Top 4 Lakes around Shokan

For panoramic vistas, visit the View of Ashokan Reservoir and Catskill Mountains. This scenic spot offers extensive views of the reservoir set against the backdrop of the Catskill Mountains, especially from the dividing weir.

The Ashokan Rail Trail is a multi-use trail running alongside the Ashokan Reservoir. It features a compact surface suitable for walking, running, cycling, and in-line skating. The 11.5-mile trail offers varied environments from open views to quiet forest glades and rocky cliffs. Parking areas and restrooms are available at trailheads like the Woodstock Dike Trailhead.

Yes, Onteora Lake is a small, tranquil lake ideal for a rest stop and a picnic. It's also great for watersports and offers mountain biking and hiking trails of varying difficulty.

The Ashokan Reservoir is an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, particularly bird watching. It supports a nesting pair of Bald Eagles and hosts up to six Bald Eagles during winter. It also serves as a stopover for various waterfowl and shorebirds.

The Shokan area offers a variety of outdoor activities. Popular options include hiking and cycling on the Ashokan Rail Trail, mountain biking around Onteora Lake, and fishing in the Ashokan Reservoir. You can find more details on specific routes in the Cycling around Shokan, MTB Trails around Shokan, and Road Cycling Routes around Shokan guides.

Yes, Onteora Lake offers mountain biking trails of varying difficulty. Additionally, the MTB Trails around Shokan guide lists routes like the 'Onteora Lake, Red Eft, and Blue Loops' and the 'Ashokan Rail Trail' which can be explored by mountain bike.

The Ashokan Rail Trail is excellent for cycling, offering an 11.5-mile paved path with scenic views. For longer rides, the Cycling around Shokan guide features routes such as the 'Ashokan Reservoir Promenade loop' and the 'Ashokan Reservoir – Ashokan Rail Trail loop'.

Yes, the Ashokan Reservoir offers excellent recreational fishing for both coldwater and warmwater species, including brown trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and walleye. A free NYC DEP watershed access permit is required for fishing, and rowboats must be approved and registered.

Many trails are family-friendly. The Ashokan Rail Trail, for instance, is a multi-use trail with a compact surface, making it accessible for families with children. The Onteora Lake area also has trails suitable for various skill levels.

The lakes around Shokan offer year-round scenic beauty. For hiking and mountain biking, the period from March to October is generally pleasant, with wildflowers in bloom. Winter also offers unique opportunities for activities like winter hiking around the Ashokan Reservoir area.

Parking areas and restrooms are available at the trailheads of the Ashokan Rail Trail, such as the Woodstock Dike Trailhead. These facilities make it convenient for visitors to access the trails.

The Ashokan Reservoir, created in 1915 by damming the Esopus Creek, is a crucial part of New York City's water supply system. Its construction involved the relocation of several villages, and its history is integral to the development of the city's water infrastructure. Information kiosks along the pathways provide details about its history and purpose.