High Rock Park on Staten Island is stunning. At a hair over 90 acres in size, it’s the smallest park I’ve visited in this area, but what it lacks in acreage, it makes up for in just about every other way. There is nothing predictable about this glorious little park – the trails take you up steep inclines and drop you suddenly down into quiet clearings with crystal clear ponds that catch the light and take your breath away. It is touted as being one of the most tranquil places in New York City, and I can attest to that. It was such a joy to completely and utterly escape the noise of traffic that seems to be part and parcel of life in the big city. I didn’t honestly believe it would be possible, but I stood quietly in the depths of these woodlands and strained to make out even the faintest suggestion of the metropolis that lay beyond. Nothing. Just the creak of trees swaying in the gentle breeze, the murmur of water, the rustle of birds in the leaves and the crackle of squirrels foraging in the undergrowth. It was delightful, delicious, decadent and lots of other delectable words beginning with the letter d. Have a look at the incredible beauty of this divine little park.
For my adventure getting back from Staten Island, read Ferryland.
The Eco and the Id 
There are so many people who have no idea what wondrous places there are in and around New York. Of the five boroughs, Staten Island may have the worst image of all. Thank you for spreading the word.
Snug Harbor is also fantastic and only 10 mins from the SI ferry – went there yesterday too but haven’t written about it yet. My favourite part of yesterday’s adventure, however, happened on the ferry ride back to Manhattan. If you have a quick mo, check out Ferryland. xoxo Ailsa
How far away from NYC is this park? It looks wonderful.
It is wonderful, Mario, and not too bad a journey from the city. From the SI ferry terminal I took the S74 to the intersection of Richland Road and Rockland Avenue (takes maybe 30 mins). The main entrance is accessed by walking along Richland Road for about 1/4 mile and taking a right on Nevada Avenue – but if you want to dive straight into the woodlands sooner, take the first right along Richland Road – Tonking Road. It’s a short little residential street that dead ends at the park, and there’s access straight onto a trail right there – follow that trail up for a little bit and you’ll run into the first of many beautiful little ponds – the one where I got the picture of the ducks. Have fun!
Reflected is my fav!! Nice work!!
Thanks Juanita, the view of that particular pond when it appeared in front of me was just breathtaking. x
The light shining through the autumn leaves was glorious! And the three ducks in the glimmering pond made me smile. Nice!
They made me smile too Susie 🙂