Greenlawn to Nissequogue loop

The Greenlawn to Nissequogue loop is approximately 60.9 kilometers (37.8 miles) long. For a racebike, it's estimated to take around 2 hours and 48 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

This route is rated as a 'moderate road ride'. It features rolling hills with an elevation gain of about 430 meters spread over its length, requiring a good level of fitness. It's a consistent effort rather than extreme challenges.

The Greenlawn to Nissequogue loop primarily features well-paved surfaces, with approximately 46.8 km of asphalt and 13.7 km of other paved roads, offering a smooth riding experience. You'll encounter rolling hills throughout the ride.

You'll experience diverse and picturesque scenery. Highlights include views of the Nissequogue River, especially with a small detour from Sunken Meadow Road. The route also traverses through significant green spaces like Arthur Kunz County Park and Blydenburgh County Park, which offers panoramic views of Stump Pond and historical structures at Blydenburgh Farm.

Given it's a road cycling route, spring, summer, and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions. Spring and fall provide cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer is great for longer daylight hours. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While specific parking areas for the entire loop aren't detailed, you can typically find parking near the start/end points in Greenlawn or Smithtown. Consider parking at one of the county parks along the route, such as Arthur Kunz County Park or Blydenburgh County Park, and starting your ride from there.

Cycling on the public roads that make up most of this loop generally does not require a permit. However, if you plan to enter or park within Sunken Meadow State Park, there may be vehicle entrance fees, especially during peak season. It's always best to check the official New York State Parks website for current fee schedules and regulations.

This route is rated as 'moderate' and requires 'good fitness' due to its length and rolling hills. While not extremely challenging, it might be a bit much for absolute beginners. Cyclists with some experience and a reasonable fitness level will enjoy it more.

As this is primarily a road cycling route, dogs are generally not recommended to accompany cyclists on the paved roads for safety reasons. However, if you visit the county parks along the route, such as Arthur Kunz County Park or Blydenburgh County Park, they typically have specific rules regarding dogs, usually requiring them to be on a leash. Always check park-specific regulations.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Long Island Greenbelt Trail, Kings Park Hike and Bike Trail, and the Northport Rail Trail, offering connections to a broader network of trails.

For rewarding views of the Nissequogue River, consider a small detour from Sunken Meadow Road. Additionally, Blydenburgh County Park offers panoramic views of Stump Pond, which is the second-largest lake on Long Island and largely undeveloped, providing a serene natural vista.