Explore Brooklyn's Only Forest and Hidden Waterfalls This Fall

Tucked behind Prospect Park's open lawns, the Ravine delivers an unexpected taste of the Adirondacks in Brooklyn. Olmsted and Vaux sculpted this woodland gorge around flowing water, stone footbridges, and steep slopes that feel removed from the borough. Sustained restoration since 1996 brought native oaks, sweetgums, and wildlife back to an eroded hillside.

Entering near 15th Street and Prospect Park West leads onto canopy paths along the stream toward Binnen Falls and Ambergill. Fall colors often linger into November, though peak foliage varies with the weather, and with sunset around 4:35 PM, daytime hours are best. The Ravine trail is free and open daily from 5 AM to 1 AM (general park listings show 6:00 AM–1:00 AM, so check posted gate signs). Solo walkers ages 18+ can also RSVP on Partiful for the free NYC Foodies 3-mile stroll meeting at Grand Army Plaza on Saturday, November 14 at 3:00 PM (this park-wide route loops Long Meadow, Nethermead, and the Lake without entering the Ravine; check the event page for details). Official info: NYC Parks – Prospect Park Trails, checked 11/03.