The best traffic-free bike rides in New York

New York offers a vast network of car-free road cycling routes. On komoot, you'll find over 1200 routes specifically curated for a no-traffic experience, ranging from easy rides to more challenging adventures.

Yes, New York has many easy and family-friendly options. The state's extensive greenways and rails-to-trails conversions are perfect for relaxed rides. For example, sections of the Erie Canalway Trail, like the route from DeWitt to Chittenango, offer flat, paved surfaces ideal for all ages. You'll find over 390 easy routes on komoot.

New York is home to excellent rails-to-trails conversions, providing smooth, traffic-free paths. The Erie Canalway Trail is a prime example, offering hundreds of miles across the state. Specific sections like the Erie Canalway Trail from DeWitt to Canastota or Camillus to Jordan are popular for their flat terrain and scenic views.

While truly traffic-free routes are often flatter, New York's mountainous regions like the Adirondacks and Catskills offer challenging climbs on quiet, low-traffic roads. For a significant workout, consider routes that incorporate sections of the Hudson River Valley, such as the Long Island Sound loop via Stanwich Road, which features substantial elevation gain.

The best time for no-traffic road biking in New York is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the natural scenery is at its peak. Fall offers stunning foliage, especially in regions like the Hudson Valley and the Adirondacks.

Yes, many traffic-free routes are designed as loops or can be combined with other sections to create a loop. Urban greenways, like those in Central Park or Roosevelt Island, offer classic loop experiences. For longer rides, sections of the Empire State Trail or various waterfront greenways can be linked to form circular routes, providing diverse scenery without retracing your path.

New York's no-traffic routes offer incredibly diverse scenic views. You can expect stunning waterfront vistas along the Hudson River Greenway and Brooklyn Waterfront, lush forests and rolling hills in the Hudson Valley, and picturesque landscapes along the Erie Canalway Trail. The Finger Lakes region also boasts waterfalls and lake views, while routes near the Adirondacks provide pristine wilderness scenery.

Many routes pass by or near interesting landmarks and natural features. Along urban greenways, you might spot iconic structures like the Brooklyn Bridge or the Times Square area. Further afield, routes can lead you past historic sites, charming villages, and natural wonders. For example, the Black Diamond Trail in the Finger Lakes offers picturesque waterfalls and views of Cayuga Lake.

Public transport access varies by location. In New York City, many subway lines and buses provide access to urban greenways like the Hudson River Greenway or Central Park. For routes outside the city, regional trains or buses might connect to trailheads, especially for popular routes like sections of the Empire State Trail. It's always best to check specific public transport schedules and bike policies for your chosen route.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in New York, with an average score of 4.57 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the car-free paths, the stunning natural beauty, and the variety of routes available. Many appreciate the well-maintained surfaces of the greenways and the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, from urban waterfronts to serene canal paths, without the stress of vehicle traffic.

Yes, many of New York's traffic-free routes, especially those outside urban centers, offer excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Trails winding through state parks, along river valleys, or through forested areas are prime locations. The Catskills and Adirondacks, with their vast wilderness, are particularly rich in diverse wildlife, and even routes along the Hudson River or Jamaica Bay can offer sightings of various bird species and other small animals.

Parking availability varies by route. Many popular trailheads for greenways and rails-to-trails conversions, such as sections of the Erie Canalway Trail or the Kingston to Upper Ashokan Reservoir route, often have designated parking lots. In urban areas, public parking garages or street parking might be available near access points. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for recommended parking locations before you go.