The Gerritsen Creek salt marsh trails and Nature Center (Brooklyn, NY) are located on Avenue U (south side) between Burnett and East 33rd streets. The building (including restrooms) is open year-round, every day (except Wednesday) from 11 to 5. 

According to the Salt Marsh Alliance website, the Nature Center opened on Earth Day in April 2000. The open waters of Gerritsen Creek are an important refuge for ducks, geese, and other waterfowl. This wetland ecosystem can be viewed from nearly five miles of shoreline.

The Center offers a program of events throughout the year. All events are free of charge.  To see the monthly calendar of events, click here: SaltMarshAlliance.org.
Public parking is available across from the Nature Center. 

The main trail on the eastern edge of Gerritsen Creek is a one-mile loop. The westernmost  trail (entrance on Avenue U near   Brunett Street runs along the water for about one mile, ending at Gerritsen Beach.  If you walk the length of this trail, please be aware of the tide schedule.

Dogs are permitted on the trails but must be leashed, and waste must be picked up. The trails are open from 6 am to dusk. For more information, call 718-421-2021.

Salt Marsh Alliance
From the Salt Marsh Alliance website: "The Salt Marsh Alliance, a not-for-profit organization, was formed in 2002 to supplement city funding for the Salt Marsh Nature Center. As residents of Marine Park and Gerritsen Beach, we believe that this educational facility, its beautiful nature trails, and its community-oriented events are valuable assets to our neighborhood.

"In this era of city and state budget cuts, the Salt Marsh Alliance provides a way for private citizens and local businesses to help maintain the Nature Center in a win-win partnership with New York City's Parks and Recreation Department and the Urban Park Rangers."

Volunteers Needed
Volunteers are always needed. There are jobs for every skill level.  Contact Nature Center coordinator Rita Sandler at 718-421-2021 to learn more about volunteer opportunities.

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