The best traffic-free bike rides around New York

New York offers a diverse selection of no-traffic road cycling routes. This guide features 13 routes, with 11 categorized as easy and 2 as moderate, making them accessible for various skill levels. The state's extensive network, including sections of the Erie Canalway Trail and dedicated park loops, provides many car-free options.

Yes, New York has many family-friendly options. The Prospect Park West Drive – East Drive loop from 9th Street is an excellent example of an easy, car-free loop within the city. Outside of NYC, the Cayuga Waterfront Trail in the Finger Lakes region and sections of the Erie Canalway Trail are known for their flat, paved surfaces, perfect for casual riders and families.

Absolutely. Many of the no-traffic routes are designed as loops, offering a continuous ride without retracing your steps. For instance, the Prospect Park Loop – Prospect Park loop from Park Place is a popular circular route in Brooklyn. Other loops, like the Prospect Park West Drive – East Drive loop from Court Street, provide varying distances within the same car-free environment.

New York's no-traffic routes often pass by stunning natural and historical attractions. In Central Park, you can cycle past landmarks like Belvedere Castle and the Harlem Meer. The Hudson Valley offers sweeping views of the Hudson River, while the Adirondacks boast picturesque vistas and deep lakes. The Finger Lakes region is known for its scenic gorges and waterfalls. Even within the city, routes like the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway offer iconic views of the skyline and the Hudson River.

Access varies by location. For routes within New York City, public transport (subway, bus) is often the most convenient option, allowing you to bring your bike during off-peak hours. Many parks like Prospect Park have nearby street parking or paid lots. For routes outside the city, such as those in the Hudson Valley or along the Erie Canalway, designated parking areas are usually available at trailheads. Always check specific route details for the best access points.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for no-traffic road cycling in New York. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while summer provides warm weather for longer rides. However, fall is particularly spectacular, with the vibrant foliage of the Hudson Valley, Catskills, and Adirondacks making for breathtaking rides. Some urban car-free paths remain accessible in winter, but conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice.

While popular routes like Prospect Park can get busy, especially on weekends, you can find less crowded options. Exploring routes in the Catskill Mountains or less-traveled sections of the Erie Canalway Trail can offer a more serene experience. Even near NYC, routes like the Willow Pond loop from Beach 25th Street might offer a different pace than the most central park loops.

While this guide focuses on easier no-traffic routes, New York State offers challenging road cycling experiences. For experienced riders seeking significant climbs and demanding terrain, areas like Bear Mountain and the Storm King route in the Hudson Valley, or routes near Whiteface Mountain in the Adirondacks, provide substantial elevation gains and rewarding descents. These are often on roads with minimal traffic rather than fully car-free paths.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in New York, with an average score of 4.48 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, from the serene waterfronts of the Finger Lakes to the challenging ascents of the Hudson Valley. The availability of dedicated car-free paths and scenic byways is frequently highlighted, allowing cyclists to enjoy the diverse landscapes without vehicle interference.

Many no-traffic routes, especially those in urban parks or along well-developed trails like the Erie Canalway, often have cafes, restrooms, and other amenities conveniently located. For example, routes around Prospect Park are close to many Brooklyn neighborhoods with food and drink options. For longer rides in more rural areas, it's always a good idea to plan your stops in advance, though many small towns along scenic byways offer local establishments.

Generally, no specific permits are required for cycling on public roads, dedicated bike paths, or state park trails in New York. However, some private preserves or specific events might have their own rules or entry fees. It's always best to check the official website of the park or trail you plan to visit for any specific regulations or permit requirements, especially for areas like Mohonk Preserve which features carriage roads.