The CLIMB Project is a Northern Manhattan community-based initiative founded on the belief that safe parks and neighborhoods are essential to community health, and that all communities, regardless of socioeconomic background, are entitled to access to safe parks and neighborhoods. The purpose of the project is to combat the problems of gang violence, drugs, obesity, sedentary lifestyles and displacement by engaging residents and organizations in creating a sense of neighborhood and park ownership.

At the core of the CLIMB project is the creation of a multi-use urban hiking trail to link the escarpment parks of northern Manhattan – Highbridge Park, Jackie Robinson Park, St. Nicholas Park, Morningside Park and northern Central Park. In addition to physically stringing these parks together, we propose conceptually linking organizations, institutions and residents in the vicinity of the parks to create and/or strengthen programming and services.

We hope that The CLIMB Chronicles book, which outlines and reflects on our collaborative efforts over the past 13 years, will both provide a framework for promoting community wellness and inspire others to CLIMB their neighborhood!

Additionally, we hope to spread the word on our flagship event, Hike the Heights. Hike the Heights is an annual community hike and celebration in northern Manhattan parks that promotes the use of the Giraffe Path, an urban trail that connects the Cloisters to Central Park. This family-friendly event invites New Yorkers to explore and celebrate the area’s natural treasures by combining physical activity, art, and fun!