Top 10 NYC Running Trails

While Central Park and the Hudson River Greenway are iconic running spots in NYC, there are plenty of other trails worth exploring. Here are 10 hidden running gems to discover in the city:

1. The Rockaway Beach Boardwalk: The 5.5-mile wooden boardwalk along the beach is ideal for a leisurely run with stunning ocean views.
2. The Brooklyn Greenway: This 14-mile trail runs from Greenpoint to Bay Ridge and provides a scenic route along the waterfront.
3. The Bronx River Greenway: This 23-mile trail stretches from the Bronx Zoo to the Kensico Dam and offers a mix of urban and natural scenery.
4. The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge: While not a designated trail, the 9,000-acre park offers flat terrain and the chance to spot birds and other wildlife.
5. The North Woods in Central Park: This picturesque trail is tucked away in the northern part of Central Park and offers a peaceful escape from the crowds.
6. The Staten Island Greenbelt: This 35-mile trail system features a diverse range of terrain, from meadows to forests, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
7. The Highbridge Park Trail: This 5.3-mile trail in Upper Manhattan offers stunning views of the city and the Harlem River.
8. The Shore Road Promenade: This 4.5-mile trail in Brooklyn provides magnificent views of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and New York Harbor.
9. The Forest Park Trail: This 538-acre park in Queens offers a mix of trails for runners of all levels.
10. The Hudson River Park: This 5-mile trail along the Hudson River offers breathtaking waterfront views and a peaceful escape from the city.

Next time you lace up your running shoes, consider exploring one of these hidden running gems. You never know what incredible views and experiences you might uncover!

Exploring the Outdoors: Top 10 Running Routes in New York City

New York City is a great place for runners with its diversity of urban and natural landscapes. Here are the top 10 running routes to explore:

1. Central Park - This iconic park has 6 miles of running paths that weave through lawns, lakes, and hills.
2. East River Park - This riverside park has a 2.25-mile asphalt path perfect for long runs and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
3. Hudson River Park - With its 5 miles of bike paths and running routes, this park offers scenic views of the Hudson River and the New Jersey skyline.
4. Brooklyn Bridge Park - This waterfront park has a 1.3-mile running path with views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline.
5. Prospect Park - This park offers a 3.35-mile loop around the lake and fields, as well as a 5.75-mile loop around the entire park.
6. The High Line - This elevated park has a 1.5-mile running path that takes you through gardens and art installations in the heart of Chelsea.
7. Randall's Island - This island has 7 miles of running paths that offer beautiful views of the city skyline and East River.
8. Forest Park - This park in Queens has a 3-mile running path that weaves through forests, hills, and streams.
9. Van Cortlandt Park - This park in the Bronx has a 1.5-mile cross country trail and a 6.4-mile running path that takes you through forests and open fields.
10. Rockaway Beach Boardwalk - This 5.5-mile boardwalk in Queens is perfect for scenic and serene runs by the ocean.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, exploring New York City by foot is a great way to experience the city and stay in shape. So, put on your running shoes and hit the pavement.

From the City to the Wild: The Best Running Trails in the Big Apple

New York City is one of the most dynamic urban landscapes in the world, full of skyscrapers, iconic bridges, and bustling streets. But sometimes, you just need to escape the concrete jungle and hit the trails for a little peace and quiet. Luckily, New York City has plenty of options for runners looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or just looking to mix up your usual routine, here are some of the best running trails in the Big Apple:

1. Central Park

   No list of New York City running trails would be complete without mentioning Central Park. With more than 50 miles of paths and trails, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, Central Park is a runner's paradise. Whether you're looking for a challenging hill workout or a scenic recovery run, there's a route for you in Central Park.

2. Van Cortlandt Park

   If you're looking for a more rugged trail experience, head up to Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx. The park's extensive trail system winds through forests and wetlands, offering plenty of opportunities to get in touch with nature. Be prepared for some challenging terrain and steep hills, but the stunning views of the Hudson River and the Palisades are well worth the effort.

3. The High Line

   The High Line is a unique elevated park built on an abandoned railroad track on the west side of Manhattan. The park's 1.5-mile trail offers stunning views of the Hudson River and the city skyline, as well as plenty of opportunities to take in the art and architecture of the area. While the High Line isn't a traditional trail, it's a great option for runners looking for a scenic and urban route.

4. Rockaway Beach Boardwalk

   If you're looking for a flat and fast route, check out the Rockaway Beach Boardwalk in Queens. The boardwalk stretches for miles along the beach, offering stunning ocean views and the city skyline. While the boardwalk can get crowded during peak hours, it's a great option for early morning or evening runs.

5. Prospect Park

   In the heart of Brooklyn, Prospect Park offers 3.35 miles of trails winding through forests, fields, and wetlands. The park's trails offer plenty of variety, with challenging hills, flat stretches, and scenic views of the park's lakes and meadows. Plus, the park's proximity to the bustling neighborhoods of Park Slope and Brooklyn Heights makes it a convenient option for city dwellers looking to escape the crowds for a while.