Van Cortlandt Park's cross-country course is the most storied running ground in the country — American cross-country racing effectively began here in the 1880s, and generations of high school and college runners have gone up the Cemetery Hill climb since. A free Shape Up NYC group puts you on that same flat parade-ground start, no club membership required. If you run at all, this is a place worth running once.
What to expect
Expect an all-levels group meeting on the open parade ground, with a leader setting a pace people can hold and routes that either stay flat on the grass or head onto the wooded trails. Shape Up NYC sessions are free and drop-in, so you can size it up before committing. Bring water; the parade ground has limited shade.
Good to know
- Van Cortlandt Park's parade ground sits near the Broadway side of the park in the northwest Bronx.
- The 1 at Van Cortlandt Park–242nd Street drops you at the parade ground's edge.
- Shape Up NYC classes are free and open to all levels with no registration.
- Wear trail-tolerant shoes if you want to take the wooded routes.
- Bring water — the parade ground is wide open with little shade.
- The flat grass makes it manageable for beginners; the hills are optional.
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Common questions
What is Shape Up NYC?
A free fitness program run through NYC Parks offering drop-in classes in parks and recreation centers across the city.
Why is Van Cortlandt famous for running?
Its cross-country course is one of the oldest and most raced in the United States, used by high school and college programs for well over a century.
Do I need to be fast?
No — the group is all levels and drop-in.
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