I Walk in Central Park Every Day. Here's Why I Always Come Back to the Ravine and Loch.

Walking through Central Park is like falling through the looking glass to Wonderland. Every turn I make, I’ll stumble onto a path I swore wasn't there the last time. One of those places is a secluded woodland trail in the North Woods called the Ravine and Loch. This hidden gem must be added onto your Central Park walking tour.

Of all the places to hike in New York, the Ravine and Loch is one of the most unique. It offers a quiet stroll through picturesque scenery without signs of the industrious bustle that NYC does so well. The Ravine is perfect for those who love to hike but don’t want to leave the city to do so.

Where is the Ravine and Loch?

The Ravine and Loch are located mid-park around 103rd Street. I enter the park through West 101st Street and walk straight into the thick of things. You may be distracted by the Pool, a delightful pond placed on the outer part of the woods, not the public swimming pool, but don't let it suck you in! If you keep walking straight, past the Pool, you’ll find the entrance to the Ravine.

What will you find in the Ravine and Loch?

At the entrance, you'll see a sign that says "Ravine and Loch." That’ll lead you down some steps, where you’ll find yourself face-to-face with a waterfall. This is one of three waterfalls you'll stumble upon along your walk.

Meander underneath the Huddlestone Arch, the first of two impressive archways in the Ravine. You'll be submerged in vibrant vegetation lining the perimeter of the trail, as green as the eye can see. And, of course, you'll get well acquainted with the trail's leading lady, the Loch. This silent stream ebbs and flows through the Ravine, providing waterside companionship as you conquer this incredible hike.

You'll find plenty of vistas to stop and take that Instagram photo, and pit stops for birdwatching. The Ravine is a great place for animal spotting as it's often less occupied than other Central Park woodlands like the Ramble. 

Finally, you’ll say goodbye to the Ravine at the Glen Span Arch and exit on the park's east side. Nearby are the Harlem Meer, the Conservatory Gardens, and general civilization.

How were the Ravine and Loch designed?

As you wander through, it may be hard to believe that the wilderness you’re engrossed in was man-made. I hate to credit humankind for ‘building nature’ when the entire island of Manhattan has been overrun by industry. Still, it’s rather impressive how natural the Ravine and Loch pretend to be. The Loch was in part crafted by outlining Montayne’s Rivulet, the already existing stream in that area of the park.

Central Park designers Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux designed the Ravine to resemble woodlands found in upstate New York, such as the Adirondacks or the Catskills. Olmsted and Vaux wanted to create the illusion that visitors have entered a wilderness sanctuary without any traces of the concrete jungle that surround its borders. I believe they accomplished their mission. When walking through the Ravine, you’ll forget about the outside world and see only nature ahead of you.

*Tip: Wear bug spray! New York City is experiencing a tick surge this summer (2025) and it’s brutal out there.

The Ravine and Loch in Central Park • Central Park Walking Tour • Central Park Hidden • NYC Gems • Great walks in nyc