Old Croton Aqueduct Trail:
New York
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Description:
The Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park follows the route of the Old Croton Aqueduct, which carried water to New York City from 1842 to 1955. Most of the structure lies beneath the trail and has been designated a National Historic Landmark. The aqueduct itself remains intact; the northern sections continue to supply water to Ossining.

The trail offers an enjoyable, level, 26 miles from the New Croton Dam in northern Westchester to Van Cortlandt Park at the New York City line. While primarily a walking path, parts of the trail are suitable for horseback riding, biking and, in winter, cross-country skiing. Panoramas of the Hudson River are visible, particularly in Yonkers and Hastings.

Many historic homes, two nature preserves and a museum in Ossining highlighting the construction of the Aqueduct are immediate neighbors. The trail passes through 11 communities, offering and is accessible uphill from Metro-North Hudson Line trains and bus services along Route 9. Cyclists should avoid the trail after heavy rains and during the mud season to reduce erosion.

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Parking & Trail Access:
The trail runs north from the Yonkers - New York City line in Van Cortlandt Park to the Croton Reservoir.

Parking is available on local streets and several municipal parking lots along the trail route. Cyclists are strongly encouraged to use mountain bikes as the trail is rough in certain spots.
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Reviews: [0 trail ratings]
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Westchester Trails Running Site
By Joe Garland in November, 2005
I describe this trail with pictures on wetschestertrails.com This is an unpaved trail; you cannot in-line skate on it.
Fall 2001 Update
By Tony in October, 2001
"It's been over a year since I posted my last review of this trail, so I thought that an update might be in order.

Of all the trails I've biked in the past year, this one still remains my favorite.

I rode the segment from Tarrytown to Yonkers 2 days ago. It's a nice level ride although there are many street crossings to deal with. Once you get into Yonkers, be aware of broken glass in the more populated areas of the City.

I biked the segement from Sleepy Hollow north to the Croton Dam today. There are fewer street crossings on this segment, but you must deal with off trail street detours in several spots. The ride was well worth it though; views from the top of the New Croton Dam were spectacular.

This trail should not be missed by any serious off-road bikers.

E-mail me if you're in the area and want more details.

Safe riding . . . "
My Favorite Unpaved Trail
By Tony in April, 2001
"A great trail for those who enjoy long distance, fast moving off-road biking.

Detours via city streets in Yonkers, Tarrytown, North Tarrytown, and Ossning but otherwise a nicely maintained dirt & gravel trek from NYC to the Old Croton Dam.

Trail doesn't get very much use except just south of the Tappan Zee Bridge in Irvington & Hastings-on-Hudson.

A good starting point is the Sleepy Hollow High School in North Tarrytown. From this point, head north for the most scenic and crowd-free trail portions.

No facilities in place on trail. Bring your own water & food. Maps are available from the Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct. Get one; they're great.

E-mail if in area for more details.

04/06/01"
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