Top 14 Lakes around White Plains

The lakes around White Plains offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy scenic bike rides around Kensico Reservoir and Tarrytown Reservoir. Kayaking is available at Tarrytown Reservoir during summer. For hiking, places like Silver Lake Preserve and Cranberry Lake Preserve offer trails. Additionally, there are dedicated routes for various sports: you can find easy hikes, MTB trails, and road cycling routes throughout the region.

Absolutely. Many lakes in the area are great for families. Woodlands Lake - V. E. Macy Park is a scenic spot with benches and picnic tables, perfect for watching waterfowl. Cranberry Lake Preserve offers nature programs on weekends during the school year and a Nature Center with educational displays. Tarrytown Reservoir and Tarrytown Lakes are also popular for their clear waters and recreational opportunities.

For hiking and walking, Silver Lake Preserve offers trails through woodlands and fields, with historical remnants. Cranberry Lake Preserve also features trails through varied terrain, including cliffs and forests. The Tarrytown Lakes have scenic trails along the shore and through the woods. You can explore various easy hiking routes in the wider White Plains area.

Yes, fishing is permitted in some lakes. Kensico Reservoir is a popular fishing spot known for brown trout, lake trout, largemouth bass, and more. Fishing is also allowed in Silver Lake, specifically within Liberty Park, which includes a section of the lake and offers a fishing dock. However, fishing is not permitted within Silver Lake Preserve or Cranberry Lake Preserve.

Yes, the region combines natural beauty with historical significance. Silver Lake Preserve features old stone foundations from a colonial-era grain mill. Cranberry Lake Preserve includes a History Trail leading to a 19th-century farmhouse and early 20th-century stone-mining operation remains. Both preserves offer a chance to connect with nature and history. You can find more details about Silver Lake Preserve on the Westchester County Parks website: westchestercountyny.gov.

The perimeter of Kensico Reservoir is excellent for scenic bike rides. The Tarrytown Lakes also offer scenic bike tours. The Tarrytown Lake Extension Trail allows for cycling by the water. For more extensive rides, consider the road cycling routes available in the White Plains area.

The lakes and preserves are rich in wildlife. Cranberry Lake Preserve is a haven for migratory birds, turtles, and dragonflies. At Woodlands Lake - V. E. Macy Park, you can often spot various waterfowl. The natural environments of these areas support diverse ecosystems, making them great for nature observation.

Dog policies vary by location. Dogs are generally not permitted in Silver Lake Preserve or Cranberry Lake Preserve. It's always best to check specific regulations for each park or preserve before visiting with your pet.

Yes, during the summer, Tarrytown Reservoir offers kayak rentals at its eastern end, allowing for short boat trips. This is a great way to experience the clear waters from a different perspective.

Both Silver Lake Preserve and Cranberry Lake Preserve are open year-round from 8 a.m. to dusk. The Nature Center at Cranberry Lake Preserve has specific hours, typically Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Always check official websites for any changes to operating hours before your visit.

Kensico Reservoir is a large and scenic body of water that serves as a crucial source of drinking water for New York City, storing water received from the Catskill Mountains. Beyond its functional importance, it's a popular spot for fishing and offers beautiful routes for cycling.

Tarrytown Lakes are known for their beautiful, clear water. A unique feature is a 'bizarre building' located on a tiny island in the middle of one of the lakes, adding an interesting visual element to the scenic views.