One of the greatest treasures of The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) is the Thain Family Forest. For thousands of years, this old-growth forest — in the very heart of The Bronx, no less — has changed, adapted and survived. When you visit the Forest, you walk along Native American hunting trails, see marks left by glaciers, and pass under trees dating back to the American Revolution. The unique beauty and ecological importance of the forest are one of the reasons why the founders selected this site for The New York Botanical Garden in 1895.

Today this is the largest uncut expanse of New York’s original wooded landscape. The forest remains a magnificent reminder of the beauty and resilience of nature in the face of complex human-caused disturbances. To preserve the forest for future generations the Garden manages invasive species, plants native plants, and performs research.

In winter, it takes on a special kind of beauty and it’s ideal for meditative walks in the city.

Go to NYBG for more information.