Street of Willow Mural

The Riverside Park – The Pool, Central Park loop from 103rd Street offers a unique urban hiking experience, seamlessly blending the structured beauty of Riverside Park with the wilder, forest-like terrain of Central Park's North Woods. You'll traverse paved paths with stunning Hudson River views before diving into dirt trails that wind past The Pool and through The Ravine, complete with waterfalls and dense tree canopies. This route provides a diverse visual journey, from riverfront promenades to secluded woodlands, making it feel like two distinct hikes in one.

This moderate 5.5-mile (8.8 km) hike involves a gentle 198 feet (60 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 2 hours and 17 minutes to complete. It's easily accessible via public transport to the 103rd Street entrances of both parks. While the route is enjoyable year-round, consider visiting in the fall for vibrant foliage around The Pool or in the spring to catch the cherry blossoms in Riverside Park. No permits are required, and the trail is well-suited for a leisurely exploration of Manhattan's green spaces.

What makes this loop truly stand out is its ability to offer such diverse natural environments within a bustling city. Designed by landscape architects like Frederick Law Olmsted, both parks are scenic landmarks, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, especially birdwatching. The contrast between Riverside Park's riverine ecosystem and Central Park's