Top 5 Natural Areas to See Snow in Each NYC Borough

If you’ve lived in New York City over the past few years, you’ve likely noticed that snow has sadly been scant over the winter months. But this year that’s thankfully changed! We’ve been presented with beautiful snowfalls that have dusted our trees and decorated our rooftops. And what better way is there to admire the magic of snow than in natural areas? Read on below for a list of the top 5 spots in each borough to see the beauty of snow!

1. Inwood Hill Park, Manhattan

How to get there: Take the A train to Inwood-207 Street station or the 1 train to 215 Street station.

This time of year, Inwood truly feels like a winter wonderland. With over 150 acres of natural area, you can escape the hubbub of the city and find serenity under its many old gingko and oak trees. Take the blue trail for views of the Hudson river, or opt for the orange and white trails to visit the heart of Inwood’s urban forest.

2. Forest Park, Queens

How to get there: Take the J train to 85 St-Forest Pkwy station, or the BM5 bus to Woodhaven Blvd/ Forest Park Drive

Forest Park earns its name, with its urban forest of over 300 acres! With such a massive landscape, there are endless snow-viewing possibilities in this beautiful natural area. Take a walk through the pine grove and admire the dusted conifers, or take a peek at the frozen over Strack Pond along the Red Trail.

3. Prospect Park, Brooklyn

How to get there: F/G trains to 15 Street Prospect Park station, B/Q to Prospect Park station, or 2, 3, 4, 5 trains to Grand Army Plaza station.

A Brooklyn favorite for good reason! Prospect Park is an excellent natural area to view snow with its charming ravine paths and stunning lake. It’s also perfect for families with young children! Enjoy sledding on Long Meadow, go skating at LeFrak Center, or even make a snowman or two.

4. Willowbrook Park, Staten Island

How to get there: Take the SIM4C or SIM33C buses to Richmond Ave, Staten Island.

This may be the most peaceful park in Staten Island in winter! When the snow blankets the woods and clings to its trees, it makes for a wondrous experience in nature. With over 160 acres of natural areas, this park has plenty of spots to meditate on winter’s beauty—including its 5 acre lake.

5. Bronx Park, Bronx

How to get there: 2, 3 trains to Bronx Park East station

This little known park with 36 acres of natural area is a gorgeous place for respite. With the Bronx River snaking through, you’ll be able to enjoy many quaint bridge crossings and get a healthy dose of this park’s old forest.

We hope you enjoy New York City’s magical winter this year. Remember to dress warmly! While you’re at it, check out our winter wildlife blog post for a list of what fauna to look out for this season.