Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Lakes
North America
United States
New York
Westchester County

Katonah

Top 8 Lakes around Katonah

Best lakes around Katonah include several reservoirs that are part of the New York City water supply system, alongside smaller natural lakes. This region in New York offers various bodies of water known for their recreational opportunities and scenic landscapes. Many of these lakes provide access for activities such as fishing and boating, often requiring specific permits. The area's geography is characterized by these significant water features, contributing to its natural appeal.

Best lakes around Katonah

  • The most popular lakes…

Last updated: June 28, 2026

Red Bridge over the Croton Reservoir

Highlight • Bridge

As usual when passing this spot, great view. Almost with any type of weather.

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

This is a beautiful section of the North County Trailway, where you get to ride surrounded by trees and along the small Echo Lake.

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Titicus Reservoir North Side

Highlight (Segment) • Lake

Beautiful, fast segment with minimal traffic.

Tip by

Save

Cross River Reservoir

Highlight • Lake

Cross River Reservoir is a freshwater lake in scenic Westchester County. It is in a gorgeous forest setting, and when you cycle past it here on the Old Post Road …

Tip by

Save

Bechtel Lake

Highlight (Segment) • Lake

This trail guides you past Bechtel Lake, one of the three bodies of water within the Westmoreland Sanctuary, contributing to the serene ambiance of the area. It's quite easy to navigate this trail since it's meticulously maintained.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Katonah.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Katonah

Hiking around Katonah

Cycling around Katonah

Road Cycling Routes around Katonah

Running Trails around Katonah

Gravel biking around Katonah

Tips from the Community

David Howells
January 30, 2024, Cross River Reservoir

Cross River Reservoir is a freshwater lake in scenic Westchester County. It is in a gorgeous forest setting, and when you cycle past it here on the Old Post Road Bridge, the views are simply stunning. As you look out over both sides of the bridge, there is nothing but tranquil water and a tree-lined shoreline. In the fall, the colors are stunning!

0

0

This trail guides you past Bechtel Lake, one of the three bodies of water within the Westmoreland Sanctuary, contributing to the serene ambiance of the area. It's quite easy to navigate this trail since it's meticulously maintained.

1

0

Great views of Croton reservoir and the red bridge itself is worth a stop. That said watch out for stopped cyclist and pedestrians if you're biking through.

2

0

Felix
October 28, 2022, Bechtel Lake

It's very close to the start (or end) of the hike and a nice stop

0

0

Part of the North county trailway, it's nice to ride without cars. Bathrooms in Law Memorial park in Briarcliff Manor

0

0

This is a beautiful section of the North County Trailway, where you get to ride surrounded by trees and along the small Echo Lake.

0

0

As usual when passing this spot, great view. Almost with any type of weather.

3

0

A scenic road cycling segment. Cars go quite fast and the shoulder is not wide enough, so be careful!

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most scenic viewpoints around the lakes near Katonah?

For stunning views, consider visiting the Red Bridge over the Croton Reservoir, which offers expansive vistas of the reservoir. Another excellent spot is the Cross River Reservoir, especially when cycling past it on the Old Post Road Bridge, where you can enjoy tranquil water and tree-lined shorelines.

Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes near Katonah?

Yes, several spots are great for families. The North County Trailway, which passes along Echo Lake, is a car-free route perfect for family cycling. Bechtel Lake, located within the Westmoreland Sanctuary, also offers easy-to-navigate trails suitable for families.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Katonah?

The area around Katonah's lakes offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the easy Green Trail Loop or Muscoot Farm Yellow Trail. For cycling, options include the Titicus Reservoir North Side for scenic road cycling or the North County Trailway for a car-free ride. Anglers will appreciate the fishing opportunities at Cross River Reservoir and Lake Katonah. For more detailed route information, explore the hiking, running, and cycling guides for Katonah.

Do I need a permit for fishing or boating on the reservoirs?

Yes, for reservoirs like Cross River Reservoir, which are part of the New York City water supply system, access for recreation such as fishing and boating (with approved and registered rowboats) typically requires a free NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) watershed access permit.

What are the best lakes for fishing in the Katonah area?

The Cross River Reservoir is renowned as one of the best trout waters, annually stocked with brown trout, and also offers impressive largemouth and smallmouth bass. Lake Katonah is another recognized spot popular among anglers.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites near the lakes?

The Red Bridge over the Croton Reservoir is a notable landmark itself, offering picturesque views. Historically, the village of Katonah was moved in 1897 to make way for the construction of the New Croton Dam and the expanded Muscoot Reservoir, highlighting the area's connection to the NYC water supply system.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Katonah?

Visitors frequently praise the scenic views, especially from spots like the Red Bridge over the Croton Reservoir. The tranquility of the water and tree-lined shorelines, particularly during fall, are often highlighted. The car-free cycling experience on the North County Trailway is also a favorite.

Are there easy walking trails around the lakes for beginners?

Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For instance, the trail past Bechtel Lake within the Westmoreland Sanctuary is meticulously maintained and easy to navigate. The nearby hiking guide for Katonah lists easy routes like the Green Trail Loop and Muscoot Farm Yellow Trail.

What are the seasonal considerations for visiting the lakes near Katonah?

The lakes offer beauty year-round. Fall is particularly stunning due to the vibrant colors of the tree-lined shorelines, as noted by visitors to the Cross River Reservoir. Spring and summer are ideal for fishing and cycling, while winter can offer serene, snow-covered landscapes, though some recreational access might be limited.

Can I bring my dog to the trails around Katonah lakes?

While specific regulations can vary by location, many natural areas and trails in the region are dog-friendly. It's always best to check local signage or the specific park's website for the most current rules regarding pets, especially around reservoir properties which may have stricter guidelines.

What is the size of the major reservoirs in the Katonah area?

The reservoirs vary in size. Cross River Reservoir covers 915 acres, Muscoot Reservoir is larger at 1,263 acres, Croton Falls Reservoir spans 1,062 acres, and Titicus Reservoir has an area of 681 acres. Lake Katonah is a smaller, more intimate lake at approximately 25 acres.

Are there cycling routes that offer views of the lakes?

Absolutely. The North County Trailway provides a beautiful car-free cycling experience along Echo Lake. Additionally, the Titicus Reservoir North Side is a scenic road cycling segment with reservoir views. You can find more cycling options in the cycling guide for Katonah.

Most popular routes around Katonah

Hiking around Katonah

Most popular attractions around Katonah

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found your perfect lake around Katonah? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

Briarcliff ManorVillage of TarrytownSleepy HollowOssiningChappaquaPleasantvilleTown/Village of HarrisonElmsfordArmonkVillage of IrvingtonHawthorneValhallaWhite PlainsThornwoodMillwoodVillage of Dobbs FerryArdsleyFairviewScarsdaleMount KiscoHartsdaleGreenvilleVillage of Hastings-on-HudsonBedfordCroton-On-HudsonYonkersNew RochelleRye BrookPort ChesterVerplanckJefferson Valley-YorktownScotts CornersBedford HillsRyeGolden'S BridgeBronxvilleCrompondYorktown HeightsMontroseLake MoheganShrub OakMamaroneckTuckahoeEastchesterPeekskillPelham ManorLarchmontMount VernonPelham

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Bedford Hills

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy