres) of elevation gain, guides you along mostly paved paths, providing a scenic escape from city life. You'll pass by iconic landmarks and enjoy the serene beauty of the Harlem Meer, a tranquil oasis in the park's northern section, making it a perfect ride for about 1 hour and 9 minutes.

Starting conveniently from 34th Street–Penn Station, this loop is easily accessible via public transport. While the park is open year-round, consider visiting in the spring or fall for the most comfortable weather and vibrant foliage. Remember that bikes are restricted to paved paths and not permitted on bridle paths or the Reservoir running track, so plan your route accordingly.

What makes this route truly special is the unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. It's an ideal choice for families or beginner mountain bikers looking for a relaxed ride, offering a chance to see New York City's skyline juxtaposed with lush parkland. The Harlem Meer area, in particular, is known for its wildlife and peaceful atmosphere, providing a refreshing contrast to the city's hustle.