Although this trail seems to perpetually be under construction of one form or another, it falls into the category of “a trail with great potential.” It is one of the many wonderful bike routes in Manhattan that is theoretically car-free. Unfortunately, all of the constant detours distract from this laudable goal of being a safe walking and biking path in the heart of the city.
I would rate this as being a great trail-running route, a very good walking path, a pretty darned good dog-walking trail and a someday-fairly-soon-to-be-a-good-bicycle path. Currently, you will discover many not-so-safe or convenient detours that are not very well marked once you have been lured away from the designated route.
Let’s ignore those downsides for a moment and try to imagine this greenway when it is finally completed and construction-free. At that time, it will be a great way to get around the east side of Manhattan. It has wonderful access to numerous Citi Bike docking stations, many parks, tons of river view benches and a fair amount of food carts and restaurants. The trail is accessible year-round and is especially well-suited to spring, summer and fall usage.
If you are riding the trail in a southerly direction, you will seamlessly merge right into the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway once you get down to the Staten Island Ferry docking area. Once you access that trail, you can continue riding for another 13.5 traffic-free miles all the way to Inwood Park on the far northern end of Manhattan. One of the great aspects of bicycling on Manhattan bike trails is the easy access to subway stations and bus routes to take you back to where you started. If you find yourself without a bike while in the big city, no worries. You have abundant access to numerous bike rental companies and, best of all, a nearly unlimited supply of Manhattan Citi Bikes at your disposal.
Photos
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- map of East River Greenway
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- Dog's Eye View of East River Greenway
Suggested Lodging
Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Booking.comSuggested Dining
Fraunces Dining
Cowgirl Seahorse
numerous food trucks and food carts
Suggested Bike Rental / Repair
Citi Bike
