We first learned about this trip through our friends at 718 Cyclery – check them out for an ongoing series of micro-tours from NYC. We’ll be heading out on a group field trip this August – join us!
If you’re looking for a ride that’s perfect for weekend warriors and first time bikepackers to get a taste of backpacking by bike – this route is it!
What to pack for your first bike tour
Depending on where you start in Manhattan the route is 42-47 miles each way, with the option to ride to the park and then take the train home the next day.
Make your way from your apartment to the Hudson River Greenway (aka West Side Highway) and start riding North to the beautiful Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx.
Van Cortlandt is a great spot to take a last minute bathroom break and adjust your gear. From there, head north out of Van Cortlandt to Yonkers to ride the well paved North County and South County Rail Trail.
This part of the ride is the highlight as you’ll enjoy a green tunnel and smooth pavement. Follow this one trail into Westchester where you’ll need to use a few surface roads to get to the actual park.
Once you’re settled in for the night, take a short walk to Croton Point, which reaches out into the Hudson River and provides beautiful views and quiet beaches to enjoy.
The next morning, you can retrace your steps and ride back to the city or head over to Metro-North and take the train to Grand Central.
