The Ramble, Central Park – The Pool, Central Park loop from 96th Street
The Ramble, Central Park – The Pool, Central Park loop from 96th Street
4.7
(3592)
14,623
hikers
The Ramble, Central Park – The Pool, Central Park loop from 96th Street
04:35
17.7km
100m
Hiking
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 7, 2026
Tips
Temporary access restrictions
Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.
After 16.4 km for 232 m
Closed: • 1:00 AM-6:00 AM (otherwise open)
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
461 m
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
1.07 km
View of the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
2.12 km
American Museum of Natural History
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.18 km
Imagine Mosaic, Strawberry Fields
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.57 km
View of the Manhattan Skyline from Hernshead
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.85 km
The Ramble, Central Park
Highlight • Forest
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.87 km
View of the New York City Skyline from Central Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
8.13 km
West side highway access
Viewpoint
17.1 km
The Pool, Central Park
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
17.7 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
16.9 km
550 m
110 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
7.22 km
5.89 km
2.05 km
2.05 km
446 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 9 July
26°C
22°C
82 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking to truly escape the city without leaving it, The Ramble, Central Park – The Pool, Central Park loop from 96th Street is a fantastic hiking route. This moderate 11.0-mile (17.7 km) journey packs in 339 feet (103 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 4 hours and 34 minutes to complete. It's perfect for those who want to see Central Park's wilder side and experience its diverse landscapes, offering a comprehensive view of the park's ecosystems.
What to expect on The Ramble, Central Park – The Pool, Central Park loop from 96th Street
The route takes you through vastly different worlds within the park. You'll start by exploring The Ramble, a 36-acre "wild garden" with winding dirt paths, rustic bridges, and the meandering Gill stream. It's easy to get happily lost here amidst the dense plantings and rock outcroppings, a true birdwatching paradise. As you head north towards The Pool, the terrain shifts, eventually leading you into the rugged North Woods. Here, you'll find mulch-covered paths, hidden waterfalls, and the serene Loch, offering a more rigorous hiking experience with steep inclines and natural springs. This trail is best for hikers who appreciate varied landscapes and don't mind a good workout, especially if you're keen to discover Central Park's less-trodden, wilder corners.
Planning your visit
Starting from 96th Street, this loop offers excellent public transport access, making it easy to reach without a car. While Central Park is always accessible, visiting during the shoulder seasons like spring or fall can offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, especially around The Pool and North Woods. Always carry enough water, even for a city hike, and wear appropriate footwear for varied terrain, as some sections are unpaved and can be hilly.
Trail details
- Distance: 11.0 miles (17.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 339 feet (103 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 4 hours and 34 minutes
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