Old Croton Aqueduct and Teatown Lake Loop

This loop combines varied terrain. The Old Croton Aqueduct Trail sections are largely single-track dirt pathways, but also include paved and on-road segments. While generally easy, some parts can be rocky, root-filled, or steep. It can get muddy after rain. Teatown Lake Reservation offers almost 15 miles of trails with varying difficulty, from easy to moderately difficult, featuring fields, forests, lakes, streams, and boardwalks like the one at Teatown Lake Boardwalk.

You'll encounter a mix of historical and natural sights. Highlights include the historic Underneath the Croton Aqueduct, the scenic Teatown Lake with its distinctive boardwalk, and the impressive New Croton Dam. The route also passes through the Sing Sing Kill Greenway and near other points of interest like Park Bale American Legion Post and Grace Hall.

Parking options vary depending on where you start. For the Teatown Lake Reservation portion, there is a parking fee for non-members. For sections of the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail, parking can often be found in adjacent towns or designated trail access points, though specific fees may apply depending on the location. Always check local signage.

Yes, both the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail and Teatown Lake Reservation generally allow dogs. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

Spring and fall are often considered the best times to hike this loop. In spring, you'll see wildflowers and lush greenery, especially at Teatown. Fall offers spectacular foliage. Summer can be pleasant, but be prepared for heat and humidity. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions can be icy or muddy, especially on less maintained sections.

Yes, Teatown Lake Reservation charges a parking fee for non-members. This fee helps support the preserve's conservation and educational efforts. There are no specific hiking permits required beyond the parking fee.

Yes, this route is a combination of several trails. It extensively uses sections of the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail and various trails within Teatown Lake Reservation, including the Lakeside Loop and Three Lakes Loop. Notably, the Teatown-Kitchawan Trail (TKT) is a 6.5-mile trail that specifically links Teatown Lake Reservation with the Old Croton Aqueduct Trailway.

This is a challenging hike covering approximately 23 kilometers (14.3 miles) with moderate elevation gain. It typically takes around 6 to 7 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or explore highlights.

Given its length (23 km) and 'difficult' rating, the full loop might be too challenging for younger children. However, sections of both the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail and Teatown Lake Reservation offer easier, shorter options that are very family-friendly. For example, Teatown's Lakeside Loop is rated easy and features boardwalks.

Yes, particularly in the towns along the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail sections. You can find restaurants and cafes in nearby communities. For instance, No 3 Westerly Bar and Grill is a highlight along the route. Teatown Lake Reservation has a visitor center with exhibits, but specific food services might be limited to vending or nearby towns.

Both the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail and Teatown Lake Reservation are rich in wildlife. Along the Aqueduct, you might spot white-tailed deer, red-tailed hawks, and various woodpeckers. Teatown is home to diverse habitats, increasing your chances of seeing a variety of birds, small mammals, and aquatic life around the lakes and marshlands. Teatown also has an outdoor raptor loop trail featuring hawks, owls, and a bald eagle.

While not a single, officially designated 'Old Croton Aqueduct and Teatown Lake Loop trail,' this route is designed as a loop by combining sections of the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail with the extensive trail system of Teatown Lake Reservation. This allows for a circular journey, offering varied scenery and experiences without retracing your steps.