With miles of greenways and bike lanes, as well as dedicated bike paths in parks, New York City is perfect for a cycling day trip. Even though Manhattan isn’t exactly known as a premier destination for mountain bike trips, you can still blaze trails in and around the area. We’ve curated a collection of local routes, so browse these options for guidance on where to ride in Manhattan.
If you’re looking for mountain bike tours, our guided excursions in the Big Apple are a great way to discover the city. They combine easy-paced cycling with iconic destinations that should be on everyone’s to-do list. Whether you’re a seasoned mountain biker or you’re just discovering this new activity, we’ll find an option for you.
Places to Ride Mountain Bikes on Manhattan
Who knew that Manhattan has so many picturesque places to ride mountain bikes? There are several trails that provide miles of singletrack, thrills, and enjoyment for mountain bikers of all skill levels. At the same time, they remain respectful of the parks’ natural environment and other park users.
Luckily for you, you don’t have to travel too far from the Fancy Apple rental to access most of these locations. Just grab a bike and get pedaling or take a quick subway ride.
Central Park
Central Park is one of the most beloved places to bike in NYC. There are three long-distance routes to choose from – 6.1 miles, 5.2 miles, and 1.7 miles. Those are mostly suited for road bikes, but you can still catch some iconic destinations on your way to more off-road trails. We also have a special guide on great places to bike in Central Park.
Central Park does offer bridle paths, but, unfortunately, bikes are not allowed on the track at any time. You can still catch some greenery and beautiful wildlife, but make sure to stay on the dedicated track.
Highbridge Park
This Inwood/Washington Heights location features everything you could possibly want. There are well-groomed, smooth, and wide lanes for beginners, fast and twisty ones for intermediate bikers, and trails for those with advanced skills. The overall length is 3 miles of interconnecting loop trails.
Highbridge also offers a free-ride trail, designed by pro rider Jim Dellavalle and the Brooklyn Bike Riders as well as a dirt jump park. For more detailed information on the Highbridge Park MTB trials, check out this review by 57hours.
Roosevelt Island
Thanks to the architects who mimicked the natural forest that once covered the island, bikers can enjoy the landscape that developed naturally over thousands of years. There are trails through swampy bottomlands and wooded uplands that will not take long to explore.
You can choose a 1.5-mile loop that is part of pea gravel and part boardwalk, which is the longest route in this area. Alternatively, you can bike through a 1/3-mile trail through the heart of the island or 1/3 trail that traverses the length of the island.
Hudson River Greenway
This bike path that follows the island’s waterfront is certainly well-worn. But it doesn’t mean that it isn’t worth exploring – it gives you a view of a place that walking or driving a car can’t. The Greenway technically spans the entire Hudson River, so you can jump on anywhere along the route.
Similar to Central Park, this trail isn’t particularly known for mountain biking. But it doesn’t take away from the beauty of this 32-mile trek.
Battery Park City
Battery Park City has been named one of the “Top 5 NYC Neighborhoods for Bikers“. So, you can be sure that it will be a great addition to your biking route. The list remarks on the area’s 6.44 miles of bike lanes that are bordered by lush gardens of perennials, shrubs, and woody plants.
The local bike paths are a departure from the asphalt, so you’ll be seeing the opposite of concrete jungles that Manhattan is known for.
Randall’s Island
Randall’s Island is your gateway to one of the most underutilized biking havens in Manhattan. So, you’re not too fond of recreational bikers descending on Central Park, you can head over here. It features a series of interconnected loops with numerous recreational facilities along the way. The park offers a quiet setting and views of the skyline. However, bear in mind that off-road biking isn’t allowed here.
Chelsea Piers
Chelsea Piers is less about nature and suits urban lovers who want to add other activities to their trip. Particularly, the area features numerous sports and entertainment venues, such as golf, field sports, ice skating, fitness, and bowling. Still, nature lovers will enjoy the flowers and trees in the natural spaces along the bike trail.
Mountain Biking NYC: Some Advice for Mountain Bike Activities
Everyone does mountain bike activities for different reasons. But no matter what your ultimate goals are, you have to start with the basics. Even experienced mountain bikers sometimes need to be reminded of some key rules. For your safety and overall enjoyment, keep this advice in mind:
- Start small. Before you hit technical trails, try something short with minimal elevation gain/loss, such as the Rock Garden.
- Don’t stay in the saddle too much. You’re much more effective on a mountain bike when your legs act as built-in shock absorbers.
- Shift your weight. Keep your center of gravity over the rear wheel to maintain traction and avoid going over the bars, especially in more extreme mountain bike adventures.
- Go easy on the brakes. Adjust your speed before the tricky parts of the trail, but remember that these brakes are very powerful, and you don’t want to pull them too aggressively.
- Look where you want to go. If you’re going on a guided mountain bike, your instructor will pick the optimal lanes. But you should still try to look as far down the trail as possible.
- Keep a good pedaling form. Move the ball of your foot just in front of the pedal axle to avoid straining your muscles.
- Dress appropriately. Check the weather in advance and make sure your clothes can sustain mountain biking in NYC, different times of day, and ride durations.
As long as you apply these recommendations in practice, you will enjoy all the benefits of mountain biking:
- Building, strengthening and toning your muscles
- Maintaining a healthy heart
- Relieving stress
- Adding adventure into your life
Bonus Section: Mountain Biking in other New York City boroughs
There are so many trails and so little time. For those looking for more spots for mountain biking in New York, we have some additional suggestions. Check out any of the following options and let us know which one you like the most.
Queensbridge Park
Now that no-parking rules are enforced more intensely, this celebrated Long Island park is perfect for recreational bikers. The bike lane network in and around the area is one of the most impressive in the city. Especially if you head straight to the waterfront, you’ll be almost entirely free from motor vehicle traffic. Park detours are particularly worth checking out.
Cunningham Park
Cunningham Park has something to offer for everybody –riders ranging from absolute beginners to skilled bikers in search of a challenge. There are also opportunities for speed-ups and slow-downs, and short and sharp power climbs. Plus, within the park are also three dirt jump mini-parks for those who want a free-ride experience.
City and Mountain Bikes: The Best Rental Options
If you’re looking for equipment, a decent city or mountain bike can be found at the Fancy Apple rental shop. Our high-quality bikes are tuned and ready to hit the trails whenever you’re ready. The shop is centrally located so you can rent a bike and start your journey right from our storefront.
For different types of terrain, there’s a bike designed to handle it. In case you’re not sure which bike to go for, our specialists will help you pick the right option for your bike ride. Come to our store, and you’ll find the widest selection for affordable prices. If you’re looking for something lightweight and responsive on smooth pavement, we offer city bikes. If you need a bike with thick tires and strong wheels that resist damage from impact, we have those as well.
To top it off, our local guides offer bike tours that cover major landmarks as well as some lesser-known spots. Book one today at Fancy Apple, and you’ll be guaranteed a ride that will transform the way you see Manhattan.