The High Bridge was modeled after Roman aqueducts and features a series of massive stone arches.
The park contains the only free mountain biking course available within Manhattan.
The High Bridge Water Tower was decommissioned in 1949 but was recently restored to maintain its original 1872 aesthetic.
The park was part of the original 1800s plan to provide New York City with a reliable clean water supply from the Croton River.
During the mid-20th century, the park was a significant location for the Works Progress Administration, which funded the construction of the public pool.
The park's cliffside location provides a rare example of the pre-colonial geography of Manhattan island.
The High Bridge was closed to the public for over 40 years before a major renovation and reopening in 2015.
Highbridge Park is anchored by the historic High Bridge, the oldest remaining bridge in New York City, originally constructed in 1848 to carry the Croton Aqueduct across the Harlem River. The park stretches over 119 acres along the rugged cliffs of upper Manhattan, featuring significant elevation changes and varied terrain. It contains the city's first mountain bike course, which offers specialized dirt trails for cyclists. The park’s recreational facilities include the Highbridge Pool, a historic WPA-era outdoor aquatic center. Visitors can traverse the pedestrian-only walkway on the High Bridge, which connects Manhattan to the Bronx. The topography includes rocky outcroppings and dense wooded areas that offer natural shade. The park also features the site of the High Bridge Water Tower, a masonry landmark built in 1872 to increase water pressure for the city. Its geographic position provides expansive views overlooking the Harlem River valley.
The center of the High Bridge looking north toward the Harlem River.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the park's steep staircases and uneven cliffside paths.
Bring your own bicycle if you intend to use the mountain bike trails, as rentals are not available on-site.
Visit the water tower area for the most unobstructed views of the surrounding river landscape.
Do not attempt to walk the entire perimeter in one visit as the terrain is exceptionally hilly and demanding.
The outdoor public pool operates on a seasonal summer-only schedule.
Stay on marked trails to protect the natural vegetation and prevent erosion on the steep hillsides.
