Central Park’s North Woods may be one of the more surprising finds in all of New York. In the middle of the city, you can be immersed in a lush forest. You can spot birds, squirrels and racoons wondering around. You can watch the colors of the leaves turning with the season.
Whether you are visitor or resident, the North Woods is worth a trip and a hike to remind yourself of the calming affects of nature — even if crowded sidewalks and busy streets are only a few blocks away.
Entrance to Manhattan’s Forest
You can access the North Woods from several entrances along the western and northern sides of the park. The North Woods is flanked on the west by the Great Hill (between 104th and 106th Streets).
From the northern border of the park, you can enter the park right across the main interior drive. Just enter from 110th Street and Adam Clayton Powell, cross the drive and you’ll see a pathway to your right. It even as a ramp, so you can take a stroller into the woods.
Rustic Steps, Leaf Covered Trails & Peaceful Walks
The North Woods includes a mix of asphalt walkways and more natural dirt / leaf-covered paths. It also has rustic archways and steps carved into the landscape.
Within a few minutes, the noise of the city will become a distant hum. It’s a great place to catch your breath and lower your stress level. You’ll see plenty of species of wild birds, flowers and trees.
Nearby Food & Attractions
After your walk through the woods, there’s plenty more to do nearby. Harlem Meer, a beautiful lake, is just east of the North Woods. You can also wander north into Harlem for plenty of options for dining.
Frederick Douglas Boulevard — starting on the northwest corner of Central Park — is your best bet for food. The stretch from 110th north has been dubbed Harlem’s “Restaurant Row” with plenty of cafes, taverns and restaurants. Harlem Tavern at 116th Street has a nice selection of casual options and plenty of outdoor seating. Levain Bakery at 117th Street sells amazingly rich cookies and usually has a shorter line than its Upper West Side location.
On the northeast side of the park, you’ll find fewer options. Maxwell’s (5th Avenue at 111th Street) is a great place to grab a drink and pub fare just a block away from the park.
We hope you’ll set aside a few hours to explore the North Woods and the upper part of Central Park. Most tourists tend to stick to the lower region, but you’ll find a more peaceful excursion further north and have access to one of New York’s iconic neighborhoods in Harlem.
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