South County Trailway

The trail primarily follows a former railroad right-of-way, so it's mostly flat and smooth. You'll find a paved asphalt or concrete surface, typically about 8 feet wide, making it very easy to follow. While generally gentle, there are some slight elevation changes, with the southernmost 3.5 miles having a good uphill and the northern 9 miles a very gradual uphill.

Yes, absolutely! The South County Trailway is considered an easy, multi-use path, perfect for beginners, families, and people of all ages. Its paved, mostly flat surface makes it ideal for walking, running, and cycling.

Yes, dogs are welcome on the trail! Please ensure your furry friends are kept on a leash at all times to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

The trail offers a varied and scenic journey. You'll pass through wooded areas, parks, and along riverbanks. Notable spots include Woodlands Lake in V.E. Macy Park, where you can also see a Great Hunger Memorial. There's also an observation point north of the Palmer Road overpass offering views of north Yonkers.

The South County Trailway is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides lush greenery and shade. Even in winter, the paved surface can be suitable for a walk, though conditions may vary with snow and ice.

The trail has multiple access points along its 14-mile length through Westchester County. Specific parking information can vary, but common access points are often near parks it connects to, such as V.E. Macy Park or Tibbetts Brook Park. It's advisable to check local county park websites for the most current parking details.

Yes, the South County Trailway is a crucial part of Westchester County's trail system. It seamlessly connects with the North County Trailway at its northern end in Eastview and extends south into Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx, where it becomes the Old Putnam Trail. It is also a section of the statewide Empire State Trail. Additionally, the route also passes through sections of the South County Trailway, Hudson Valley Greenway Trail (Elmsford to New Castle).

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to use the South County Trailway itself, as it's a public multi-use path. However, if you plan to access specific facilities or parks along the route, such as Tibbetts Brook Park, there might be separate fees or regulations for those areas.

V. E. Macy Park is one of the parks accessible from the trail and is home to Woodlands Lake. While the trail itself doesn't require fees, specific amenities or activities within V. E. Macy Park might have their own regulations or fees. It's a great spot for a break, offering scenic views and a chance to see the Great Hunger Memorial.

Yes, the trail has a rich rail-trail heritage. It's built on the former right-of-way of the New York Central Railroad's Putnam Division. You'll find historic markers at most of the former station locations, and the old Elmsford station still stands, now housing a restaurant.

Given its location within Westchester County and proximity to New York City, various public transport options, including buses and commuter rail, may provide access points near the trail. It's best to consult local transit authority websites for specific routes and schedules that serve the towns along the trailway.