When the siren call of the open road beckons, there’s no better way to answer than with the roar of a motorcycle, traversing the scenic trails that encapsulate the essence of adventure. While some may envision the expansive vistas of Yukon and Alaska as distant retreats, there’s an abundance of thrilling, two-wheeled journeys infused with those northern flavors right within New York’s eclectic neighborhoods. This guide beckons you to explore exhilarating rides, each offering a unique blend of local charm and exhilarating landscapes. Buckle your helmets as we embark on the ultimate Northern motorcycle adventure!
1. The Hudson Valley Sojourn
Address: Starting at 1008 Pleasantville Rd, Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510
Contact: (845) 590-5452
Website: www.hudsonvalleymotorcycleclub.com
The Hudson Valley is akin to an artist’s canvas splashed with vibrant hues of green and gold. Begin your journey at the Briarcliff Manor, where winding roads beckon motorcyclists to uncover hidden gems. Follow the stunning banks of the Hudson River, transitioning from lush woodlands to sweeping views of the water, reminiscent of Yukon’s untouched wilderness. Don’t miss the iconic Walkway Over the Hudson, an exhilarating viewpoint that serves as a reminder of nature’s majesty.
2. The Adirondack Adventure
Address: 2 Main St, Lake George, NY 12845
Contact: (518) 668-5777
Website: www.adk.com
In the Adirondacks, motorcycle enthusiasts find themselves enveloped by the earthy tones of pine and whispering pines, analogous to an Alaskan forest. The ride from Lake George leads through a labyrinth of mountains and lakes, with panoramic views that rival the grandeur of the Last Frontier. Explore the challenging terrain of Route 73 where the ascent offers exhilarating bends, sharp turns, and the sense of conquering nature as you navigate through this rugged marvel.
3. Finger Lakes Expedition
Address: 601 N. Genesee St., Geneva, NY 14456
Contact: (315) 789-4970
Website: www.fingerlakesregion.com
The Finger Lakes are a picturesque mosaic, an abstraction of sparkling water bodies and rolling hills, resembling Alaska’s tranquil lakes in a dreamlike fashion. As you cruise along the Seneca Lake, savor the aromatic serenade from local vineyards that line the roads like Alaska’s wildflowers reaching for the sky. Stopover at Watkins Glen State Park for splendid waterfalls that cascade like Yukon rivers in spring, enhancing your sensory adventure.
4. Catskill Mountain Circuit
Address: 4 Main St., Phoenicia, NY 12464
Contact: (845) 688-7998
Website: www.catskillmountains.com
With roads that weave through the Catskill Mountains, this circuit is a revelation, akin to discovering an undiscovered Alaskan trail. The allure of the Catskills lies in its sweeping vistas and an atmosphere that whispers tales of adventure from yesteryears. Your ride along Route 28 offers the perfect blend of curves and straightaways while guiding you towards the enchanting views at Kaaterskill Falls — a dazzling sight comparable to the waterfalls of Yukon.
5. Staten Island’s Scenic Byways
Address: 10 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301
Contact: (718) 816-2000
Website: www.silive.com
Staten Island, often dubbed the “forgotten borough,” is an unexpected treasure trove waiting to be unveiled. Its quiet roads beckon with the allure of the untamed, reminiscent of Alaska’s vast expanse. Take a ride along the Staten Island Greenbelt, where wooded trails and serene parks transition magically to breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, ensuring a unique juxtaposition to your Northern adventure.
6. Brooklyn Breezes
Address: 339 1st St, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Contact: (718) 864-3962
Website: www.brooklynmotorcycleclub.com
As you navigate the eclectic streets of Brooklyn, feel the pulse of urban life meld with the spirit of adventure. The winding roads leading to Prospect Park provide an urban oasis reminiscent of serene Yukon trails. The dynamic street art and local eateries along the way mirror the cultural tapestry of Alaska’s indigenous communities. Enjoy a moment of reflection before heading into the park, evoking the tranquility of untamed landscapes.
7. The Bronx Scenic Loop
Address: 1235 Lafayette Ave, Bronx, NY 10474
Contact: (718) 430-1800
Website: www.bronx.rangers.com
The Bronx, often overlooked, unfolds its beauty through the scenic loop that parallels the Bronx River. Riding here is much like an Alaskan excursion where nature converges with urban life. The lush green spaces, blended with the river’s gentle currents, provide a symphony of nature’s melodies as you cruise along the winding paths. The comforting embrace of this ride draws you into the heart of an urban wilderness.
8. Long Island’s Coastal Escape
Address: 1000 Old Country Rd, Westbury, NY 11590
Contact: (516) 332-8832
Website: www.limu.com
Long Island’s coastal roads are akin to riding along the shores of a northern fjord, with picturesque beaches and quaint coastal towns lining the route. The salty breeze as you traverse through Montauk offers a myriad of stunning views, akin to standing at the edge of the wild continent. Each stop presents an opportunity to bask in the beauty of local lighthouses that emerge from the sandy shores like sentinels guarding the ocean’s secrets.
9. Queens Urban Exploration
Address: 118-35 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375
Contact: (718) 261-5300
Website: www.queensmotorcyclists.com
Queens boasts a vibrant tapestry of cultures, echoing the diversity of life in arctic communities. The roads weave like rivers through the bustling neighborhoods, each corner revealing a new facet reminiscent of Alaska’s quaint villages. Your ride through Flushing Meadows Park and around the Van Wyck Expressway will invigorate your senses and spark a sense of connection to explorations both near and far.
10. The Staten Island Ferry Ride
Address: 1 Bay St, Staten Island, NY 10301
Contact: (718) 702-5200
Website: www.siferry.com
Finally, no adventure would be complete without a ride on the iconic Staten Island Ferry. While not on land, the journey across the harbor echoes the expansiveness of northern waters. The views of the Statue of Liberty, coupled with the skyline twinkling against the evening sun, encapsulate the spirit of frontier majesty. It’s the perfect denouement to a comprehensive exploration of New York’s hidden northern charms.
Prepare to ignite your spirit of adventure as you experience these enthralling motorcycle journeys in New York’s neighborhoods. Discover the tapestry of experiences that echo the wilds of Yukon and the grandeur of Alaska, all while coasting through the vibrant pulse of the city. Your ultimate northern motorcycle adventure awaits!
