Early September is when fall migration begins and Van Cortlandt Park becomes a stopover for warblers, thrushes, sparrows and raptors moving south, while dragonflies still hunt over the meadows. Naturalist Debbi Dolan walks it slowly and points at things you would otherwise miss entirely. If you want the weekend's quietest 90 minutes, RSVP and ride the 1 train north.
What to expect
A slow-paced 90-minute guided walk from the Van Cortlandt Nature Center through meadows and woodland. Expect early fall migrants overhead, late-season blooms including asters, sunflowers, ironweed and boneset drawing bees and butterflies, and rosehips, blackberries and acorns feeding resident wildlife. Dolan stops frequently to explain what you are looking at.
Good to know
- Take the 1 to Van Cortlandt Park–242nd Street, which puts you at the park's southwest corner.
- RSVP is required in advance even though the walk is free.
- Meet in front of the Van Cortlandt Nature Center rather than at the park entrance.
- Binoculars help a lot during migration season, but the walk works without them.
- Wear shoes you can walk trails in; the route covers meadow and woodland.
- It is a slow-paced walk suitable for most fitness levels.
Get Saturday planned every Thursday
One email a week — the best of the NYC weekend board. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Common questions
Do I need to book?
Yes. The walk is free but RSVP is required in advance through the Van Cortlandt Park Alliance event listing.
What will we see?
Fall migration is underway in early September, so raptors, warblers, thrushes and sparrows are moving through. Late-season blooms are also still drawing bees, wasps, butterflies and dragonflies.
Where do we meet?
In front of the Van Cortlandt Nature Center inside Van Cortlandt Park, reachable on the 1 train at Van Cortlandt Park–242nd Street.
More this weekend
