Women's History Month: Cass Gallagher Trail in Van Cortland Park

Celebrate Florence "Cass" Gallagher during Women's History Month with a hike on the eponymous trail in Van Cortlandt Park.

Women's History Month 2026 celebrates "Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future" this year. No local personality better exemplifies this sentiment than Cass Gallagher. A long-time Bronx resident and environmental activist, she was a driving force in protecting Van Cortland Park. She was a founder of the Friends of Van Cortlandt Park, which joined with the Van Cortlandt Park Conservancy in 2019 to become the Van Cortlandt Park Alliance that we know today. In recognition of her efforts, the Cass Gallagher Nature Trail was named in her honor in 1984.

We will make our way north to explore the Cass Gallagher trail and other routes in the Northwest Forest. This 1.4 mile loop trail in the northwest portion of the park is perhaps the prettiest part of the park and a favorite location to spot wildlife. The pace will be moderate to brisk at about 2 mph on uneven terrain with hills. Expect to be out for 3 hours. If there is time and interest, we may also tour the Van Cortlandt Mansion or stop for carrot cake at Lloyd's Bakery!

Meet us at 9:30am in front of the public restrooms on Broadway, just north of the 242nd Street #1 subway station. Bus routes Bx9, BxM 3, B-L1, B-L2 and B-L3 also stop near the restrooms. Burger King and a convenience store are across the street.

Bring water and snacks/lunch. Wear weather-appropriate clothing, and sturdy shoes. Weather can be unpredictable in March, so be prepared!

Register for this trip at activities.outdoors.org or RSVP on Meetup. All participants will be asked to sign a liability waiver at the trailhead.

AMC Health Advisory: Covid and other respiratory illnesses are circulating in our communities. Do not participate in this hike if you, or someone who you have recently been in contact with, is either infected or symptomatic.

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