Van Cortlandt is the third-largest park in New York and the eastern half is where the wild part is: old-growth forest, the freshwater lake, the Croton Aqueduct trail and the oldest house in the Bronx sitting at the edge of it. A guided exploration is the fastest way to learn what you are looking at rather than just walking through it. Free, ninety minutes, and it starts from the lawn behind the park house.
What to expect
Expect a group walk led from the park house lawn out into the eastern woodland and trails, with stops for the plants, birds and history along the way. Terrain is a mix of paved path and packed dirt, with some slope. Wear shoes you can walk trails in and bring water and insect repellent.
Good to know
- Van Cortlandt Park is at the end of the 1 line at 242nd Street and reachable on the 4 at Woodlawn.
- Free — meet at the lawn behind the park house.
- Wear closed shoes; parts of the route are unpaved.
- Bring water and insect repellent for wooded trails in August.
- The Van Cortlandt House Museum, the oldest building in the Bronx, is on site.
- Good for anyone who wants a guided introduction rather than a solo wander.
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Common questions
Where does it meet?
On the lawn behind the park house at Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx.
How long is it?
About ninety minutes.
Is it free?
Yes — it is a free NYC Parks guided programme.
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