Nassau County

There are two trails at Bethpage State Park—a mountain biking trail and paved trail for walkers and bikers to share. Photo courtesy of Long Island Bicycle Tours

Bethpage State Park  — Farmingdale
There are actually two bike trails here. The mountain bike trail is four miles long, and the paved trail for runners and hikers is about nine miles long. Part of the larger trail goes through the tranquil Massapequa Preserve, shown above.

Eisenhower Park — East Meadow
With so much to do at Eisenhower Park, this is a great place to bring kids for more than just biking. There is a lake, golf course, baseball fields, and playgrounds. The paved jogging and bike path winds around the area and is suitable for all skill levels.

RELATED: 15 Long Island state parks worth a visit 

The Jones Beach Bike Path spans more than four miles into the state park, where bikes are permitted on the boardwalk. Photo courtesy of Long Island Bicycle Tours

Jones Beach Bike Path — Wantagh
This is one of the most well-known bike trails on Long Island. In-line skaters, joggers, and bikers all use the paved trail, which is about 4 1/2 miles and runs parallel to the Wantagh State Parkway. The scenery is beautiful and it never crosses a road. Once inside the state park, bikes are permitted on the boardwalk, but keep an eye out for pedestrians. 

Valley Steam State Park — Valley Stream
This two-mile flat, paved loop provides an easy ride for the whole family. For those looking to extend the ride, the state park trail meets up with Hendrickson Park’s trail for an additional two miles of biking.

Suffolk County

Belmont Lake State Park — West Babylon
This trail winds around Belmont Lake in what used to be the estate of August Belmont, who raised thoroughbred horses on the property. Enjoy the scenery on this three-mile, mixed-terrain loop. Take some time on the playground or continue with a pedal boat rental.

Cathedral Pines County Park — Middle Island
Cathedral Pines is situated along Carmans River, making this bike trail rather picturesque. This is a mountain bike trail, so be prepared for dirt paths, some bumps, and slight inclines. However, the park offers trails easy enough for beginner to advanced mountain bikers.

Connetquot River State Park Preserve — Oakdale
This trail parallels Sunrise Highway with a connection into the state park. Its 3,400 acres are a haven for fish, birds, rare plants, and more.

Heckscher State Park — East Islip
Four miles of trails and views of Fire Island across Great South Bay attract riders to this South Shore state park. Visitors often encounter deer, seabirds, and other wildlife.

Sunken Meadow State Park — Kings Park
At just over three miles, this trail takes you through wooded areas, over a creek, and along the beach. Some hilly areas might require you to walk your bike, but you are rewarded with sweeping views of Long Island Sound. This trail is paved and connects to the boardwalk near the end.

Trail View State Park — Huntington
This North Shore path connects Cold Spring Harbor State Park to Bethpage State Park, where you can ride the Greenbelt Trail. Map out your route before heading out as trails split off and lead to different locations. The Trail View path is FREE, and is accessible from many roads, including Jericho Turnpike in Woodbury.

The East End

Hither Hills State Park — Montauk
Another mountain biking trail, Hither Hills combines advanced courses with paths suitable for novice riders. Be sure to pick up a trail map at the campground or Montauk Chamber of Commerce as the trails are not marked. Be prepared for some puddles in low spots, bumps, and some overgrowth across the path. As with any trek through the woods, a first aid kit is good to have. 

Riverfront Trail — Riverhead
At a half-mile long, this scenic boardwalk trail follows the Peconic River past the Long Island Aquarium and into downtown Riverhead.

Wildwood State Park — Wading River
With a total of 12 miles, this trail is a good option for families with older kids, or younger ones if you have a trailer. Expect some hilly terrain with a mix of paved and unpaved areas. There are plenty of rest stops along the way to help little legs recover from the hill climbs as well as offering spots to stop for lunch.

This post, originally published in 2013, was updated in April 2018.