Manhattan Waterfront Greenway

The majority of the greenway is paved and generally flat, offering a smooth ride. However, some sections, particularly north of the George Washington Bridge, become steeper, climbing to about 160 feet. Be aware of occasional pavement bulges from tree roots in certain stretches. The East River sections may also involve detours onto local streets due to ongoing construction.

While much of the greenway is flat and paved, its suitability for beginners varies. The Hudson River Greenway section is generally good, but the trail is extremely popular and can be very crowded, especially on weekends and during summer. This heavy traffic can make navigation challenging. Some East River sections are not yet fully constructed and may require sharing roads with cars and trucks, which is less ideal for beginners.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with milder temperatures and potentially fewer crowds than peak summer. Summer weekends can be very busy, making navigation challenging due to heavy use by cyclists, walkers, and runners. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential icy patches.

The greenway offers breathtaking views of iconic landmarks and the city skyline. Along the Hudson River Greenway, you'll see the Hudson River, Lower Manhattan, Midtown, Jersey City, and the George Washington Bridge. Notable sights include Battery Park, Hudson River Park, Riverside Park, and the Chelsea Piers, as well as views of the World Trade Center. The East River Greenway provides impressive views of the skyline and bridges.

The Manhattan Waterfront Greenway is a multi-use path shared by pedestrians and cyclists. Dogs are generally permitted on a leash, following New York City park rules. Always ensure your dog is under control and clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and cycle the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway. It is a public path accessible to everyone.

As an urban trail, parking can be challenging and expensive in Manhattan. Public transportation is often the most convenient way to access the greenway. Numerous subway and bus lines have stops near various points along the route, allowing you to start and end your ride at different locations. Consider using a bike rental service if you don't have your own bike.

Once fully completed, the greenway will form a continuous 32-mile loop around the entire island of Manhattan. Currently, some sections, particularly on the East River side, are still under development or require detours onto local streets. The city is making substantial investments to 'close the loop' and enhance the continuous path.

Key highlights along the route include the Hudson River Greenway, the Hudson River Greenway Overpass, and the Fort Washington Park Greenway & View of George Washington Bridge. You can also enjoy the Riverside Drive – View of the Hudson River and pass through a section of Central Park East Drive.

The Manhattan Waterfront Greenway forms the southernmost portion of the statewide Empire State Trail. It also integrates with other paths like the Manhattan West Side Bike Path, the Hudson Valley Greenway Trail (The Battery, NYC to Inwood), and sections of the 9-11 Trail (New York Manhattan) and the East Coast Greenway (NY).

The Hudson River Greenway is one of the most heavily used bikeways in the United States, especially on weekends. To potentially avoid the densest crowds, consider cycling during weekday mornings or early evenings. The East River sections, while still under development in parts, might offer a different experience, though some require navigating city streets.