Blue Mountain Reservation. Photo by Bill Winters
Taking to two wheels has many known physical and mental health benefits. Whether you are striving to reach a fitness goal or looking for ways to reduce stress and anxiety, cycling is a great way to improve your well-being while the gyms are under lockdown.
Looking for a trail for new bikers? Head to Valhalla. Want an intense burst of energy? Peekskill is the place for you. Need a bonding day with the family? Tarrytown and Croton offer scenic routes and off-roading adventures. And if you’re an expert craving a challenge, Yonkers is the spot.
Check out these five trails for the best summertime bike ride for you:
Blue Mountain Reservation
Blue Mountain’s bike trails are praised for being one of the best trail systems in the Hudson Valley. With seven miles of different bike trails, you have a choice between beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails. Whatever trail you choose, you will get in a full body workout, as even the beginner trails include steep portions sure to give you the burst of energy you’ve been lacking post-quarantine.
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Kensico Dam Plaza
A great trail for inexperienced bikers, Kensico Dam Plaza is the perfect place for those who are just looking to get out and about. The plaza also features picnic tables for a bite to eat and a vast lawn to sit and enjoy the day.Â
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Tarrytown Lakes Extension
Popular with families, the Tarrytown Lakes extension is just about a mile long, which is perfect for a casual outing. This scenic escape sees both sides of the Tarrytown lakes while connecting riders to the village of Tarrytown, the Old Croton Aqueduct, and the Riverwalk.
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Old Croton Aqueduct
If you are looking for a more unique bike ride experience, Old Croton Aqueduct is the spot for you. An off-roading adventure, the diverse trail features both paved and unpaved terrain with paths in both wooded areas as well as suburban. This trail can be as challenging or smooth as you make it- depending on which path you dare to take.
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Sprain Ridge Mountain
Sprain Ridge Mountain bike trails are very well-suited for more advanced riders. The expert trails are riddled with steep drops, stream crossings, and plenty of elevation and terrain changes. With all of this action, you are sure to work up an appetite, so pack some good eats and take advantage of the picnic grounds.
