How to Rollerblade the Hudson River in Manhattan

Have you ever wanted to rollerblade in Manhattan without the fear of being struck by a speeding taxi? Do you want to avoid the crowds in Central Park while still having a nice view to look at? Try the Greenway along the Hudson River!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rollerblades
• Socks
• Backpack
• Shoes
• Water
• ipod/mp3 player
• Sunglasses
• Knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, helmet
• Comfortable clothes

How to Rollerblade the Hudson River

1. Determine how far you want to travel along the trail. The Upper West Side to Soho is approxmately 4.5 miles, roughly 90 blocks or so, to give you an idea of distance. If there are specific parts of the Greenway you would like to rollerblade and you are unsure about the distance, I recommend visiting www.nyc.gov and checking out their maps. Although the Greenway continues to the East side of Manhattan, I'm focusing mostly on the Hudson River side.

2. Once you know how far you would like to go, it's time to pack your bag. Because rollerblading on sidewalks can be hazardous, I recommend carrying your rollerblades to the path, and then changing into them there. Wear flip flops or flat sneakers that can slide easily into your backpack. Carry your socks inside your rollerblades and your padding in your backpack. I recommend high, thick, calf-length socks to avoid the tops of the skates from rubbing your legs.

3. If you want a nice ride, I suggest walking to Riverside park in the West 80's. If you walk to the water, you can either enter via the bike passage ramp, or you can walk a little further south and head down the stairs. Because the bikers can go pretty fast down the ramp, the stairs are a safer way to go. Once at the bottom of the stairs, walk to the water and take a seat on the bench, where you can exchange your shoes for your rollerblades. Although padding isn't mandatory, I suggest at least wrist guards and a helmet, though knee pads are a smart idea as well.

4. Because of construction, you can only go south from this point of the trail. Skate along the river as far as you like. The path curves inward (away from the water) to allow room for piers and bridges at a few points, but it always comes back out to the water, so don't get off thinking the water views are over. There are numerous places to exit when you become tired. Just be sure to find a place off the path to change back into your sneakers.

Tips & Warnings

• Pack a small water bottle in case you get thirsty - you won't really have an opportunity to stop for a drink once you are on the trail.
• Wear sunglasses!
• Use a bag with shoulder straps that fits snug to your back. The last thing you want is your backpack throwing you off-balance.
• Bring portable music to keep your stride going when you get tired. Most come with athletic cases that fasten to your arm.
• Wear comfortable clothing that breathes when you sweat. It will feel better when the breeze from the water hits you.
• Watch out for speed bumps! They are frequent and are raised contrete squares, which can easily make you fall. If you are nervous about skating over them, reduce your speed and try to step over them to the best of your ability.
• Watch out for bikes! They come at you pretty fast from both ahead and behind.
• Watch out for walkers! They cross in front of you assuming you'll stop.
• Watch out for traffic! Although the trail is off main roads, you will occassionally come across a parking lot or building entrance. Watch for cars.

Resources

• nyc.gov map
• bike the hudson

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