Woodlawn Wednesdays
2025-03-19 09:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
Help restore the beautiful woodlands on the east side of Van Cortlandt Park! Join us for Woodlawn Wednesdays, where volunteers like you play a vital role in preserving this important urban ecosystem.
Each week, we’ll focus on hands-on tasks that vary with the seasons including:

Removing Invasive Species: Help us tackle invasive plants like multiflora rose, bush honeysuckle, bittersweet, and Japanese angelica, which threaten our native flora.
Maintaining Trails: Ensure trails are clear and accessible for all park visitors.
Planting Native Species: Contribute to the forest’s future by planting native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers.

No experience is necessary! We provide all tools and gloves. You’ll also learn about native plants, invasive species management, and forest ecology from experienced volunteers.
Meet outside the handball courts at the Woodlawn Playground on the park’s east side.
What to Bring:

Long sleeves, long pants (denim or canvas recommended), and a hat
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Water bottle and snacks
Sunscreen and bug spray (recommended)
Your enthusiasm for conservation!

RSVP Now.

Goodbye to Winter: Sunset Equinox Hike
2025-03-19 18:00 - 19:30
Join us for a magical equinox sunset hike in Van Cortlandt Park. This easy 1.5-mile hike to Vault Hill and back offers an unforgettable farewell to winter, enriched with plant identification and scenic views. Perfect for those looking to welcome spring with open arms.
Event Details:

When: March 19, 2024, 6:00 PM – 7:34 PM
Where: Meeting spot – Southern end of Van Cortlandt Golf House
Route: Scenic hike to Vault Hill, suitable for all fitness levels. Expect a moderate climb to reach Vault Hill.
Capacity: 25 participants. Registration required; waitlist available
Activities: Plant identification, visit to Vault Hill Cemetery, discussion on equinox significance. Collective send off to winter and welcome of spring.
What to Bring: Weather-appropriate clothing, light-colored attire, camera, flashlights (if desired), and water.

Celebrate the equinox with us as we say goodbye to winter and welcome the fresh beginnings of spring in a community of nature lovers.
RSVP Now.

Trail Work Thursdays
2025-03-20 09:00 - 12:00
Be a part of the community effort to maintain the trails in Van Cortlandt Park. Whether you’re an experienced trailblazer or new to trail maintenance, your help will make a significant impact!
Meeting Details:
Location: Van Cortlandt Park, Garden and Education Compost Site, across from Riverdale Stables.
Time: 9 am sharp; work begins at 9:15 am
Upcoming Activities Include:
Clearing debris and overgrowth
Ensuring trail safety and accessibility
Desire line closures
What to Bring:
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing
Closed-toed shoes
Water and a snack
Why Join Us?
Contribute to the vitality and safety of the trails you love! Engage with fellow community members, learn about trail maintenance, and enjoy the satisfaction of hands-on work in the great outdoors.
Necessary tools and gloves will be provided!
Want to bring a group? This event is limited to small groups of 5 or less. If you would like to bring more 6 or more people please reach out to stewardship@vancortlandt.org to schedule a separate event.

RSVP Now.
