At Manhattan’s northern tip, Inwood Hill Park preserves the island’s last natural forest and salt marsh. Marked trails wind through wooded hills past rocky formations and historic sites, with views across the Hudson River to the New Jersey Palisades and Henry Hudson Bridge. Look for old-growth trees, the salt marsh and local birdlife; bald eagles are sometimes seen here. The terrain ranges from easier walks to steep, muddy paths, so this is a better fit for a hike than a paved, level stroll. Playgrounds, sports fields and picnic areas add options for a longer visit.
Manhattan’s natural forest
Inwood Hill Park occupies 196 acres at the northern end of Manhattan. Much of it remains wooded and undeveloped, preserving a landscape of hills, forest, meadows and salt marsh that differs from the borough’s designed parks. The land stayed comparatively rural until the Parks Department acquired it in 1916 and chose to keep much of it in a natural state.
The marked trails pass through forest that includes old-growth trees. Near the top of the hill stand two cottonwoods planted before the park was established. The park’s wooded slopes and open edges also provide habitat for birds; around 150 species have been estimated to fly through the area each year.
Rock formations and historic sites
The park’s rocky outcrops and glacial potholes recall the landscape’s geological past. Some of the potholes are more than 50,000 years old. Trails also pass Shorakapok Rock, believed to be the place where Manhattan was originally sold, and caves and rock shelters associated with the Lenape, the area’s original inhabitants.
The park was known as Cock or Cox Hill during the colonial and post-Revolutionary War periods. Its current name has no clearly established origin in the information available here.
Views, marsh and wildlife
Hiking routes lead to views of the Hudson River, the New Jersey Palisades, Spuyten Duyvil Creek and Henry Hudson Bridge. Overlook Meadow is another place to take in the river and surrounding landscape. Along the salt marsh, watch for birds; bald eagles have been seen in the park, though a sighting is not guaranteed.
The Hudson River Bike Trail runs through the park, alongside walking routes and areas used for running and sports. The Henry Hudson Parkway crosses parts of the area, so road noise is audible in some spots.
Choosing a trail and planning your walk
Marked routes vary in difficulty and surface. Some sections are paved, while others are partly paved or unpaved, with steep uphill stretches. A shorter, easier route is a sensible starting point if you are unfamiliar with the terrain; save the steepest path for a hike that matches your fitness and footwear.
Bring shoes suited to wet, soft ground, especially after conditions that leave puddles on the trails. The park also has playgrounds, sports courts and fields, picnic areas, restrooms and a dog run, so you can plan a walk around family time or outdoor recreation.
FAQ
Where is Inwood Hill Park?
It is at the northern tip of Manhattan, at Payson Avenue and Seaman Avenue in New York City.
What can you see in Inwood Hill Park?
The park has forest trails, old-growth trees, glacial rock formations, historic sites and a salt marsh. Views include the Hudson River, the New Jersey Palisades and Henry Hudson Bridge.
Are the trails difficult?
Trail surfaces and inclines vary. Some routes are steep, partly paved or unpaved, so begin with an easier path if you are unsure.
Can you see bald eagles in the park?
Bald eagles have been seen at Inwood Hill Park, but a sighting is not guaranteed.
