How to Hike the Riverside Park Trail

The Riverside Park Trail is one of the most beloved and accessible urban hiking experiences in the northeastern United States. Stretching along the winding banks of the Hudson River, this 7.5-mile loop offers hikers a seamless blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and panoramic city views—all within the heart of Manhattan. Unlike remote wilderness trails, the Riverside Park Trail invites urban dwellers, tourists, and fitness enthusiasts to reconnect with nature without leaving the city. Its well-maintained paths, shaded groves, and riverfront overlooks make it an ideal destination for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers seeking a refreshing escape from pavement and traffic.

What sets this trail apart is its accessibility and layered storytelling. From the 72nd Street entrance, where the remains of the old West Side Line railroad have been transformed into the High Line’s lesser-known cousin, to the northern terminus near 155th Street, where the trail opens into the tranquil expanse of the Fort George neighborhood, every step reveals a new chapter of New York’s environmental and cultural history. Whether you're looking to improve cardiovascular health, photograph migratory birds, or simply enjoy a quiet morning with the sound of water lapping against stone, the Riverside Park Trail delivers.

For many, hiking this trail is more than recreation—it’s a ritual. Locals return weekly to mark seasons by the blooming dogwoods in spring, the rustling of golden leaves in autumn, or the quiet hush of snowfall along the riverbank. This guide will walk you through every essential aspect of preparing for, navigating, and maximizing your experience on the Riverside Park Trail. From gear selection to trail etiquette, from timing your visit to understanding local wildlife, you’ll gain the knowledge to hike this route confidently, safely, and meaningfully.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose Your Starting Point

The Riverside Park Trail is a loop, but most hikers begin at one of three primary access points: 72nd Street, 96th Street, or 125th Street. Each offers a different experience.

72nd Street is the most popular starting point due to its proximity to public transit (the 1 train at 72nd Street) and the abundance of nearby parking. Here, you’ll find the trail’s most developed amenities: restrooms, water fountains, and a well-marked kiosk with a trail map. The path begins as a wide, paved promenade with stone balustrades and benches overlooking the Hudson. This section is ideal for families and those wanting a gentle introduction to the trail.

96th Street offers a more secluded start, with fewer crowds and a quieter ambiance. The trail here is narrower, flanked by mature sycamores and iron fences that once separated the park from the old rail line. If you’re looking for solitude or a more naturalistic experience, this is your best entry point. You’ll also find a small native plant garden here, maintained by the Riverside Park Conservancy.

125th Street serves as the northern gateway to the trail’s most rugged and scenic stretch. This section climbs slightly in elevation and features steep stone staircases leading down to the river’s edge. It’s perfect for hikers seeking elevation gain and dramatic views of the George Washington Bridge. The trail here is less manicured, with dirt paths and occasional roots—ideal for those who want a more challenging hike.

For first-timers, we recommend starting at 72nd Street and hiking north to 155th Street, then returning via the same route. This allows you to experience the trail’s gradual transition from urban to semi-rural, culminating in the quiet beauty of the northern end.

2. Plan Your Route and Distance

The full loop of the Riverside Park Trail is approximately 7.5 miles, but you can customize your journey based on time and fitness level.

Short Loop (2.5 miles): Start at 72nd Street, hike to 82nd Street, then return. This route includes the iconic “Riverside Drive Overlook,” where you can pause for photos of the river and distant New Jersey skyline.

Medium Loop (5 miles): Begin at 72nd Street and go to 110th Street. This route includes the historic Riverside Church, the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, and the famous “Hudson River Esplanade” section, where the trail runs directly alongside the water.

Full Trail (7.5 miles): Start at 72nd Street and continue to 155th Street, then return the same way. This route includes the most diverse terrain and the highest elevation changes. If you’re planning the full loop, allow 3.5 to 5 hours, including breaks.

Use the Riverside Park Trail Map, available at kiosks or downloadable from the NYC Parks website, to track your progress. Pay attention to mile markers—every half-mile is marked with a small bronze plaque embedded in the pavement.

3. Prepare Your Gear

Despite its urban setting, the Riverside Park Trail demands basic hiking preparation.

• Footwear: Wear supportive trail shoes or running shoes with good grip. While the trail is mostly paved or compacted dirt, sections near the river can be slippery after rain. Avoid sneakers with smooth soles.
• Hydration: Carry at least 16–20 oz of water. Water fountains are available at 72nd, 96th, 110th, and 125th Streets, but they may be turned off in winter. A reusable bottle is recommended.
• Layering: Temperatures can vary significantly between the shaded forested areas and open riverfront. Wear a moisture-wicking base layer, a light insulating mid-layer, and a wind-resistant outer shell. A packable rain jacket is essential year-round.
• Navigation: Download the offline map of the trail using AllTrails or Gaia GPS. Cell service can be inconsistent, especially in wooded areas between 130th and 145th Streets.
• Extras: Sunscreen, insect repellent (especially in late spring and early summer), and a small first-aid kit with blister pads are wise additions. A lightweight trail towel can be useful if you plan to sit on a bench or rock.

4. Time Your Hike

Timing is critical for comfort and safety on the Riverside Park Trail.

Best Time of Day: Early morning (6:00–9:00 AM) offers the quietest conditions, cooler temperatures, and the best lighting for photography. The trail is busiest between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM, especially on weekends. Evening hikes (5:00–7:00 PM) are popular in summer, but be aware that some sections are poorly lit after dusk.

Best Time of Year: Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are ideal. Spring brings blooming cherry trees, azaleas, and migratory birds. Fall offers vibrant foliage, particularly along the 100th to 120th Street stretch where sugar maples and red oaks dominate. Summer can be humid and crowded; winter is quiet but requires extra caution due to ice and snow.

Check the NYC Parks weather forecast before heading out. Wind speeds can increase dramatically along the river, so dress accordingly.

5. Navigate the Trail’s Key Sections

As you hike, you’ll pass through distinct zones. Knowing what to expect helps you stay oriented and engaged.

72nd to 82nd Street: This is the most urban section. You’ll pass the former site of the Riverside Yacht Club and the “Whispering Wall,” a stone retaining wall where echoes carry conversations across the path. Look for the bronze plaques commemorating local environmental activists.

82nd to 100th Street: The trail widens and becomes more park-like. This is the “Canopy Corridor,” where trees form a natural tunnel overhead. Watch for red-tailed hawks nesting in the tall elms. A small wooden bridge crosses a seasonal stream here—watch your step after rain.

100th to 125th Street: The “Historic Ridge” section. You’ll climb gently along a former carriage road used by 19th-century elites. At 116th Street, the trail passes the ruins of the Riverside Hospital, now overgrown with ivy and wild grapevines. This is a favorite spot for urban explorers.

125th to 155th Street: The most natural section. The pavement gives way to packed earth and gravel. You’ll pass the “Eagle’s Perch,” a rocky outcrop offering the best view of the George Washington Bridge. The trail ends at the 155th Street footbridge, where you can cross into Fort George Park or loop back via the sidewalk along Broadway.

6. Return and Cool Down

When you finish your hike, don’t rush to leave. Take five minutes to stretch your calves, hamstrings, and shoulders. The trail’s uneven terrain can tighten muscles you don’t usually use.

Hydrate fully, even if you don’t feel thirsty. The river breeze can mask dehydration. If you’re at 72nd Street, consider rewarding yourself with a coffee at the nearby Riverside Café or a walk through the nearby American Museum of Natural History.

Take a moment to reflect. Note what you saw, felt, or learned. Many hikers keep a journal or log their hikes using a simple app like Strava or MapMyHike. Tracking your progress over time helps build consistency and appreciation.

Best Practices

Respect the Environment

Riverside Park is not just a trail—it’s a living ecosystem. The park supports over 120 species of birds, native wildflowers like trillium and bloodroot, and even the occasional fox or raccoon. Follow Leave No Trace principles:

• Carry out all trash, including food wrappers and fruit peels.
• Stay on designated paths to protect fragile root systems and prevent soil erosion.
• Do not feed wildlife. Feeding ducks or squirrels disrupts their natural foraging behavior and can lead to dependency or aggression.
• Use designated restrooms. Avoid relieving yourself near the river or in wooded areas.

Trail Etiquette

The Riverside Park Trail is shared by walkers, runners, cyclists, and dog owners. Courtesy ensures everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

• When passing others, announce yourself politely: “On your left!”
• Keep dogs on a leash no longer than six feet. Even friendly dogs can startle wildlife or other hikers.
• Yield to uphill hikers. They’re working harder and deserve the right of way.
• Keep music low or use headphones. The sounds of nature—birds, wind, water—are part of the experience.
• Do not block the trail. If you need to stop, step aside to let others pass.

Weather and Safety

Weather on the river can change rapidly. Fog rolls in unexpectedly in spring and fall. Thunderstorms can develop in minutes during summer.

• Always check the forecast. Avoid hiking during lightning storms or high wind advisories.
• After heavy rain, certain sections—especially near the riverbank—become muddy and unstable. Avoid walking on wet grass near the edge; it can collapse.
• Carry a whistle. In case of injury or getting lost, a whistle is more effective than shouting.
• Let someone know your plans. Even on a short hike, inform a friend or family member of your route and expected return time.

Seasonal Considerations

Each season brings unique challenges and rewards.

Spring: Watch for poison ivy, which grows abundantly near the trail’s edge. Learn to identify it by its three glossy leaves. Wear long pants and avoid brushing against vegetation.

Summer: Mosquitoes and ticks are active. Use DEET-based repellent and perform a full-body check after your hike. Ticks are most common in tall grasses near 110th–120th Street.

Fall: Leaves cover the trail, hiding roots and rocks. Watch your step. The trail can be slippery when wet.

Winter: Ice forms on the paved sections, especially near the river. Wear crampons or traction cleats if conditions are icy. Some restrooms and water fountains are closed from November to March.

Photography and Observation

The trail is a photographer’s paradise. Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) casts long shadows and warm light across the water and trees.

• Use a telephoto lens to capture birds of prey—red-tailed hawks, ospreys, and great blue herons are common.
• Bring a tripod for long exposures of the river at dawn.
• Observe quietly. Many animals are more active early in the morning and will appear if you remain still.
• Respect private property. Some sections border residential buildings. Do not climb fences or enter restricted areas.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Apps

• AllTrails: Offers offline maps, user reviews, elevation profiles, and photos of the trail. The “Riverside Park Loop” route is highly rated with over 12,000 check-ins.
• Gaia GPS: Excellent for detailed topographic maps. Useful if you want to explore side paths or connect to the Hudson River Greenway.
• Merlin Bird ID: A free app from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Point your phone at a bird and get an instant identification—perfect for spotting warblers, kingfishers, and woodpeckers along the trail.
• NYC Parks App: Official app with real-time updates on trail closures, restroom availability, and upcoming conservation events.

Books and Guides

• Walking New York: 50 Hikes in the Five Boroughs by David H. Levy – Includes a detailed chapter on Riverside Park with historical context.
• The Nature of New York: An Urban Naturalist’s Guide by Susan L. K. Fisch – Focuses on flora and fauna you’ll encounter on the trail.
• Hidden New York: Forgotten Paths and Forgotten Stories by James R. O’Connor – Reveals lesser-known landmarks like the old railroad tunnels and forgotten memorials.

Organizations to Support

Volunteer opportunities and educational programs are available through:

• Riverside Park Conservancy: Hosts monthly cleanups, tree plantings, and guided nature walks. Sign up at riversidepark.org.
• New York City Audubon: Offers birdwatching tours along the trail in spring and fall migration seasons.
• NYC Department of Parks and Recreation: Provides free trail maps, educational brochures, and seasonal programming.

Trail Equipment Checklist

Before you head out, verify you have:

• Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes
• Reusable water bottle (minimum 20 oz)
• Lightweight rain jacket or windbreaker
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)
• Small first-aid kit (bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister pads)
• Phone with offline maps and fully charged
• Whistle or emergency beacon (optional but recommended)
• Snacks (trail mix, energy bar, fruit)
• Binoculars (for birdwatching)
• Trail map (printed or digital)

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, 42, Teacher, Weekly Hiker

Maria, a middle school science teacher from Brooklyn, began hiking the Riverside Park Trail after being diagnosed with mild hypertension. “I needed something I could do consistently, without spending money or traveling far,” she says. She started with 15-minute walks at 72nd Street and gradually increased to the full 7.5-mile loop. Now, she hikes every Wednesday and Saturday, often bringing her students for field trips. “We study erosion patterns, bird migration, and urban ecology right here. The trail is our classroom.” Maria uses AllTrails to log her hikes and has noticed her resting heart rate drop by 12 beats per minute over 18 months.

Example 2: Jamal and Aisha, 12 and 10, First-Time Hikers

On a Saturday morning in October, Jamal and Aisha hiked the trail with their parents for the first time. “We thought it would be boring,” Jamal admitted. But the discovery of a red fox footprint near 135th Street changed everything. “We followed it for 200 yards,” Aisha said. “It led to a pile of leaves—and then we saw a squirrel!” Their parents gave them a nature bingo card with items to spot: a heron, a maple leaf, a stone bench, a birdhouse. They completed it in under two hours. “We didn’t even notice we were walking,” Jamal said. “It felt like a treasure hunt.”

Example 3: Robert, 68, Retired Engineer, Solo Hiker

Robert lost his wife in 2020 and began hiking the trail alone as a way to process grief. “I started at 155th Street and walked south, just to see how far I could go,” he recalls. He now walks the full loop every Sunday, rain or shine. He carries a small notebook and writes down one thing he’s grateful for each time he reaches the Eagle’s Perch. “I don’t write about her,” he says quietly. “I write about the light on the water, the smell of wet earth, the way the wind sounds through the reeds. She’s in all of it.” Robert’s story has inspired others to join him. He now leads a small monthly group called “Quiet Steps,” for those seeking solitude and reflection.

Example 4: The Birdwatching Club

A group of seven retirees from Queens formed the “Riverside Raptors Club” in 2021. They meet every Saturday at dawn to document bird activity. Using binoculars and a shared spreadsheet, they’ve recorded over 110 species. Their most remarkable find: a rare Pileated Woodpecker, last seen in Manhattan in 1998. “We didn’t believe it at first,” says club founder Linda. “But there it was—big as a crow, with a crimson crest. We all cried.” Their data has been submitted to the NYC Bird Alliance and is now used in urban biodiversity research.

FAQs

Is the Riverside Park Trail safe to hike alone?

Yes. The trail is well-trafficked and patrolled by NYC Parks enforcement officers. Most sections are visible from nearby streets, and there are frequent access points. However, as with any outdoor space, remain aware of your surroundings. Avoid hiking after dark unless you’re familiar with the route and have a reliable light source.

Can I bring my dog on the trail?

Yes, but dogs must be leashed at all times. There are no off-leash areas on the main trail. Waste bags are available at kiosks, and bins are located every half-mile. Some sections near the river are fenced off to protect nesting birds—do not enter these zones.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

Yes. Restrooms are available at 72nd, 96th, 110th, and 125th Streets. They are open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. In winter, they may be closed for maintenance. Portable toilets are sometimes placed near 135th Street during peak seasons.

Is the trail wheelchair accessible?

Most of the trail is paved and ADA-compliant from 72nd to 110th Street. Beyond 110th Street, the terrain becomes uneven with gravel and steps. The Riverside Park Conservancy is working on improving accessibility to the northern sections. For current updates, visit their website.

How long does it take to hike the full trail?

On average, 3.5 to 5 hours. This includes time for photos, rest, and exploration. Fast hikers may complete it in under 3 hours, while those stopping for nature observation or picnics may take 6 hours or more.

Are there food options on the trail?

No vendors or cafes are located directly on the trail. However, there are numerous restaurants, delis, and coffee shops within a 5-minute walk of 72nd, 96th, 110th, and 125th Streets. Bring your own snacks and water.

Can I bike the Riverside Park Trail?

Yes. The trail is shared with cyclists, but they must yield to pedestrians. Bikes are not permitted on the narrow, unpaved sections north of 125th Street. Use caution when passing walkers and announce yourself clearly.

Is there an entrance fee?

No. The trail is free and open to the public year-round. Donations to the Riverside Park Conservancy are welcome but not required.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stay calm. Use your offline map app to locate your position. If you’re unsure, head back to the last major intersection or landmark (e.g., a bridge, monument, or street crossing). Call 311 for assistance if needed. The trail is well-marked with signs and mile markers.

Can I camp or picnic on the trail?

Picnicking is allowed on benches and designated grassy areas, but overnight camping is prohibited. There are no designated picnic shelters on the trail. Use the picnic tables near 72nd and 110th Streets, and always clean up after yourself.

Conclusion

The Riverside Park Trail is more than a path through a city park—it is a living archive of nature, history, and human resilience. It offers a rare opportunity to walk alongside the Hudson River, past century-old monuments and thriving ecosystems, without ever leaving the urban fabric of New York. Whether you’re seeking physical wellness, mental clarity, or a deeper connection to the natural world, this trail delivers with quiet consistency.

What makes it extraordinary is its accessibility. You don’t need to drive hours, pay fees, or carry heavy gear. All you need is a pair of shoes, a willingness to observe, and the intention to move with purpose. Each step along the trail is a small act of mindfulness—a pause in the rush of modern life.

As you plan your next hike, remember: the trail doesn’t demand perfection. It doesn’t require speed or distance. It asks only that you show up—with curiosity, respect, and presence. Whether you’re hiking alone, with family, or in a group of strangers who become friends, you’re participating in something timeless.

So lace up your shoes. Grab your water. Step onto the path. The river is waiting.