Highlight (Segment) • Trail
The High Line
Hiking
5.0
(347)
The High Line is a distinctive 1.45-mile-long (2.33 km) elevated linear park, greenway, and rail trail located on the West Side of Manhattan in New York City, United States. This unique urban oasis was ingeniously created on a former New York Central Railroad spur, transforming disused industrial infrastructure into a vibrant public space. It stretches from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District, through the heart of Chelsea, and extends north to West 34th Street near Hudson Yards, offering unparalleled perspectives…
Tips
May 10, 2018
Hiking
•October 29, 2017
Hiking
The High Line Park is located on a 1.4-mile (2.3 km) disused elevated railway line that was built in the 1930's. Beginning in 1934, the railroad, which runs parallel to 10th Avenue, was used to ship meat and poultry to western Manhattan. As transport was increasingly shifted to the road, this made the railway line increasingly redundant. The last train ran on this route in 1980.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 476 m
Downhill 0 m
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Sunday 15 March
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Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall difficulty of walking The High Line?
The High Line is generally considered easy. It is a paved, elevated linear park with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The entire 1.45-mile (2.33 km) length is flat and accessible, designed for leisurely strolls rather than strenuous activity.
How long does it typically take to walk the entire High Line?
Walking the entire 1.45-mile (2.33 km) length of The High Line at a leisurely pace, allowing time to stop and enjoy the views, art, and gardens, usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. If you plan to visit nearby attractions or dine, allocate more time.
Are dogs allowed on The High Line?
No, dogs are generally not permitted on The High Line, with the exception of service animals. This policy helps maintain the cleanliness and ecological balance of the park's unique plantings and ensures a comfortable experience for all visitors.
What are the best public transport options to reach The High Line?
The High Line is easily accessible via New York City's extensive public transport network. You can reach various access points by subway (A, C, E, L, 1, 2, 3 lines) and bus. For example, the 14th Street/8th Avenue station (A, C, E, L) is close to the Gansevoort Street entrance, and the 34th Street-Hudson Yards station (7 line) is near the northern end.
Is The High Line suitable for families with young children?
Yes, The High Line is very family-friendly. It offers a safe, car-free environment for children to explore, with interesting plantings, public art, and unique city views. There are also specific features like the Diller-Von Furstenberg Sundeck and Water Feature (between 14th and 15th Streets) and the 23rd Street Lawn where families can relax. Strollers are easily accommodated.
Which sections of The High Line are wheelchair accessible?
The entire High Line is wheelchair accessible. There are several access points equipped with elevators or ramps, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the park. Key accessible entrances include Gansevoort Street, 14th Street, 16th Street, 23rd Street, 30th Street, and 34th Street.
What are some must-see landmarks or features for first-time visitors?
First-timers should look out for the Gansevoort Woodland at the southern end, the Diller-Von Furstenberg Sundeck and Water Feature (14th-15th Streets), the 10th Avenue Square & Overlook (17th Street) for unique street views, and the various public art installations scattered throughout. The northern sections near Hudson Yards also offer impressive modern architecture.
How crowded does The High Line get, especially on weekends?
The High Line is a very popular attraction and can get quite crowded, especially on pleasant weekend afternoons and during peak tourist seasons (spring and fall). To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting on weekday mornings, early evenings, or during the off-season. Evenings can offer a different, often less crowded, atmosphere.
Are there any notable art installations or exhibitions on The High Line?
Yes, The High Line serves as an open-air gallery with a rotating display of contemporary art. Friends of the High Line commissions new works regularly, including sculptures, murals, and performances. Check the official High Line website before your visit for information on current exhibitions and installations.
What is the history behind The High Line's transformation into a park?
The High Line was originally an elevated freight rail line built in the 1930s to transport goods, bypassing dangerous street-level traffic. After its last train ran in 1980, it fell into disuse and faced demolition. However, a local non-profit, Friends of the High Line, successfully advocated for its preservation and transformation into a public park, inspired by Paris's Promenade Plantée. The first section opened in 2009, with subsequent phases completed by 2014, and further extensions in 2019 and 2023.
Are there good coffee shops or restaurants with views near The High Line?
Absolutely. The High Line traverses vibrant neighborhoods like the Meatpacking District and Chelsea, which are rich with culinary options. You'll find numerous coffee shops and eateries just off the park's access points. For restaurants with views, look for establishments in the surrounding buildings that offer elevated dining experiences overlooking the park or the Hudson River, particularly in the Chelsea and Hudson Yards areas.
What should I wear when visiting The High Line?
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, as you'll be on your feet for an extended period. Dress in layers, as the elevated position can make it breezier than street level, and temperatures can vary. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) is advisable, especially on sunny days, as shade can be limited in some sections.