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They call NYC the concrete jungle. But did you also know that NYC has almost 7 million trees covering 21 percent of the city? You don’t need to head upstate or New Jersey to experience a peaceful hike along beautiful wildlife. Here are 5 of my favorite places to go hiking in NYC.
Bronx: Raoul Wallenberg Forest
Enjoy 50 acres of woods and trails that lead to spectacular views of the Palisades. Don’t forget your binoculars for some bird watching. You may be able to spot a Red-eyed Vireo, an Orchard Oriole, or even a majestic Screech Owl.
Level: Beginner and Intermediate, unpaved trails.
Marine Park is Brooklyn’s largest park, where you can discover meadows adorned with wildflowers, and jungles of shrubs and vines. Follow the red trail for the park’s grasslands and wetlands, and an amazing view of North Manhattan.
Level: Beginner, paved and unpaved trails.
This 196-acre park is Manhattan’s last natural forest and salt marsh. The orange and blue trails will take you to the Overlook Meadow for views of the Hudson River. Make sure to scan the skies above, where you may spot a soaring Red-Tailed Hawk.
Level: Beginner, paved and unpaged trails.
Cunningham Park is one of the most undisturbed natural areas in New York City, with a lush growth of oak, tulip and hickory trees. The orange trail will lead you alongside many kettle ponds, where you can hear the courtship songs of wood frogs and Fowler’s toads.
Level: Beginner and Intermediate, unpaved trails.
Goodhue Park’s scenic woodlands and ponds make it a perfect get-away from the busy NYC streets. The red trail is ideal for dog walkers. And keep a look out for the legendary Earl, a large snapping turtle who lives in the park’s pond.
Level: Beginner and Intermediate, unpaved trails.