6 Bike Rides to Celebrate National Bike Month

May is National Bike Month, sponsored by the League of American Bicyclists and celebrated in communities from coast to coast. Whether you bike to work or school, ride to save money or time, pump those pedals to preserve your health or the environment, or simply to explore your community, National Bike Month is an opportunity to celebrate the unique power of the bicycle and the many reasons we ride.

Here are some great trails that are worth checking out. Enjoy the ride!

1. Central Park

It’s not just for tourists! With its scenic views and hilly terrain, the Central Park Drives provide cyclists with a relaxing ride or a challenging workout. Experts are available for guided tours of landmarks and attractions.

2. Brooklyn Bridge Park

Explore the rich ecology, vibrant views and expansive waterfront piers with a leisurely ride through Brooklyn Bridge Park. A scenic and bike-friendly waterfront greenway traverses the park from Pier 1 to Pier 6 and there are five Citi Bike stations in close proximity.

3. Prospect Park

Get in touch with nature while pedaling the pavement on Prospect Park’s 3.35 mile bicycle loop. Prospect Park is car-free during the weekend and has a dedicated bike lane at all times. Bike rentals are available at the LeFrak Center at Lakeside and the loop is friendly to all ages and levels. Learn more

4. Governors Island

Bike paths include tree-lined trails past grandiose mansions and old army barracks, in addition to dazzling views of Lower Manhattan and the NY Harbor. Both the East River Ferry and free Governors Island ferries accommodate bikes, but you can also rent single and tandem bikes from kiosks on the island.

5. Hudson River Park

What better way to travel across the West Side? This bike path runs the entire length of Hudson River Park from Battery Place at the southern tip of Manhattan to W59th St. where it connects with Riverside Park South. The bike path is dedicated to bicycles, skateboards and roller bladers.

6. Hudson Valley

Step back in history with a ride on the Roosevelt Farm Lane Trail, a spectacular trail located in the Hudson Valley. This restored carriage lane connecting historic sites and local parks is only one of the majestic trails preserved by Scenic Hudson. Scenic Hudson has been a crusader for the Hudson Valley since 1963, protecting over 38,000 acres of land and paving promenades and carriage roads that cyclists enjoy. Explore some of the Hudson Valley’s most inspiring historic trails here: http://www.scenichudson.org/park-activities/biking.

For bike maps of all 5 boroughs, visit: http://www.nycbikemaps.com/

Take a photo of your bike ride (when you’re on a break of course) and tweet at us @Capalino.

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