Welcome to Long Island, where nature's beauty intertwines with the opportunity for a healthy lifestyle. Long Island's plethora of bike trails offers more than just a ride; it provides an immersive experience through picturesque landscapes and the benefits of exercise. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, the island's bike trails are waiting to be explored.
The Health Benefits of Cycling
Cycling is not only a fun activity but also a fantastic way to keep yourself fit. Long Island's bike trails offer the perfect setting for a fulfilling workout amidst nature's beauty. Pedaling through the trails provides an excellent cardiovascular workout, strengthening your heart and improving overall fitness levels.
Moreover, cycling is a low-impact exercise that is gentle on the joints, making it ideal for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. It helps in toning muscles, improving coordination, and burning calories, contributing to a healthy lifestyle.
Immersing in Long Island's Natural Splendor
As you cycle along Long Island's scenic bike trails, you are greeted with breathtaking vistas that showcase the island's hidden beauty. The diverse landscapes, from lush green forests to sandy coastal paths, offer a sensory experience like no other.
Riding through the trails allows you to explore hidden gems of Long Island, places you might not stumble upon otherwise. The calming sound of rustling leaves, the sight of vibrant wildflowers, and the fresh scent of the sea are just some of the elements that make cycling on the island a truly memorable experience.
Top Bike Trails on Long Island
Jones Beach Bikeway : Offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, this trail is perfect for riders seeking a coastal adventure. The flat terrain and ocean breeze make it an enjoyable ride for both beginners and experienced cyclists.
Bethpage Bikeway : This trail meanders through beautiful parks and nature reserves, providing a peaceful ride away from the city's hustle. The lush surroundings and babbling brooks create a tranquil ambiance for cyclists.
Sagtikos State Parkway Trail : For history buffs, this trail offers a unique journey through Long Island's past. Cycling along the parkway, you can admire historic sites while reveling in the island's natural splendor.
If you love biking and hiking, you can find many amazing spots to explore on Long Island.
Nassau County
Jones Beach Bike Path — Wantagh
This is one of the most well-known bike trails on Long Island. In-line skaters, joggers, and bikers all use the paved trail, which is about 4 1/2 miles and runs parallel to the Wantagh State Parkway. The scenery is beautiful and it never crosses a road. Once inside the state park, bikes are permitted on the boardwalk, but keep an eye out for pedestrians.
Valley Steam State Park — Valley Stream
This two-mile flat, paved loop provides an easy ride for the whole family. For those looking to extend the ride, the state park trail meets up with Hendrickson Park’s trail for an additional two miles of biking.
Bethpage State Park — Farmingdale
There are actually two bike trails here. The mountain bike trail is four miles long, and the paved trail for runners and hikers is about nine miles long. Part of the larger trail goes through the tranquil Massapequa Preserve, shown above.
Eisenhower Park — East Meadow
With so much to do at Eisenhower Park, this is a great place to bring kids for more than just biking. There is a lake, golf course, baseball fields, and playgrounds. The paved jogging and bike path winds around the area and is suitable for all skill levels.
Suffolk County
Belmont Lake State Park — West Babylon
This trail winds around Belmont Lake in what used to be the estate of August Belmont, who raised thoroughbred horses on the property. Enjoy the scenery on this three-mile, mixed-terrain loop. Take some time on the playground or continue with a pedal boat rental.
Cathedral Pines County Park — Middle Island
Cathedral Pines is situated along Carmans River, making this bike trail rather picturesque. This is a mountain bike trail, so be prepared for dirt paths, some bumps, and slight inclines. However, the park offers trails easy enough for beginner to advanced mountain bikers.
Connetquot River State Park Preserve — Oakdale
This trail parallels Sunrise Highway with a connection into the state park. Its 3,400 acres are a haven for fish, birds, rare plants, and more.
Heckscher State Park — East Islip
Four miles of trails and views of Fire Island across Great South Bay attract riders to this South Shore state park. Visitors often encounter deer, seabirds, and other wildlife.
Sunken Meadow State Park — Kings Park
At just over three miles, this trail takes you through wooded areas, over a creek, and along the beach. Some hilly areas might require you to walk your bike, but you are rewarded with sweeping views of Long Island Sound. This trail is paved and connects to the boardwalk near the end.
Trail View State Park — Huntington
This North Shore path connects Cold Spring Harbor State Park to Bethpage State Park, where you can ride the Greenbelt Trail. Map out your route before heading out as trails split off and lead to different locations. The Trail View path is FREE, and is accessible from many roads, including Jericho Turnpike in Woodbury.
The East End
Hither Hills State Park — Montauk
Another mountain biking trail, Hither Hills combines advanced courses with paths suitable for novice riders. Be sure to pick up a trail map at the campground or Montauk Chamber of Commerce as the trails are not marked. Be prepared for some puddles in low spots, bumps, and some overgrowth across the path. As with any trek through the woods, a first aid kit is good to have.
Riverfront Trail — Riverhead
At a half-mile long, this scenic boardwalk trail follows the Peconic River past the Long Island Aquarium and into downtown Riverhead.
Wildwood State Park — Wading River
With a total of 12 miles, this trail is a good option for families with older kids, or younger ones if you have a trailer. Expect some hilly terrain with a mix of paved and unpaved areas. There are plenty of rest stops along the way to help little legs recover from the hill climbs as well as offering spots to stop for lunch.
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