This downhill walk begins at the Grand Staircase near Laurel Terrace in Highbridge Park and ends at the Harlem River shoreline in Sherman Creek Park. Starting on the monumental concrete stairs, we will reflect on the legacy of Robert Moses and the infrastructure that prioritized cars, highways, and trucks over pedestrians, bikes, and public transit along Northern Manhattan’s east side.
We’ll follow the Chestnut Trail through Highbridge Park’s urban forest, stopping at the Chestnut Grove to learn about efforts to restore the American chestnut—once dominant in eastern forests.
From there, we continue to Sherman Creek Park and end by the water, exploring the park’s living shoreline and imagining a greener future for the Harlem River waterfront.
Wear comfortable walking shoes. The walk is a moderate downhill route of up to 1.6 miles.
Accessibility
This walk includes stairways and sections of woodchip trail and is therefore not fully wheelchair accessible. The route is approximately 1.6 miles and follows a downhill path through park trails. We encourage everyone to participate; please reach out if you need accommodations so we can explore ways to support your participation.
Location Information
RSVP is required and capacity is limited. Meeting location, ending location, and directions will be provided via email before walk date.
guided
Saturday, May 2, 20261:00 PM
30 minutes
Borough: Manhattan
Theme: Environment, History & Culture
Language: English
