Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Nature Walk

Enjoy a tranquil nature walk in NYC!

Come join us for a laid-back and beautiful nature walk around the West Pond Trail at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, one of NYC’s best spots for birding, shoreline views, and peaceful outdoor escape. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is part of Gateway National Recreation Area and known for its open water views, intertidal salt marshes, and wetlands. This 1.8-mile loop is flat, wide, and beginner-friendly—perfect for folks who want to take in the scenery without too much elevation or challenge. We'll keep a relaxed pace, taking time to stop for views, wildlife sightings, and anything else that catches our eye.

Please meet us in front of the visitor center. Bring your binoculars if you have them!

How to get there: The visitor center is directly accessible from the Q52+ and the Q53+ bus at the Cross Bay Blvd & Wildlife Refuge stop. If you are using the subway, you can get off at the Broad Channel Station from the A and S lines. From there, it is about a 5-minute walk to the Cross Bay Blvd & Noel Rd bus stop, which is just one stop away from the visitor's center (Cross Bay Blvd & Wildlife Refuge).

What to bring: Bring water, weather-appropriate clothes, bug spray, sturdy footwear, and a positive attitude! Note, there is not much shade on this walk, so please wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat. No dogs allowed on this hike.

If weather forces cancellation, we'll post an update at least 2 hours in advance.

AMC website listing:
https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UUN000001T5gT2AS/act00015122

Co-Leader: Sofia Petroski

Questions or running late? Call/text Sofia at 973-424-7282.

Route distance: 1.8 miles
Pace: Relaxed
Difficulty: Easy

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