The best cycling routes around East Setauket
4.4
(12)
136
riders
18
rides
Touring cycling routes around East Setauket traverse a diverse landscape featuring old-growth forests, woodlands, and expansive meadows. The region is characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and tidal creeks, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Routes often wind through areas with pine-oak forests and mountain laurel, showcasing a unique glacial moraine landscape. This blend of natural environments offers a compelling setting for exploring on two wheels.
Best touring cycling routes around East Setauket
- The most popular touring cycling route is Bike loop from Port Jefferson, a 23.3 miles (37.5 km) trail that takes 2 hours 8 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers a varied ride through coastal areas and local communities.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Old Field Point Light – Cordwood Park loop from Port Jefferson, a moderate 27.1 miles (43.6 km) path. This route provides scenic views of the coastline and passes through diverse natural settings.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Bike loop from Setauket, a 7.3 miles (11.8 km) trail leading through local neighborhoods and green spaces, often completed in about 45 minutes.
- Touring cycling around East Setauket is defined by its blend of coastal paths, rolling hills, and dense woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy bike trails to more challenging routes.
- The routes in East Setauket are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 145 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore East Setauket's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 9, 2026
4.5
(4)
37
riders
37.5km
02:09
110m
110m
The Bike loop from Port Jefferson offers a diverse touring cycling experience, blending the hilly, winding sections of the Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway with the largely flat and easy North Shore Rail Trail. You'll pedal through old-growth forests, meadows, and farmland, catching glimpses of Port Jefferson Harbor and the Long Island Sound. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and bunnies along the way, making for a scenic and engaging ride.
This moderate 23.3-mile (37.5 km) route, with 377 feet (115 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 8 minutes to complete. Both trails are entirely paved, ensuring a smooth journey, though the Setauket Greenway's hills might make an e-bike a comfortable choice for some. The route connects to various local towns, providing opportunities for breaks and refreshments.
This loop is a fantastic example of Suffolk County's efforts to create connected cycling networks, repurposing abandoned railroad lines into safe, car-free paths. The North Shore Rail Trail, a significant "rails-to-trails" project, offers a wide, accessible route, while the Setauket Greenway enhances safety with flashing lights at crossings. It's a great way to explore Long Island's North Shore without sharing major roadways.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
43.6km
02:43
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.0
(2)
14
riders
11.8km
00:46
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
8.11km
00:45
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
7.81km
00:44
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Turn off the GPS and go get lost, turn it on when you want to go home, that's the best experience.
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The Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail, or Setauket Greenway, is a 3-mile paved path on Long Island’s north shore. It connects scenic old-growth forests, farmland, meadows, business districts, Stony Brook University, and county parks. The trail features a mix of wooded sections and occasional sunny spots, with several road crossings, and some short sections that pass through utility corridors and sand pits.
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Avalon Nature Preserve, in Head of the Harbor, captivates with its diverse ecosystems. Spanning 216 acres, it features woodlands, wetlands, and serene trails, providing a peaceful haven for nature enthusiasts.
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Glacier Ridge Preserve is a 240-acre park with over 12 miles of biking trails in a big patch of forest.
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Gorgeous views all around, very quiet and secluded. It'd be a lovely spot to have lunch and read a book. The roads there are very hilly and the town it's in is quite wooded and forest-y; it doesn't feel like the usual strip-mall suburbs of Long Island.
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The mountain bike trails at Laurel Ridge are great for a lung and leg killing workout. You will find steep climbs with a nice mix of trail features like thin skinnies, rocks and logs to ride over.
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The lighthouse sits on the northern tip of Old Field. It was first built in 1823, then rebuilt in 1868. The U.S. Coast Guard took it during WWII but gave it back to the Old Field community afterwards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in East Setauket?
East Setauket offers a diverse selection of over 20 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, ranging from easy, family-friendly rides to more challenging excursions through varied terrain.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling in East Setauket?
Cycling in East Setauket provides a rich tapestry of natural beauty. You'll traverse old-growth forests, woodlands featuring rhododendrons, expansive meadows, and areas with pine-oak forests and mountain laurel. Many routes also offer views of tidal creeks, rolling hills, valleys, and serene ponds, showcasing the region's unique glacial moraine landscape.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, East Setauket has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Bike loop from Setauket is an easy 7.3-mile (11.8 km) trail that takes about 45 minutes, leading through local neighborhoods and green spaces. Another option is the Laurel Ridge Trails loop from East Setauket, which is an easy 4.3-mile (6.9 km) ride.
What are some popular longer touring cycling routes in the area?
For those seeking a longer ride, the Bike loop from Port Jefferson is a popular moderate route covering 23.3 miles (37.5 km) and typically takes around 2 hours and 8 minutes. It offers a varied ride through coastal areas and local communities. Another excellent choice is the Old Field Point Light – Cordwood Park loop from Port Jefferson, a moderate 27.1-mile (43.6 km) path with scenic coastal views.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge, the Cordwood Park – Avalon Nature Preserve loop from Port Jefferson is a difficult 33.2-mile (53.4 km) route. This trail features significant elevation changes, providing a more strenuous and rewarding experience.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the cycling routes?
Many cycling routes in East Setauket pass by notable attractions. You can explore the Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail, a significant paved path connecting forests, farmlands, and meadows. Other points of interest include the historic Old Field Point Light, the serene Mount Sinai Harbor, and the natural beauty of Glacier Ridge Preserve and Arthur Kunz County Park.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in East Setauket?
The touring cycling routes in East Setauket are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from coastal paths to dense woodlands, and the well-maintained infrastructure, especially the dedicated bike paths like the Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail.
Are there any dedicated bike paths or greenways in East Setauket?
Yes, East Setauket is known for its commitment to cycling infrastructure. A major highlight is the 3-mile paved Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail, which offers a varied and scenic ride through different landscapes. Additionally, there are extensive bike paths at Stony Brook University and trails managed by Concerned Long Island Mountain Bicyclists (CLIMB) on Town and County owned land.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in East Setauket?
Many of the touring cycling routes in East Setauket are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Bike loop from Port Jefferson, the Bike loop from Setauket, and the Laurel Ridge Trails loop from East Setauket, providing convenient options for circular tours.
What is the best season for touring cycling in East Setauket?
East Setauket offers enjoyable cycling experiences across multiple seasons. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and fresh greenery, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Summer is popular for its warm weather, though some routes offer shaded sections. Even mild winter days can be suitable for cycling, especially on paved paths.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking in East Setauket?
While this guide focuses on touring cycling, East Setauket is also a recognized destination for mountain biking. The region features over 15 miles of singletrack trails, including technical sections, switchbacks, and moguls, particularly at the East Setauket trail itself. Other mountain biking areas include Glacier Ridge Preserve and the East Setauket Mountain Bike Trail in Terryville.
Where can I find more information about local parks and preserves in the East Setauket area?
For details on local parks and preserves, including information on facilities and regulations, you can often find resources through the local government. For example, the Town of Brookhaven provides information on its parks and recreational areas, which can be accessed via their official website: brookhavenny.gov.
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