Backyard Playgrounds
New York
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| Urban Jungle Writ Large: Downtown Manhattan, where adventurous play isn’t only for Sex and the City urbanites (PhotoDisc) |
>>WITHIN THE LIMITS: New York City’s Greenway System
Why We Love It:
Bike, jog, stroll, skate, or walk your way through all five of New York City’s boroughs on this extensive network of trails. The trails present varied terrain for novices and experts alike, from urban parklands to wilder forests.
Don’t Miss:
Take the Greenway trails out to Fort Tilden’s beach and dunes to watch the sunset and then gaze at the moon.
Getting There:
The Greenway trails are accessible from all five of the city’s boroughs, and plans are underway to expand the network to 350 miles of trails.
The Fine Print:
Use of the Greenway system is free, but riders who do not stay on designated paths are fined. For more information visit www.nycgovparks.org or call 212.639.9675.
Additional Information:
Check out GORP.com’s Guide to Biking NYC’s Greenways
>>NEARBY: Bear Mountain State Park
Why We Love It:
Bear Mountain’s 5,067 acres of wooded lands in the rugged mountains around the Hudson River make a great location for visitors to hike, fish, and camp. If you’re tired of the urban jungle, then deposit your weary urban-warrior self in this garden of tranquility.
Don’t Miss:
Come winter, the park boasts some of the best Nordic skiing within a skinny-ski glide of New York City.
Getting There:
Just 48 miles north of Gotham, the park is accessible via the Palisades Parkway and Route 9 W.
The Fine Print:
Bear Mountain is open year-round and the park charges a small parking fee in association with park-held events. For more information visit: http://nysparks.state.ny.us or call 845.786.2701.
Additional Information:
Check out GORP.com’s Guide to Bear Mountain State Park
