Transit

Metro-North, NJ Transit, and LIRR

In a nutshell, you simply walk on. Metro-North, NJ Transit, and LIRR all allow you to walk your bike directly onboard. There’s usually some form of luggage or stroller/wheelchair space toward the ends of the train cars where you can lean your bike. When in doubt, just ask the conductor. Here are a few other tips: 

• Board early. There are only so many spots you can put your bike on each train, so board early before the crowds. 
• Beware train schedules. If you’re trying to head upstate at 5pm on Friday, then you’re out of your mind. You also can’t bring your bike on board trains at peak hours. Check the schedules beforehand to be aware of any restrictions. I’m a big fan of the Saturday morning train, you can never go wrong.
• Follow the rules. Each train line has its own set of dos and don’ts with regards to bikes on board. You can find them here for Metro-North, NJ Transit, and LIRR.

Amtrak

Amtrak’s process is a little more formal. Here are the key steps:

• Reserve. First you have to reserve a bike pass when you purchase your ticket, which usually runs about $20. 
• Check in. Next, always arrive early and check in at the ticket counter to let them know you’re there with a bike. They’ll often have you begin boarding before the rest of the crowds. 
• All aboard. Finally, bring your bike on board. Some routes, your bike will go in a baggage car. They’re supposed to have bike racks but don’t always, so you may have to lie it down or lean it securely against other luggage. Sometimes there is an attendant who will handle this directly for you, while other times they let you do it yourself. On some other routes you can bring your bike in the passenger car. The rack there may require you to take the front wheel off. 

You can find more info on Amtrak’s bike policies at these links:

• Bring You Bicycle On Board
• Bring Bikes On Northeast Trains
• Bike FAQs

Ferries

Worth noting that you can also walk your bike onto ferries! The FAQs for the Staten Island Ferry, NYC Ferry, and Seastreak all provide the rules of the road.

Driving

I use Traillink religiously to map out all routes and identify good trailheads for parking.