Running and Walking Trails in Park Slope, Brooklyn

Park Slope, Brooklyn, is not only home to charming brownstones and tree-lined streets but also offers some of the best running and walking trails in the area. Whether you are a seasoned runner, an occasional jogger, or someone who enjoys a peaceful walk, the trails in and around Park Slope provide a variety of experiences. From the well-known Prospect Park loops to hidden nature trails and scenic greenways, the neighborhood offers an array of paths that suit all fitness levels. Here’s a guide to the best running and walking trails in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

One of the most popular destinations for both runners and walkers in Park Slope is Prospect Park. The park offers a variety of trails, each with its unique features, scenery, and difficulty level. The Park Drive Loop, also known as the Prospect Park Loop, is the main trail that encircles the entire park. This paved 3.3 to 3.7-mile loop is a favorite for locals due to its diverse landscapes, including the expansive Long Meadow, tranquil Prospect Lake, and the shaded woodlands of the Ravine. This route is moderately hilly with a gentle incline on the park’s north end and is car-free, making it perfect for safe running and walking. The path also includes a dedicated running lane, ensuring a safe experience for athletes. The loop is lit after dark, allowing for evening runs or walks, and offers multiple water fountains and restrooms along the way during warmer months.

For those who seek a more rustic experience, Prospect Park also has interior nature trails like the Ravine and Lullwater Trails. The Ravine, Brooklyn’s only forest, offers a quiet escape with its dense woods, babbling streams, and small waterfalls. The Waterfall Trail, located in this area, is especially scenic, winding through the forest and crossing charming rustic bridges. Another popular trail is the Lullwater Trail, a peaceful 0.9-mile paved footpath that runs along a wooded inlet of Prospect Lake. This trail is perfect for birdwatching and taking a relaxing stroll. Both trails offer a serene atmosphere and provide ample shade, making them great for those who prefer to walk or jog in a more tranquil setting. Although the paths can be uneven and muddy after rain, they provide a refreshing contrast to the more crowded areas of the park.

Just south of Park Slope, Green-Wood Cemetery offers a unique, scenic route for walkers and joggers. While running is not allowed inside the cemetery, the perimeter path offers a picturesque 3.5-mile loop that provides a more challenging workout due to its hilly terrain. Green-Wood Cemetery sits on one of the highest points in Brooklyn, which means you’ll encounter a variety of inclines along the route. The trail is lined with majestic trees, ponds, and elaborate monuments, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. On the west side near Battle Hill, you can even glimpse the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline through the trees. While the route is mostly along city streets, the sidewalk path provides ample space for running and walking. However, there are no water fountains along the perimeter, so it’s best to bring your own water or stop at nearby shops or the cemetery’s visitor center. The route is also well-lit by streetlights, though some areas may be dim at night, making it ideal for daytime or early evening workouts.

For those who prefer to run along the waterfront, the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway is an excellent choice. Though the greenway is still under development, you can start your route in Park Slope and head west toward Red Hook. The Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway offers a scenic path with views of the harbor, fishing boats, and the Statue of Liberty. The route runs through Gowanus and Red Hook, offering a unique mix of industrial and artsy landscapes. One popular route is to head west on Union Street or 3rd Street from Park Slope, eventually reaching the waterfront piers. You can continue through Louis Valentino Jr. Park or explore the Red Hook waterfront greenway segment for an out-and-back run or loop. Depending on how far you go, the distance can range from 4 to 8 miles. Along the way, you’ll pass parks with amenities such as water fountains, bathrooms, and cafés, making it a comfortable route for a longer run.

If you prefer a flat, uninterrupted route, the Ocean Parkway Greenway is a great option for long runs or bike rides. Starting at Park Circle at the southern edge of Park Slope, this historic median greenway runs all the way to Coney Island, offering a straight path of approximately 5 miles one-way. The Ocean Parkway Malls, which date back to 1894, were the first dedicated bike path in the United States, and today, they continue to serve as a safe, scenic route for runners, walkers, and cyclists. The path is shaded by trees and runs through residential neighborhoods, providing a peaceful environment for those who prefer a steady, long-distance run. While the scenery is not as varied as some of the other trails, the greenway offers a safe and well-lit route for early morning or evening workouts. Amenities along the route are limited, but there are benches and some playgrounds along the way for brief rest stops.

In addition to the major greenways, Park Slope also offers several neighborhood routes that are perfect for a quick jog or leisurely walk. These routes run through the residential streets of Park Slope, offering tree-lined avenues and quieter, less trafficked paths. A great option for locals is to explore the streets surrounding Prospect Park, where you can easily create your own route depending on your desired distance. These routes provide a peaceful and scenic way to enjoy the neighborhood without venturing too far from home.

Park Slope, Brooklyn, is home to a variety of running and walking trails that cater to all levels of fitness. From the well-maintained paths of Prospect Park to the scenic waterfront greenways and hilly routes around Green-Wood Cemetery, there is no shortage of outdoor spaces to explore. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a vigorous run, Park Slope’s diverse range of trails provides plenty of options for enjoying the great outdoors.

For those looking to live near the scenic trails and vibrant parks of Park Slope, Brooklyn, The Agency Brooklyn is here to help. Their team of real estate experts can guide you through the process of finding the perfect home near the area’s best green spaces. Whether you’re a runner, walker, or simply someone who enjoys being close to nature, reach out to The Agency Brooklyn today to explore your real estate options in Park Slope!