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Riverside Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 10,920 Google reviews · Running trail in New York, New York · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Riverside Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Storied multilevel park with elms & rocky outcrops, plus a long boulevard & multiple playgrounds.
What runners say about Riverside Park
“The park is also well-maintained, and you can see the care that goes into keeping the grounds clean and inviting.”
“Real nature with green grass, sidewalks, stunning views, birds singing, people everywhere enjoying, you never get bored in this park.”
“One of the highlights of the park is the scenic river view, which offers a serene and picturesque backdrop for picnics, hikes, and even just a leisurely stroll.”
Riverside Park is one of my favorite places to walk. The views of the Hudson River are stunning, and the seasonal flowers make the park even more beautiful.
Riverside Park is one of the larger parks in NY. It has attractions for all kinds of people, and can yield beautiful views any time of year. There is a whole string of various sports fields, hills for children to play on (or even go sledding), trails all throughout, and even a restaurant (Ellington in the Park)…
A beautiful expansive park system that has the feeling of a community. Walking around riverside park you really get to know your neighbors, all their quirks and charm. This park is a valuable asset to us all! Pro tips: -people basically walk their dogs in off leash here 24/7, so you can probably as well.
I came here during the evening to walk my dog and it was so beautiful! The grass was nicely cut, the views so pretty, the atmosphere was calm and I just thought this would be the best place for bridal/couple photos. Super romantic lighting. Great to walk your dog and soooo big!
Trail conditions & character
“great park on Upper West Side with urban sculptures, grassy areas, paths, industrial remnants and overall, a very nice view of the Hudson River.”
“Pro tips: -people basically walk their dogs in off leash here 24/7, so you can probably as well.”
“One of the highlights of the park is the scenic river view, which offers a serene and picturesque backdrop for picnics, hikes, and even just a leisurely stroll.”
Plan your run at Riverside Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitenycgovparks.org
- Phone+1 212-870-3070
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–1 am |
| Tuesday | 6 am–1 am |
| Wednesday | 6 am–1 am |
| Thursday | 6 am–1 am |
| Friday | 6 am–1 am |
| Saturday | 6 am–1 am |
| Sunday | 6 am–1 am |
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