Pedal Your Way Through Paradise: A Guide to Long Island's Most Scenic Bike Trails
Long Island, New York, offers an abundance of picturesque bike trails that showcase the region's stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or a casual rider looking for a leisurely ride, these scenic bike trails provide a unique and enjoyable way to explore Long Island's rich history, culture, and natural wonders.
From the tranquil shores of the South Shore to the lush woodlands of the North Shore, there's a bike trail for everyone to enjoy.
Key Takeaways
Discover the natural beauty and diverse landscapes of Long Island by bike.
Experience a variety of terrains, from picturesque beachfronts to serene woodlands.
Explore the cultural and historical sites along Long Island's scenic bike trails.
Bethpage Bikeway: A Journey Through History
The Bethpage Bikeway is a 13.5-mile trail stretching from Massapequa Park to Woodbury, passing through the beautiful Bethpage State Park. This paved path offers a smooth ride for cyclists, with plenty of opportunities to take in the natural beauty and historic sites, such as the Old Bethpage Village Restoration.
Jones Beach Boardwalk: A Beachside Escape
Look no further than the Jones Beach Boardwalk for a relaxing and picturesque ride along the ocean. This 4-mile bike path runs parallel to the beach, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Jones Beach Water Tower. With plenty of opportunities to stop for a swim or enjoy the park's amenities, the Jones Beach Boardwalk is ideal for a leisurely ride on a sunny day.
Long Beach Boardwalk: A Coastal Adventure
The Long Beach Boardwalk, located on Long Island's South Shore, is a 2.2-mile wooden boardwalk that provides a scenic and enjoyable ride along the oceanfront. With breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, this popular bike trail offers a perfect way to enjoy the coastal scenery, fresh sea air, and vibrant atmosphere of Long Beach.
Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve: A Natural Wonderland
Explore the beauty of Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve on a bike ride through this 1,520-acre park located in Lloyd Harbor. The park offers a variety of trails suitable for both mountain and road biking, with diverse landscapes including woodlands, meadows, and salt marshes. Enjoy the park's rich history and stunning waterfront views as you pedal through this picturesque preserve.
Cedar Creek Park to Jones Beach Bikeway: A South Shore Odyssey
The Cedar Creek Park to Jones Beach Bikeway is a 5.4-mile paved path that runs from Seaford to Jones Beach State Park. This popular trail traverses through woodlands, wetlands, and parks, offering a pleasant ride with plenty of scenic stops along the way. The trail ends at the Jones Beach Boardwalk, providing riders with access to the beach and other park amenities.
Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway: A North Shore Gem
The Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway is a 3.4-mile paved trail connecting the Setauket and Port Jefferson Station communities on Long Island's North Shore. This scenic route winds through forests, residential neighborhoods, and alongside picturesque ponds, providing a peaceful and enjoyable ride. The trail is perfect for riders of all skill levels and offers a variety of sights, including the historical landmark of the Setauket Grist Mill.
Vanderbilt Motor Parkway: A Path Through History
The Vanderbilt Motor Parkway, or the Long Island Motor Parkway, is a historic 5-mile trail running through Nassau County. Originally built as a private road for racing automobiles in the early 1900s, the parkway has since been converted into a multi-use path for cyclists and pedestrians. Enjoy a leisurely ride through history as you pedal along this well-maintained trail.
Hither Hills State Park: A Montauk Adventure
Located in Montauk, Hither Hills State Park offers a 3-mile loop trail that takes riders through diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, woodlands, and picturesque ocean views. This scenic trail is perfect for mountain biking enthusiasts and offers a challenging yet rewarding ride through the park's stunning natural beauty.
Robert Moses State Park: A Barrier Island Getaway
Discover the beauty of Robert Moses State Park on a bike ride along the park's scenic 4-mile path. This paved trail takes riders through a variety of landscapes, including beaches, dunes, and marshes, and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Great South Bay. Enjoy a peaceful ride through this barrier island park and take in the sights and sounds of the natural surroundings.
East Bay Bike Path: A Bayside Ride
The East Bay Bike Path is a 2-mile trail that runs along the eastern shoreline of the Great South Bay in the town of Islip. This paved path offers a smooth and enjoyable ride, with picturesque views of the bay and an abundance of wildlife. The East Bay Bike Path is a delightful addition to any Long Island biking adventure, perfect for a leisurely ride or a family outing.
Long Island's scenic bike trails offer riders an unparalleled opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich history. From the tranquil shores of the South Shore to the lush woodlands of the North Shore, there's a bike trail for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're an experienced cyclist seeking a challenging ride or a casual rider looking for a leisurely excursion, this guide to Long Island's most scenic bike trails provides a unique and enjoyable way to experience all that Long Island has to offer. So, grab your helmet and hop on your bike for a pedal-powered adventure through Long Island's picturesque paradise.
