Most people have no idea, but Connecticut is one of the few states that you can cross end-to-end on a car-free bike path: the he Farmington Canal Heritage Trail
But it gets even better: you can also go an extensive distance in Massachusetts as well, on the same bike path for an even bigger ride.
It still gets better: the bike path connects to well-marked on-road bike route networks in Massachusetts once the trail ends.
It STILL gets better….you can leverage a new commuter rail system to do your epic ride one way.
So what’s the deal? Why don’t you know about this trail yet? Well, I am going to tell you. This trail is awesome! It is so well put together, you’ll think you are in Germany, riding down a scenic radweg, designed by engineers and landscape architects who really care about bikes. Except the Dunkin’ Donuts you just passed will remind you that those dedicated professionals who put this trail together are from Connecticut…and wow – what a great trail.
Do this ride self-guided with a trip plan and GPS!
The main issue with the elusiveness of this trail probably has something to do with the fact that it changes names as it goes through different areas. And, of course, you have to go to different websites to get the maps for the differently named trail sections. So that makes it trickier to put your ride together. But make no mistake: you can ride from Amherst, MA to New Haven, CT with only a small amount of on-road riding. And those on-road sections are shrinking as gaps in the trail continue to get bridged with new trail segments. And where the gaps exist, there’s good signage to keep you moving. And sometimes there’s trail alongside the road where you can ride without dealing with cars. Amazing!
Massachusetts Section
Connecticut Section
Although this trail is called a “canal heritage trail” since it follows the route of a canal that once went from New Haven to Northampton, the canal was mostly obliterated by the railroads that came in later. So the trail is basically a rail-trail, laid down where the tracks used to go. It is all paved, and you go through town after town after town….so plenty of services, places to eat, places to stay, etc. And don’t forget that the trail closely parallels the new CT Rail commuter rail Hartford Line service in between New Haven and Springfield, which accommodates bikes. You can also bring your bike aboard the Amtrak Vermonter if you want to travel further north on the train to Northampton or beyond.
Do this ride self-guided with a trip plan and GPS!
New CT Rail Hartford Line trains parallel this bike trail, offering good bike-friendly transit access
Here’s a breakdown of the the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail (and the segments with other names) from North to South:
Norwottuck Rail Trail – https://www.mass.gov/locations/norwottuck-rail-trail While not directly a part of the Farmington Canal system, this rail trail hooks directly into the trail Northampton. It provides a great extension of the trail between Amherst and downtown Northampton where it hooks directly into….
Manhan Rail Trail – https://manhanrailtrail.org/ This is the name of the trail once you leave Northampton and get into East Hampton. (Within Northhampton it’s just called part of the city’s bike path system).
On road riding – When you get to the town of Southampton, the Manhan Rail Trail ends and you will have to take local streets. Unfortunately, the signage is not good in this one area, so you will have to plot out a route that generally follows Route 10. It’s about 10 miles to the City of Westfield, where the trail picks up again. But after that, it’s all smooth sailing on bike paths for almost the rest of the time.
Do this ride self-guided with a trip plan and GPS!
Columbia Greenway Rail Trail – https://www.columbiagreenway.org/ And just like magic, tucked behind a Stop & Shop is the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail which takes you from Westfield through beautiful agricultural areas, including tobacco fields! (Who knew they grew tobacco in Massachusetts?) This trail takes you all the way to Southwick where it becomes….
Southwick Rail Trail – http://southwickrailtrail.org/ Another name for the same great trail. This time in Southwick, Massachusetts. Southwick is the last town in Massachusetts. After this you enter Connecticut and start riding on….
The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail – http://fchtrail.org/ Thankfully, the rest of the trail is under the same name with the same maps and website. This is where the trail really begins to shine as you pass through many towns where the trail right-of-way had been interrupted by development, only to be put back together by trail designers who routed the trail through office parks and along trails adjacent to streets. You’ll pass through town after town on this well-maintained trail, with plenty of businesses to stop at. The trail runs generally uninterrupted until you reach Plainville, but at that point the trail is also marked as….
The East Coast Greenway – https://www.greenway.org/ Just north of Plainville, the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail is co-branded as the East Coast Greenway, which is a larger trail system spanning between Florida and Maine. So when the trail gets interrupted in Plainville, you just follow the East Coast Greeenway markers to keep going on your route.
Eventually, you’ll reach the next segment of the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail and you’ll keep riding. As you ride south, you’ll notice that the trail gets very wide, which is great since there are a lot of people on it. The trail continues on, with only one small interruption until you get to New Haven where the trail ends at the Yale Campus. Take your time to enjoy the New Haven Green, or just pedal the short distance to the train station and be on your way. You can get trains to almost anywhere from New Haven’s beautiful Union Station.
Do this ride self-guided with a trip plan and GPS!
Union Station serves Metro-North, Shoreline East, CT Rail and Amtrak trains. Go anywhere!
Farmington Canal Heritage Trail – GPS and Trip Planning now available!
/in Announcements, Bike Hacks, Bike Paths, Connecticut /by Laura WillisIf you are looking for a great 2- or 3-day bike tour getaway that is easy to get to from New York City, the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail corridor is ideal. This trail (or really a network of trails….) goes entirely across Connecticut and extends further north into Massachusetts. You can get to and from the trail easily by trains. The trail also has many, many amenities, including places to stay or camp. It’s got everything a cyclist needs! The only thing else you need is super accurate Farmington Canal Heritage Trail GPS that will show you everything!
Ride through tobacco fields
Most of the route is bike path. But where it is not, quiet back roads signed with bike route signs fill the gaps. Even though the route is signed, having good GPS will really help. Especially since the official name of the route keeps changing!
See our blog page about this trail for a full description of the trail.
Gotham Bicycle Tours is now offering tour planning services for this route, including our trademark GPS which is the best in the industry. Our tour planning packages begin at $250. Contact 917-748-1119 or LUKAS@gothambiketours.com to get started! Tour plans always begin with an initial consultation.
Here’s what you would get with a trip planning package:
Ready to get started? Contact Lukas at 917-748-1119 or LUKAS@gothambiketours.com and he will get you rolling!
Planning a Bike Tour on the Empire State Trail in 2026
/in Bike Hacks, Empire State Trail /by Laura WillisEmpire State Trail Bike Rentals
/in Bike Hacks, Empire State Trail /by Laura WillisThe important factors to consider are trail and road conditions and if the bikes you want to rent are set up for overnight touring. You will also need to think about if the bikes are well maintained and convenient to pick up on your way to your tour. The rental bikes offered by Gotham Bicycle Tours are specifically set up for this.
How to get your Empire State Trail rental bike from Gotham Bicycle Tours
To rent a bike for your Empire State Trail bike tour, visit our bike rental page where you can reserve your bike for the days you want. If a bike in your size is not available online, please contact us since our booking system is set up to be conservative with inventory to avoid double-bookings.
You may also want to contact us before you finalize your booking if you have questions, or if you want to set up a delivery or receive your bike at the train station. We can work this out by phone or email before you pay for the rental.
Because we focus on a small fleet of bikes that we mostly rent to long distance riders, we do not have regular store hours or a traditional storefront. When you are ready to rent, we will pick a time to meet, whether we do this at our storage location in Woodlawn Heights, or if we deliver your bike to your hotel or a train station. You always get good service from us. We want you to have a good time here in New York.
Pricing: $85 per day. After three days, the price defaults to the $250 weekly rate.
Rental panniers are available for $100 per pair if you want to carry belongings with you while you ride. (You can also bring your own panniers and they will work with our bikes).
If you have excess baggage that you do not want to take on your ride, you can store this with us for free during the term of your rental.
We can bring you and/or the bike right to your hotel in Manhattan (or elsewhere).
Delivery fees
We are currently the only bike rental company that delivers bikes in NYC or the Lower Hudson Valley. This is a huge convenience for our clients, but we need to pay staff for the time involved with making the delivery. The delivery (or pick up) pricing is as follows:
The above numbers are all based on travel time. Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn are all very expensive because the TRAFFIC IS SO BAD. However, we will try to make it worth your while. For example, if you are ending your tour at Battery Park in Manhattan, we can come pick up the bikes from you and drive you to your hotel as part of the arrangement for no extra fee. Then you can see for yourself how bad the traffic is.
The Best GPS for the Empire State Trail
/in Bike Hacks, Empire State Trail /by Laura WillisTraveling to New York? Why Not Include a Bicycle Tour?
/in Empire State Trail /by Laura WillisTraveling to New York? Why Not Include a Bicycle Tour?
New York is a top destination for bicycle touring! (or at least it should be!) From the center of Manhattan all the way to Niagara Falls, you will find excellent bike paths, quality roads, stunning scenery, cultural attractions, and (probably) more dining options than any other trail in America.
A Place Like No Other
No other place has anything close to what New York has for a cyclist looking to do a 3 to 10 day ride. New York’s excellent train service allows for itineraries that start and end in different places, allowing you to choose particular segments of the Empire State Trail’s 750 mile route. Getting to the trail is easy to do as part of any visit to New York, whether you are coming here for business or to visit family.
Gotham Bicycle Tours has helped many cyclists include a bike tour as part of a larger visit to New York. We are a small, family-run business and you always work with someone in our family at all times. Any information we give you will always be complete and thorough, and we answer your questions.
Here is what we offer: (click any of the orange text for more info)
Self-guided tour packages that can include:
Guided day tours of the Hudson Valley
NYC Sightseeing Bike Tours
Bike rental
You can contact Lukas at 917-748-1119 or lukas@gothambiketours.com with any direct inquiries.
Biking the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail
/in Bike Paths, Empire State Trail, Hudson Valley, Rail Trails /by Laura WillisDon’t you want to bike on a trail that looks like this?
One of the nicest rail trail experiences you can find in the Hudson Valley is on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. Located in the Mid-Hudson region, the trail follows the Wallkill River between Gardiner and Kingston, as the river flows in a northeast direction towards the Hudson River. This trail is blissfully quiet, with views of farms and the Shawgunk Ridge. There are also many interesting sites to see along the trail, as well as great places to stop and explore. You can spend an entire day enjoying this trail, even though it is only 22 miles long.
A unique trail, focused on preservation and transportation
This Wallkill Valley Rail Trail began as a rustic, unpaved rail trail when it opened in 1993. The trail owes its existence to the Wallkill Valley Land Trust, which purchased the land, and later conveyed it to the municipalities through with conservation easements. The trail was a work in progress for many years. Ultimately, when the Empire State Trail opened in 2020, the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail was included as a major segment and the trail surface was upgraded (it is still unpaved). However, the ownership and maintenance structure of the trail is different than most other Empire State Trail segments, due to the origination of this trail through a land trust. It is one of the few major segments of the Empire State Trail that is not under government jurisdiction.
Make new friends along the trail
However, the context of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail as a land trust effort has resulted in a facility that seamlessly connects the rail trail (which is open to bikes, pedestrians and non-motorized forms of transportation) to other protected lands which offer hiking opportunities. You can literally ride a bike to a hiking trailhead and spend an entire day enjoying this beautiful area.
Click here to see a map
Gardiner and New Paltz
The southern terminus of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is in the Town of Gardiner’s hamlet center. Here you will find parking, businesses and other amenities. The Gardiner trailhead is also very close to Whitecliff Vineyard and Tuthilltown Distillery, both of which you can bike to from the trail.
North of Gardiner, the trail is very quiet as you bike along the Wallkill River with views of the Shawgunk Ridge in the background. The scenery only gets better as you approach the Village of New Paltz, which is a major stop on this trial. New Paltz has many businesses thanks to it being a college town. There is also a fascinating historic district just off the trail on Huguenot Street. This was one of the earliest white people settlements in New York State, settled by French Huguenots. There is a museum as well as many interpretive panels. The best way to ensure you don’t miss anything is to have good GPS.
Ride through the fascinating Huguenot Street historic district
New Paltz is also a major trail junction. It is here that the Empire State Trail joins the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail for the stretch between New Paltz and Kingston. The River to Ridge Trail also intersects with the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail here as well, providing access to the Shawgunk Ridge.
Rosendale
As you head north from New Paltz, the trail crosses the Wallkill River and then you no longer see it. Instead you begin to ride through beautiful farmland with the Shawgunk Ridge in the background. You will pass two fantastic local businesses that are worth a stop. The first is Coppersea Distillery, which has a beautiful farm-like setting. Further north is the Rail Trail Cafe of Rosendale, which is an absolute must if you are passing through on a day that they are open. The food at the cafe is amazing, using ingredients that are grown right next to the trail. They also have live music throughout the day. It is a relaxing, inviting stop that you should not miss!
The Rail Trail Cafe in Rosendale is a super welcoming environment for cyclists. Definitely stop here.
Have a fantastic trailside lunch
Just north of the Rail Trail Cafe, the environment changes again as the trail vaults over the Roundout Creek on a massive trestle. The view from this trestle is one of the most scenic views on the entire Empire State Trail system. And thanks to land preservation efforts there are hiking opportunities on both sides of this fantastic bridge. The Roundout Creek flows below and goes through the center of downtown Rosendale, where you can find stores and services. The Roundout continues on to Kingston, but first it will merge with the Wallkill River just north of Rosendale’s downtown area.
The Rosendale Trestle is a highlight of the ride. Check out the view!
Rosendale was one of the major producers of cement, which was instrumental in the growth of New York City. The evidence of this industry is everywhere in Rosendale. Obviously, the train line (which is now a trail) was used to transport the finished product. But surrounding the trail are caves, kilns, mines and a small mountain composed of limestone which provided the raw materials. The caves are known as “refrigerated caves” because they are always a constant, cool temperature, which make them a pleasant respite to explore on a hot day. (Just don’t go too far down). As you progress north, many of these artifacts of the cement industry have been restored as part of a land development agreement adjacent to the trail. There are also hiking trails that will provide you with a more in-depth experience.
The trail passes many remnants of former industry in the Hudson Valley, like these cement kilns.
Kingston
The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail unceremoniously ends in a parking lot located on the border between the Town of Ulster and the City of Kingston. There isn’t much here, so most cyclists either turn around, or continue the additional 2 miles (on roads) to the center of Kingston, which is the only city in Ulster County. There are many places to stay, eat and explore in Kingston. It is also very bike friendly, with many bike lanes. You can also connect to other trails in Kingston, including the O&W Rail Trail. Kingston is also close to the Ashokan Rail Trail.
Click here to see the official webpage of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail
The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail – A Car-Free Ride Across Connecticut (and part of Massachusetts)
/in Connecticut, Rail Trails /by Laura WillisMost people have no idea, but Connecticut is one of the few states that you can cross end-to-end on a car-free bike path: the he Farmington Canal Heritage Trail
But it gets even better: you can also go an extensive distance in Massachusetts as well, on the same bike path for an even bigger ride.
It still gets better: the bike path connects to well-marked on-road bike route networks in Massachusetts once the trail ends.
It STILL gets better….you can leverage a new commuter rail system to do your epic ride one way.
So what’s the deal? Why don’t you know about this trail yet? Well, I am going to tell you. This trail is awesome! It is so well put together, you’ll think you are in Germany, riding down a scenic radweg, designed by engineers and landscape architects who really care about bikes. Except the Dunkin’ Donuts you just passed will remind you that those dedicated professionals who put this trail together are from Connecticut…and wow – what a great trail.
Do this ride self-guided with a trip plan and GPS!
The main issue with the elusiveness of this trail probably has something to do with the fact that it changes names as it goes through different areas. And, of course, you have to go to different websites to get the maps for the differently named trail sections. So that makes it trickier to put your ride together. But make no mistake: you can ride from Amherst, MA to New Haven, CT with only a small amount of on-road riding. And those on-road sections are shrinking as gaps in the trail continue to get bridged with new trail segments. And where the gaps exist, there’s good signage to keep you moving. And sometimes there’s trail alongside the road where you can ride without dealing with cars. Amazing!
Massachusetts Section
Connecticut Section
Although this trail is called a “canal heritage trail” since it follows the route of a canal that once went from New Haven to Northampton, the canal was mostly obliterated by the railroads that came in later. So the trail is basically a rail-trail, laid down where the tracks used to go. It is all paved, and you go through town after town after town….so plenty of services, places to eat, places to stay, etc. And don’t forget that the trail closely parallels the new CT Rail commuter rail Hartford Line service in between New Haven and Springfield, which accommodates bikes. You can also bring your bike aboard the Amtrak Vermonter if you want to travel further north on the train to Northampton or beyond.
Do this ride self-guided with a trip plan and GPS!
New CT Rail Hartford Line trains parallel this bike trail, offering good bike-friendly transit access
Here’s a breakdown of the the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail (and the segments with other names) from North to South:
Norwottuck Rail Trail – https://www.mass.gov/locations/norwottuck-rail-trail While not directly a part of the Farmington Canal system, this rail trail hooks directly into the trail Northampton. It provides a great extension of the trail between Amherst and downtown Northampton where it hooks directly into….
Manhan Rail Trail – https://manhanrailtrail.org/ This is the name of the trail once you leave Northampton and get into East Hampton. (Within Northhampton it’s just called part of the city’s bike path system).
On road riding – When you get to the town of Southampton, the Manhan Rail Trail ends and you will have to take local streets. Unfortunately, the signage is not good in this one area, so you will have to plot out a route that generally follows Route 10. It’s about 10 miles to the City of Westfield, where the trail picks up again. But after that, it’s all smooth sailing on bike paths for almost the rest of the time.
Do this ride self-guided with a trip plan and GPS!
Columbia Greenway Rail Trail – https://www.columbiagreenway.org/ And just like magic, tucked behind a Stop & Shop is the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail which takes you from Westfield through beautiful agricultural areas, including tobacco fields! (Who knew they grew tobacco in Massachusetts?) This trail takes you all the way to Southwick where it becomes….
Southwick Rail Trail – http://southwickrailtrail.org/ Another name for the same great trail. This time in Southwick, Massachusetts. Southwick is the last town in Massachusetts. After this you enter Connecticut and start riding on….
The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail – http://fchtrail.org/ Thankfully, the rest of the trail is under the same name with the same maps and website. This is where the trail really begins to shine as you pass through many towns where the trail right-of-way had been interrupted by development, only to be put back together by trail designers who routed the trail through office parks and along trails adjacent to streets. You’ll pass through town after town on this well-maintained trail, with plenty of businesses to stop at. The trail runs generally uninterrupted until you reach Plainville, but at that point the trail is also marked as….
The East Coast Greenway – https://www.greenway.org/ Just north of Plainville, the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail is co-branded as the East Coast Greenway, which is a larger trail system spanning between Florida and Maine. So when the trail gets interrupted in Plainville, you just follow the East Coast Greeenway markers to keep going on your route.
Eventually, you’ll reach the next segment of the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail and you’ll keep riding. As you ride south, you’ll notice that the trail gets very wide, which is great since there are a lot of people on it. The trail continues on, with only one small interruption until you get to New Haven where the trail ends at the Yale Campus. Take your time to enjoy the New Haven Green, or just pedal the short distance to the train station and be on your way. You can get trains to almost anywhere from New Haven’s beautiful Union Station.
Do this ride self-guided with a trip plan and GPS!
Union Station serves Metro-North, Shoreline East, CT Rail and Amtrak trains. Go anywhere!
Biking the Zim Smith Trail
/in Bike Paths, Hudson Valley, Rail Trails /by Laura WillisSaratoga County is beautiful, and the City of Saratoga Springs is perhaps the crown jewel. Known as the city of “Health, History and Horses” it’s a great destination for a day, a weekend, or longer. Saratoga Springs also has many bike-friendly roads and access to bike paths. It’s also a great launching point to do bike trips beyond the Capital Region. Click here to find out why.
If you are looking to access Saratoga Springs from the south, there is an excellent bike path called the Zim Smith Trail, which connects to the Empire State trail in Mechanicville, a small city at the southern end of Saratoga County. Mechanicville is a railroad hub, with a massive train yard adjacent to the Hudson River. The Zim Smith Trail uses the alignment of the Rensselaer & Saratoga Railroad, which was chartered in 1832. You can access the trail behind the baseball fields at the end of Elizabeth Street. The trail is all paved and relatively flat (although there is some climbing just north of Mechanicville).
The Ugly Rooster is a popular place to grab breakfast or lunch at the trail entrance in Mechanicville.
For the most part, the trail has nice amenities and is easy for biking. There are many services in Mechanicville, including a much beloved restaurant called the Ugly Rooster, which offers great breakfasts and lunch. You can fuel up before starting, or buy something for later and eat it at a trailside picnic table. The Village of Round Lake is approximately halfway up the trail and also has businesses and picnic tables. Or you can take a break at Shanantaha Creek Park which has sheltered picnic tables.
This picnic table overlooks the rail yard in Mechanicville
The trail ends Ballston Spa, about 5 miles south of Saratoga Springs. You will need to ride along Route 50 to get to Saratoga Springs, but the road is signed as a bike route and there are wide shoulders. There are also many businesses on this road.
Once you have entered the city limits of Saratoga Springs, the city’s bike path system will take you into downtown. But first you will need to pass through Saratoga Spa State Park, which is a fascinating environment with springs located throughout the park. You can taste the water from each spring and decide which one you like best! Our GPS will take you past each spring, so you can try them all.
You can check out (and taste) the springs on the way into downtown
Biking the Albany-Hudson Electric Trail
/in Bike Paths, Empire State Trail, Hudson Valley, Rail Trails /by Laura WillisThe Albany-Hudson Electric Trail is one of New York State’s newest bike paths, having been constructed just before the Empire State Trail officially opened in 2021. It (almost) connects the cities of Albany and Hudson together, but stops just short of each city due to lack of right-of-way. Fortunately, on-street bike routes (with clear signage) will help you find the trail at each end, and biking the 40 miles between these two cities is a lovely experience.
A beautiful ride through history
You may be wondering why the word “electric” appears in the name of this trail. That is because this trail uses the alignment of one of the first electric interurban trolley lines ever constructed. Although the heyday of this operation was relatively short-lived, the corridor has remained in use for electrical transmission lines ever since. Today, this means that this trail receives consistent maintenance as a result of an agreement with the utility company. But you can also learn about the history of electricity, hydropower and industry throughout your ride. This region was shaped by the rushing streams (and waterfalls) that flow along this corridor. A number of mills and factories once lined this route, connected by a trolley system that also provided commuter transportation into Albany and Hudson. The result today is a beautiful ride on a well-maintained trail, punctuated by opportunities to see beautiful waterfalls. You will also travel through several town centers, each with amenities, restaurants, places to stay and more.
Stuyvesant Falls is just off the trail. Our GPS shows you where.
Riding north from Hudson
If you are departing from Hudson and heading north, you will need to pay close attention to the Empire State Trail route signage that will take you on local streets through the City of Hudson into the unincorporated Town of Greenport which surrounds the city. Once in Greenport, the trail starts behind a busy car wash, but quickly heads into quieter surroundings, and soon you are biking past horse farms and wetlands as you head north.
Experience history as you pass through different towns
Hamlet and village centers in Stottville, Kinderhook, Valatie, Nassau, East Schodack and East East Greenbush provide easy access to businesses and accommodations along the route. These places are also full of historic sites or buildings of architectural significance. Kinderhook has the most of these, as it is the birthplace of President Martin Van Buren. Kinderhook has an interesting history as a Dutch settlement (Van Buren learned English as a second language) and there is much to see, including a burial ground for enslaved persons which is right next to the trail. This is a rare find in New York, and it is worth a short stop. People forget that slavery was once a thing here. However, it was very real.
A burial ground for those who died while enslaved is adjacent to the trail in Kinderhook.
A mix of trail and quiet roads
Throughout the trail, there are a number of on-street detours. This is because the original right-of-way for the trolley line has been interrupted due to road construction, bridges that were removed, or encroachments by abutting landowners. In all cases, the detours are signed, but it is helpful to have good GPS in case any signs are missing. However, none of the on-road segments are particularly busy with traffic or have steep hills. Some on-road segments are just as scenic as the trail segments, so it’s a lovely ride throughout.
Some of these on-road segments are even prettier than the trail!
The approach into Albany
As you approach the north end, the trail will end in the Hampton Manor neighborhood of the Town of East Greenbush. From here it is a jumble of roads (all with bike route signs) to get to the Hudson River in the City of Rensselaer. Rensselaer is across the river from downtown Albany, and a bridge (with a sidewalk) connects the two cities. If you are looking for the train station, the Albany-Rensselaer Amtrak station is in Rensselaer, and you will bike directly past it. Otherwise, you can take the bridge over the river and be in downtown Albany within minutes.
Bike Tour Gift Guide
/in Press /by Laura WillisBiking the Harlem Valley Rail Trail
/in Hudson Valley, Press, Rail Trails /by Laura WillisA beautiful trail, easy to get to by train.
The Harlem Valley Rail Trail is one of the most beautiful rail trails in New York State. It’s also one of the easiest to get to since it begins at the Wassaic Metro-North train station parking lot. The Harlem Valley Rail Trail also has lots of amenities along it’s route including farmers markets, restaurants and swimming holes. It’s the perfect getaway for a day ride or an overnight trip, including our overnight bikepacking packages.
A long history.
The Harlem Valley Rail Trail can trace its history back to 1852, when the New York and Harlem Railroad was constructed as far north as Chatham, New York. The New York and Harlem was one of America’s oldest railroads, which was eventually absorbed into the New York Central, and ultimately into Metro-North Railroad as the Harlem Line. However, by the time Metro-North Railroad acquired the line, commuter rail service only went as far north as Dover Plains, with the rest of the line being abandoned.
Fortunately in the late 1990’s, Metro-North undertook an extension of the Harlem Line to Wassaic, NY. As part of the extension, the Harlem Valley Rail Trail was built on top of the abandoned rail alignment north of Wassaic. With this project, the first “intermodal” train to bike hub was created in the New York Metro region.
The trail goes right by the Wassaic Metro-North station.
26 miles with stunning views.
The Harlem Valley Rail Trail is a 26 mile trail between Wassaic and Hillsdale. Full information and maps can be found at the Harlem Valley Rail Trail Association’s website at: http://hvrt.org/.
The trail takes you through a variety of landscapes. Although the areas you pass through are very rural, there are an above average number of great amenities. There are always plenty of places to eat in Millerton, 11 miles north of the trail start in Wassaic. On Saturdays you can even grab lunch at a great farmers market that has all kinds of wonderful food from all of the farms you just rode past on your bike.
Bikepacking adventures
As you push north, you’ll pass Taconic State Park in Copake Falls which has camping, a waterfall hike…and a great lifeguarded swimming hole in an old quarry that is super refreshing on a hot summer day. The camping at this park is excellent, and we can provide you with everything you need for a bike packing adventure. There is also a restaurant and a deli, just outside the park to make it easy.
Just north of the park is one of the most scenic segments of the trail, where you ride through a lush valley. The first time we rode through this spot with our 6-year old son, he asked us “is this God’s world?” because it looked like the pictures he had seen of Heaven!
Biking the Bronx River Pathway
/in Bike Paths, Hudson Valley /by Laura WillisThe Bronx River Pathway is a unique and interesting trail that is big on scenery and fun to ride. It’s also really easy to get to, thanks to frequent train service that parallels the bike path. This makes one-way rides really easy to do.
The Bronx River Pathway is beautiful! Especially in autumn.
A unique experience
What makes this path so special is that it was built as a part of the Bronx River Reservation. The Reservation began as a conservation effort in response to industrial development and pollution, but ultimately the Reservation became Westchester County’s first park. The park is associated with the Bronx River Parkway, the first vehicular parkway ever built in the United States.
Riding the Bronx River Pathway on a bicycle is unlike any other bike path we’ve seen in the United States. It snakes through the tight Bronx River Valley, back and forth over the river on historically contextualized bridges. The route is entwined with the route of the Harlem Line, a railroad that has traveled this corridor since the mid 19th Century. Every station along the line is a unique hub of activity, with restaurants and services. In between the path snakes through the woods, occasionally going up and down short (yet challenging) inclines where you are treated to view after view of a vibrant natural environment that changes with the seasons. It’s never a bad time of year to ride your bike here. It’s also a fantastic place to cross country ski whenever we get a snowfall greater than 6 inches.
The Bronx River Pathway crosses the Bronx River many times. Often there are “waterfalls”. These are dams that once powered mills.
The main part of the Bronx River Pathway is an 11-mile stretch that runs between the Village of Bronxville and Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla. A smaller segment called the Oak Street Loop is located in Mount Vernon. Click here to see a map. (The Bronx River Greenway also goes for several miles further south in the Bronx. The plan is to ultimately connect everything together.)
Rent a bike and try this ride!
While there are few directional signs along the path, the bike path is (mostly) intuitive. The path also closely follows the Metro-North Harlem Line with direct access to seven train stations, making it perfect for getting to the trail and then back home again. There is also free parking at many of these stations on weekends if you want to drive to the trail. Westchester County Parks has also produced a nice map of this trail showing access points and parking.
North of Scarsdale, the Bronx River Valley narrows and you are right along the river.
Biking the trail
Bronxville and Tuckahoe are villages at the southern end of the trail. The pathway goes around two bucolic lakes (both with “waterfalls”) as you pass near each downtown area.
North of Scarsdale Road in Yonkers, the bike path parallels the section of the Bronx River Parkway that is closed on Sundays in the spring and fall for “Bicycle Sundays”. This is a great experience, where you get to bike in the vehicular roadway. You can really take in how scenic this road is on a bike (since it’s usually “white knuckle driving” in a car)
Want to rent a bike and try out Bicycle Sunday? Click here!
The path goes deep into Garth Woods when you get to Scarsdale. This is a lovely section where you are surrounded by mature trees. A ramp from the trail goes directly to Scarsdale’s train station and commercial area.
Between Hartsdale and White Plains the trail surface becomes unpaved and you go through another quiet natural area. This area is excellent for cross country skiing in the winter.
Whatever the season, there’s always reason to enjoy this awesome path. It’s one of the few places for cross country skiing that you can easily get to by train.
So many amenities, so close to a trail.
White Plains is the largest place you will pass through on the pathway. You will begin to notice its skyline as you approach. The train station immediately abuts the pathway and provides express service to Manhattan. White Plains also has a robust downtown with hotels, restaurants and stores. The streets in White Plains are crazy, but there are also several streets with bike lanes that are safe if you know the way. (This is why you want GPS from us). It’s a great place to stay if you are from out of town and looking to explore the area by bike since its so close to such a great bike path!
Part of the experience in White Plains is biking past the Art Deco Westchester County Center. They have restrooms here, but you’ll have to cross the parkway using a pedestrian signal to get to them. You can also park here, but you have to pay a fee.
Rent a bike and try this ride!
As you progress through North White Plains, the landscape opens up more as the valley widens. There is direct access to the North White Plains train station parking lot, which has free parking on weekends.
Ultimately the trail ends at Kensico Dam Plaza, which is a County park located at the base of the imposing Kensico Dam. You can take a pathway (or stairs) to the top of the dam if you want to take a look around. But it’s also nice to just ride around the plaza and see everyone enjoying the park!
Kensico Dam Plaza is a bold visual finish to your ride.
Biking the Bronx River Greenway
/in Bike Paths, Hudson Valley, NYC /by Laura WillisThe Bronx River Greenway is a fascinating and fun place to ride a bike. It follows the Bronx River for (almost) its entire length in the Bronx, taking you through areas that were once heavily industrial, but are now beautiful parks. It’s a great ride that you can do in a couple of hours that packs in a lot of scenery.
The Bronx River Valley has been a corridor for transportation and industry throughout New York’s history. As the only fresh-water river in NYC it played an important role in industry, with many mills set up along its banks, the remnants of which can be seen in the many “waterfalls” you see along the river flowing over dams that date back centuries. When efforts were undertaken in the late 19th Century to begin to address pollution, the Bronx River Parkway was constructed, and lands along each side of the roadway were dedicated as parkland, including what is now the Bronx Zoo and the New York Botanical Gardens. This “green corridor”, set amidst the bustle of city life in the Bronx, is really what makes this bike path special.
Rent a bike and try this ride!
The route
Let’s take a look at the route from south to north. For an overview map of the entire route in both the Bronx and Westchester, click here. For this article we will focus on the Bronx sections. In Westchester County, the route becomes the Bronx River Pathway, and we have another blog article about that segment.
The Bronx River empties into the East River near Clason Point where NYC Ferry services are available.
Clason Point is at the south end. There is a dock here that gets regular NYC Ferry service which is a great way to arrive with your bike if you are coming from Brooklyn, Queens or Manhattan. Parking here is also relatively easy to find. From here you will ride through a series of parks with a little on-street riding in between each. Head directly out on a bike path which takes you through Soundview Park along the tidal flats of the mouth of the Bronx River. Then with a little knowledge of local streets from a map, you can get across the Bruckner Expressway to Concrete Plant Park where you can sometimes see canoes out on the river.
Rent a bike and try this ride!
The route signage north of here is very good, particularly as you head through Starlight Park, which is one the most recent additions to this trail. Much of this was built when NYSDOT decommissioned Sheridan Expressway (now Sheridan Boulevard) which was once the shortest interstate highway in the United States. The trail through here is fantastic, and it is where the Bronx River Alliance is headquartered. This organization has done so much work to make this bike path a reality.
Starlight Park has dramatic views, including a view of subway and Amtrak trains crossing the Bronx River.
North of here, the park land is interrupted as you go through the bustling West Farms neighborhood. This is a major transit hub for subways and buses, so it’s a good starting point if you want to take the subway to get to the ride. You can also try your luck with parking here since there is good highway access at this particular spot. Again a map is helpful getting you through the neighborhood streets. Watch out for cars!
Rent a bike and try this ride!
The good news is that it’s only a half mile of on-street riding and then you are back on a nice bike path starting at 180th Street. At this point you are going to be on a path for a while as you go through Bronx Park, so relax and enjoy. If you are interested in an odd piece of New York history, take a very small detour to the East 180th Street subway station, which used to be a train terminal for the now-defunct New York, Boston and Westchester Railroad. Both the 2 and 5 trains stop here and the 5 continues on along the old NY,B &W route to Dyre Avenue.
The Bronx River Greenway in Shoelace Park is wide and straight.Once you are on this bike path, everything is straightforward and well marked almost until you reach the northern border of NYC. There are also plenty of restrooms and water fountains (usually found at playgrounds) along the way. The only challenging section is where you need to cross Pelham Parkway. This is a busy street that is difficult to cross. So take your time and use the pedestrian signals. Or check out the neighborhood and get a snack or lunch while you are there.
North of Pelham Parkway, you will pass a convenient pedestrian-only entrance to the New York Botanical Gardens as you progress through Shoelace Park. This is a long, unbroken stretch of trail that goes all the way to Woodlawn Heights, which is where NYC ends and Westchester County begins. (We also offer bike rental out of our Woodlawn Heights location if you want to ride this trail!) There are plans to connect the Bronx River Pathway in Westchester to the trail here in Woodlawn Heights. But for now, you will need to rely on an on-road option. You will want GPS from us to do this because the connections are not straightforward.
Concrete Plant Park is an interesting segment of the Bronx River Greenway.
Biking the O&W Rail Trail
/in Bike Paths, Hudson Valley, Rail Trails /by Laura WillisBiking the Union Transportation Trail
/in New Jersey, Rail Trails /by Laura WillisThe Union Transportation trail is a flat rail trail that goes through wide farming areas.
If you are looking to get away for a ride that is rural and beautiful, yet isn’t that far from the NYC or Philadelphia metro areas, you can’t beat the Union Transportation Trail, or UTT for short. This is a 10-mile long rail trail that can easily be combined with quiet back roads to make a nice loop. It’s also a great trail to use if you are biking from High Point to Cape May.
The UTT trail is a gravel/stonedust surface and is generally flat for its entire length. While it is ideal for hybrid bikes and mountain bikes, some road bikers may find the surface to be too loose to ride comfortably. But this trail is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace since there are so many scenic vistas to enjoy.
A typical road crossing on the UTT trail.
The UTT trail generally travels across Upper Freehold Township, located in the western panhandle of Monmouth County. It’s not really practical to take public transit here, although you could potentially ride to this trail from either the Trenton or Hamilton NJ Transit rail stations if you like riding longer distances. The trail goes north to south between Old York Road and Monmouth Road. South of Monmouth Road it is a short ride to the hamlet of New Egypt in Plumsted Township. While there are a variety of stores and services located in New Egypt, the rest of the trail is not near any businesses. The main exception is Cream Ridge Winery which is a wonderful stop for cyclists looking to try local wine.
Make sure you stop at Cream Ridge winery. It’s close to the trail, about halfway.
When you are on the trail, there really aren’t any services or restrooms, except near the south end in New Egypt, so plan accordingly. Also, on hot summer days, be aware that you are very exposed on this trail because you are going through a lot of flat farming areas. So sunscreen and plenty of water are a must for summer rides! Also keep in mind that horses also use this trail, so you will encounter piles of horse manure as you ride. If you are riding and you see someone on a horse, please stop and let the horse pass!
Check out the official webpage for the trail here.
Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway (Jones Beach Bike Path)
/in Bike Paths, Long Island /by Laura WillisIf you do the entire 20-mile ride, you will actually be riding on a series of bike paths with different names that go along the highways that Robert Moses constructed to provide access to Jones Beach State Park as well as Captree State Park and Robert Moses State Park. The western portion of this trail system is the Ellen Ferrant Memorial Bicycle Path which runs in a north-south direction along the Wantagh State Parkway between Cedar Creek County Park and Jones Beach State Park for about 5 miles. Once you arrive at Jones Beach, the trail turns east and you are riding on an older section of the Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway which goes between Jones Beach State Park and Tobay Beach, which is Town beach run by the Town of Oyster Bay. East of Tobay Beach is the newest segment of the trail, which is about 10 miles long and passes through Gilgo Beach before reaching Captree State Park where the trail ends.
Captree State Park is a beautiful spot. You can enjoy a view of the Robert Moses Causeway from a picnic area, but you cannot ride a bike over it. The bike path ends (or starts) here with no bikeable connections to other roadways.
Planning your ride
While the entire bike path system is about 20 miles, any ride you do on this trailway will need to be “out-and-back” unless you have someone picking you up at one of the parking areas along the trail. So to ride the whole path, you will actually need to ride 40 miles if you are parking at one of the trail’s endpoints at either Cedar Creek County Park or Captree State Park because it’s one-way out and one-way back. There is no way to do this trail as a loop. While the Ellen Ferrant Memorial Bicycle Path will get you across the bay on the west end of the path, you would need to ride your bike on the Robert Moses Causeway on the east end of the path to close the loop, and bikes are not allowed on that road. So unfortunately, when the bike path reaches Captree State Park, the trail is a “dead-end” and you have to go back. Or you could make Captree State Park your starting point and ride west before turning around.
The Ellen Ferrant Memorial Bikeway crosses the bay on a series of bridges with beautiful views.
If you want to take public transit to the Jones Beach bike path you can do that too. The Wantagh station for Long Island Railroad is a short distance away from Cedar Creek County Park and its easy to hop on the bike path from there. However, whatever distance you ride in the eastern direction, you’ll need to turn around to get back.
If you are driving to the bike path in a car, you have several choices of where to park, based on how much you want to ride. The only place where you can park for free is Cedar Creek County Park. If you park at either Jones Beach State Park or Captree State Park, you will need to pay the parking fees associated with those State parks, which is usually around $8-10 unless you have an Empire Pass. It is also possible to park in the middle of Jones Beach Island at either Tobay Beach, Gilgo Beach or Cedar Beach. However, these beaches are Town-controlled and have higher parking fees (unless you are a Town resident). For example, parking at Gilgo Beach costs $40 on a Friday, Saturday, Sunday or holiday and $20 on all other days. Residents of the Town of Babylon can park for free. You can also park for free if you arrive later in the day after the payment booth is closed. Parking is also free off-season, but check with the Town before you go to make sure they are not charging.
Go for a swim at one of the many public beaches you will pass. Each beach has bike parking, restroom access and a food concession.
Experiencing the trail
No matter where you ride along the Jones Beach bike path, it is a great experience. You are right along the water for the entire time with great views of the bay between Jones Beach Island and the main part of Long Island. As we mentioned earlier, the trail goes through a number of areas with services and beach access, and helpful signage along the trail informs you about what services are available in which places. There are restrooms and places to eat at Jones Beach, Tobay Beach, Gilgo Beach and Cedar Beach. You can also lock up your bike at any of these locations and go for a swim on the ocean side of the island by using underpasses that go underneath Ocean Parkway. If you are arriving by bicycle you won’t have to pay the beach access fees.
We saw scores of baby bunnies along the trail. But be warned….when we stopped to take this picture, we were almost eaten alive by biting flies!
Wildlife also abounds along the pathway. On the day we were riding there, we saw scores of rabbits along the trail popping in and out of the brush. Unfortunately insects are also a major force in this area as well, so depending on the day, you will want to have bug spray available. For example, just stopping to take a picture of a bunny can invite a swarm of biting flies that will leave welt-like bikes all over any exposed skin. So in these areas you will need to keep moving so that the flies cannot land on you. Or bring bug spray.
Wind is also a major consideration to think about when doing this ride. Since Jones Beach Island is a barrier island, it can receive a lot of wind. So depending on the day, and the fact that the trail requires you to ride “out-and-back”, you will likely have the wind at your back in one direction….and the wind in your face in the other. So definitely think this through before you start riding!
Captree State Park is a great ending for this bike path. You can walk along the shore and see the Fire Island Lighthouse off in the distance.
Also keep in mind that while there are services are available at the different beaches along the route, there is nothing in between those hubs along the bike path but open road. So make sure you know the distances between the various amenities before you set out on your ride.
Biking the Empire State Trail: NYC to Canada
/in Bike Paths, Hudson Valley, NYC, Rail Trails /by Laura WillisBiking the Maybrook Trailway
/in Bike Paths, Hudson Valley, Rail Trails /by Laura WillisThe Maybrook Trailway is the newest rail trail in the lower Hudson Valley and it is also the very eagerly-awaited “missing link” of trail between the former Putnam Division Railroad trailway system (also known as the Putnam Trailway, North County Trailway, South County Trailway and Putnam Greenway depending on where you are) and the trail system centered around the Walkway-Over-the-Hudson (which is comprised of the walkway itself, the Dutchess Rail Trail, the Hudson Valley Rail Trail and the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail). With the construction of the Maybrook Trail, it is now possible to ride continuously on a bike path (with no cars) between New York City and Kingston – almost 100 miles! All of this is part of the new Empire State Trail which goes across the entire state (although not all of the Empire State Trail is bike paths).
The Maybrook Trailway travels between Brewster and Hopewell Junction for 24 miles. There are no services available or restrooms.
The Maybrook Trailway has been a long time coming. Instead of being a “rail trail’ the Maybrook is actually a “rail with trail” traveling alongside the Maybrook Line owned by Metro-North Railroad. The trailway itself is also owned by Metro-North, which makes it one of the only bike paths to our knowledge to be owned and operated by a commuter railroad. The uniqueness of this arrangement also makes for a very unique trail experience, as you travel through very remote areas that are only accessible by this rail line. Far from development and traffic, the Maybrook Trail offers a quiet experience with the sounds of birds and wildlife as a soothing soundtrack in the background. In fact, the Maybrook Trailway is probably one of the most scenic bike paths in our entire region.
Wide open and quiet, with only the sounds of nature surrounding you.
The Maybrook was a mountain railroad, crossing the Appalachian Trail.
However, this sense of solace comes at the expense of convenient services. There are no easily accessible services anywhere along the trail and there are no restrooms along its entire 24 mile length. So you need to go into this ride prepared, or you could consider one of our tour packages where we provide rest stops and services to our riders. There are also no places to sit along this trail except for the stone boulders placed near road crossings. This is a shame since there are so many pretty views that would be nice to sit and enjoy.
As you would expect from a transit agency, the Maybrook Trailway has lots of clear signage. Most of this involves telling you what you can’t do: don’t go on the tracks, stay off of private property, don’t swim in this lake, etc. But there are also lots of great informational panels telling
Although there are no services or restrooms along the Maybrook Trail, when you reach the end in Hopewell Junction, there are restrooms and vending machines.
you about railroad history and the many settlements that you pass. Also, because the Maybrook Trailway goes along train tracks that connect to the Brewster rail yards, you can easily take Metro-North railroad from NYC with your bike to get to the trail. It’s also possible to ride the 44 miles to Poughkeepsie (via the Dutchess Rail Trail) and then take the train back to the city via the Hudson Line while you watch the sun set over the Hudson River. Discount rail fare is available for this excursion with our tour package.
New York Metro Area Bike Paths That Are Great for Cross Country Skiing
/in Bike Hacks, Bike Paths, Hudson Valley, Rail Trails /by Laura WillisIn most cases, to ski any of these trails you will need to have your own cross country skis. While this may seem like a major purchase, XC skis cost much less than downhill skis and they will last you many years. Major retailers that sell them include REI and L.L. Bean. There are also a few local retailers who sell them, including Pawling Cycle & Sport and Rock & Snow, both in the mid-Hudson Valley. Rock & Snow also offers rentals if you aren’t ready to buy yet.
Fahnestock Winter Park
Fahnestock Winter Park is perhaps the best choice for New Yorkers who are looking to try cross country skiing for the first time, or if you don’t have equipment. Every winter, the beach area, campground, and hiking trails in Fahnstock State Park are transformed into a nordic skiing center whenever we get a big snowfall. Groomed trails range from easy to difficult and they have rental skis and lessons available. This is the closest nordic skiing center to NYC, so it can get a little crowded. But it is also super easy to get to since it is right off the Taconic State Parkway. You can also get here by public transit by taking the Metro-North Railroad to Cold Spring and then cabbing it over.
Bronx River Pathway
If you are looking to just get out for a short ski trip, you can’t beat the Bronx River Pathway in Westchester County for convenience. This bike path parallels the Metro-North Harlem Line and the Bronx River Parkway so it’s easy to get to by car or train. Plus it offers the advantage of a one-way trip where you can use the train to get to a starting point and then ski back. The scenery is super nice as you pass through dense woods. The nicest segment for skiing is between Hartsdale and White Plains since it has a fair amount of up-and-down and there are no road crossings. If you are looking for a flatter section, try the area between Bronxville and Scarsdale.
The section of the greenway just south of White Plains is great for cross-country skiing when it snows.
Old Croton Aqueduct
With the leaves off the trees, you get a near constant view of the Hudson River and the Palisades from the Old Croton Aqueduct bike trail through Westchester’s river towns. This trail is consistently flat and, since it parallels the Metro-North Hudson Line, it is also very easy to get to by train or do a one-way ski. You also pass through many town centers, which make it easy to stop for lunch.
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Another regional hot spot for cross country skiers is Rockefeller Preserve in between Pleasantville and Tarrytown in Westchester. This park features a large network of carriage trails that are primarily used by hikers and horseback riders. But after a snowfall it becomes a prime local destination for cross country skiers who ply its ungroomed trails. Probably one of the most scenic parks in our region, this is a great place to check out. You could also get here by train to Tarrytown or Pleasantville in combination with a cab ride.
Ward Pound Ridge
Similar to Rockefeller Preserve, but further north, is Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, which also has a large network of carriage trails that are perfect for cross country skiing. The park isn’t far from the Katonah Metro-North Station, which also has taxi service.
Westchester County Golf Courses
If skiing across open landscapes instead of wooded trails is more appealing to you, all six of Westchester County’s golf courses are open to XC skiing and sledding. These golf courses offer a mix of terrain from steep hills to flat fairways, so there is something for every ability. Plus the parking lots are always plowed and you can even take Bee-Line buses to the Dunwoodie and Saxon Woods Golf Courses. (For Saxon Woods, your best bet is to take the bus to the pool parking area where you can access the parks hiking trails which are also good for skiing).
High Point Cross Country Ski Center
Finally, if you are looking for another large nordic center, but you are willing to travel a little further, High Point Cross Country Ski Center in New Jersey is another place where ski rentals (and even snowmaking and night skiing!) is available.
Resources to find out more
If you want more guidance in figuring out where to go or where the best conditions are, there are a couple of great resources for cross country skiers in our area. Check out Ski the Northeast which is a comprehensive website for skiers from the New York Metro area. Another great resource, particularly if you are interested in updates about ski conditions and other general information, is this fantastic email forum from the New York/North Jersey Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club. It’s a great group to learn more about skiing and ask questions.
Biking the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail
/in Bike Paths, Hudson Valley, NYC /by Laura WillisThe growth of New York City into the place we all know today has always been linked to the ability to bring fresh water to an urban environment surrounded by salt water estuaries. In the early 19th century, this was a major problem as the city began to push north from its original settlement at the southern tip of Manhattan. At that time water was obtained from wells, many of which were contaminated. This lack of clean water was responsible for both yellow fever and cholera epidemics. Water was also needed for fire suppression. By 1833 it was time for the City to begin work on a new fresh water supply. Nine years later the project would be complete, connecting the Croton Reservoir to the growing city. Today, although the aqueduct is no longer in use, most of its infrastructure is still there. Much of the aqueduct is now a State park (or NYC Park), and the land above it is a fascinating trailway that you can ride your bike on with great views of the Hudson River. The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail (OCA) goes across the Highbridge – one of the nicest car-free bridges in our region. The OCA is also a great way to get to the new Mario M. Cuomo Bridge Bike Path.
The OCA trail is unpaved for most of its length. This is one of the wider (and smoother) parts. You should ride this with a hybrid or mountain bike.
While the initial aqueduct was 41 miles long going between the Croton Reservoir in Westchester County and the Croton Distributing Reservoir (now the site of the New York Public Library on 5th Avenue and 42nd Street) the 26-mile portion in Westchester County is the part we will be discussing below. This is the most contiguous part of the trail that offers the best riding. While portions of the OCA trail in New York City are spectacular (like the Highbridge) the route isn’t contiguous or clear.
No matter which portion of the OCA Trail you want to ride, we highly recommend purchasing a map from the Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct for $5. This map will show you the exact route, which can be confusing and hard to follow for the uninitiated. But once you’ve ridden it, you’ll see why it was worth the effort.
The OCA trail can be narrow at times and you will have to follow small signs to stay on the route. We definitely recommend buying a map for $5.
The Westchester portion of the OCA Trail is almost entirely unpaved. You will need to watch out for bumps, roots, rocks, mud and debris. Some portions are wider than others, and the route is almost entirely shaded. Peek through the trees and you’ll see great views of the Hudson River and the Palisades throughout most of your ride. You’ll also see many, many remnants of the aqueduct, like ventilation towers, weirs and more. But make no mistake, the trail can be rough. So do not attempt this trail with a road bike. Hybrid or mountain bikes are a must!
One of the many views you’ll get of the Hudson River or the Palisades while riding the OCA trail.
There are numerous access points to the OCA Trail from its many street crossings. The OCA once flowed through every riverfront village or town in Westchester between Yonkers and Croton-on-Hudson. This means that the trail offers direct access to downtown areas in Hastings-on-Hudson, Dobbs Ferry, Irvington, Tarrytown, Sleepy Hollow and Ossining and it is also very close to downtown Yonkers and downtown Croton-on-Hudson. All of these areas have Metro-North train stations, so you can easily do a ride that starts in one place and ends at another. And that also makes this trail easy to get to from the city.
The OCA Trail goes directly through a number of downtown areas. So you are never far from services or train stations.
If you want to start your ride at the south end, a good place to start is at Glenwood Avenue, particularly if you are taking the train. This trail access point is very close to the Glenwood train station, but beware, you will have to go up a big hill to get to the trail.
Heading north the trail is continuous, but you will need to pay attention to your map or to signs (where available) to get you through tricky spots where the route gets confusing. In most downtown places the trail is shared with roadways or parking lots. Try your best to follow along. In some cases, it may even feel as if you are riding through somebody’s front or back yard. It’s OK – you are still on the trail.
Hey, am I riding through someones yard? Yes you are…but it’s also the trail!
As you approach Tarrytown you will pass by some beautiful properties including Lyndhurst Castle. These were once Hudson River estates for the wealthy. Lyndhurst, in particular, offers tours. However, once you pass Lyndhurst, you will get to your first major interruption in the trail, since it is here that the aqueduct was obliterated by the construction of I-287 and the Tappan Zee Bridge. So you will have to ride along Route 9 for a while until you get to downtown Tarrytown where the OCA trail picks up again. This is a busy road, so it isn’t the greatest for cycling. But you could always ride on the sidewalk if you did not feel safe. It is here that you will also pass the entrance for the Mario M. Cuomo Bridge bike path.
The OCA trail goes past many remnants of the aqueducts infrastructure, such as this weir building.
If you want to ride north of Tarrytown, the OCA trail offers some nice interrupted stretches. But there are also major gaps in the trail that you will need to get around. Once again, having a map will really help you figure this out. The biggest obstacles are Sleepy Hollow High School (which was built right over the aqueduct), a missing piece of trail in Scarborough, and passing through downtown Ossining, where you will need to use local streets (and stairs) to follow along the path. The last major interruption in the trail is where Route 9A was constructed across the aqueduct (another highway obliteration…). Here you will need to skirt around the fence of a training and conference center owned by GE, so again you will need to pay attention to signs (and your map). But the last couple of miles are spectacular, as you move away from the Hudson River into the Croton River gorge. The trail ends at the Croton Dam, which is a site to behold. You can bike across the top of the dam, or go down to the gorge below, which is a County park. If you are taking the train back, just reverse your course back a few miles and you can access the Croton-Harmon Metro-North station relatively easily.