Forest Park is the third-largest park in Queens and the only one with a genuine old-growth oak forest, and Forest Park Drive runs straight through the middle of it — closed, shaded, and rolling rather than flat. The race takes its name from the QueensWay, the abandoned rail line beside it that campaigners have spent a decade trying to convert into a linear park. Running it in early October, with the canopy just turning, is the best-looking 5K in the borough.
What to expect
A road 5K on Forest Park Drive under a city race permit, starting in the morning. The route is wooded and rolling rather than flat. Race details, entry and any fee are set by the organizer, not the permit record — check before travelling.
Good to know
- Nearest transit: J or Z to Woodhaven Blvd, or the Q11 and Q52 buses along Woodhaven Boulevard.
- Forest Park Drive is wooded and rolling — not a flat personal-best course.
- Details here come from the city race permit; entry terms are set by the organizer.
- Early October mornings in the park are cold and damp before the sun is up over the oaks.
- Parking is available at the Forest Park bandshell lot, which fills on race mornings.
Going? Keep it.
Common questions
Where does it start?
On Forest Park Drive inside Forest Park; the city permit lists a 9am start.
Is there an entry fee?
The city permit record does not state a price — check the organizer's race page.