Top 7 Lakes around Town of Highlands

Among the most popular lakes are Hessian Lake, located at the base of Bear Mountain, and Lake Tiorati, a key lake within Harriman State Park. Visitors also appreciate Beacon Reservoir for its unique character as a water supply with interesting marine life.

Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. Hessian Lake is ideal for picnics and leisurely walks along its banks. Lake Tiorati features a beach area, making it suitable for swimming and boating, alongside camping and hiking opportunities.

The area around the lakes offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including the 'Lusk Reservoir loop' and the 'Bear Mountain Bridge – Hessian Lake loop'. There are also cycling routes like the 'Candlewood Hill Loop' and 'Highland Falls loop'. For hikers, there are easy trails such as the 'Storm King Mountain loop' and 'Brooks Pond & Popologen Gorge Trail loop'. You can explore more options in the dedicated guides for running, cycling, and easy hikes.

The region is rich in natural beauty, characterized by mountains, forests, and significant water bodies. Beyond the lakes themselves, you can experience stunning views of the Hudson River and surrounding hills from various viewpoints, such as the Viewpoint near Iona Island. The area is part of the larger landscape of Bear Mountain State Park and Harriman State Park.

Yes, there are excellent viewpoints. For instance, the Viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the Hudson River and surrounding hills, and on a clear day, you might even see New York City in the distance. Another notable spot is South Beacon Mountain and Firetower, which provides impressive 360-degree views from its summit.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming and boating at lakes like Lake Tiorati. Fall offers spectacular foliage for hiking and scenic drives. Winter provides opportunities for ice-fishing on Lake Tiorati, while spring is great for enjoying the fresh bloom and milder hiking conditions.

Absolutely. The area is well-known for its hiking opportunities, especially within Bear Mountain State Park and Harriman State Park. You can find trails ranging from easy walks, like those around Hessian Lake, to more challenging routes. For specific easy hiking options, refer to the Easy hikes around Town of Highlands guide.

Beacon Reservoir is unique as it serves as the primary water supply for the town of Beacon. Created by damming Dry Brook, it holds 125 million gallons of water and is noted for its interesting marine life, making it more reminiscent of a species-rich biotope than a typical water reserve.

Visitors frequently enjoy the serene beauty and recreational opportunities. Many appreciate Hessian Lake for its picturesque setting at the foot of Bear Mountain, perfect for picnics and walks. The diverse activities at Lake Tiorati, including swimming, boating, and hiking, are also highly valued by the community.

Lakes like Lake Tiorati, located within Harriman State Park, offer activities such as camping and boating. As these are state park facilities, it is advisable to check the official New York State Parks website for specific regulations, permit requirements, and any fees associated with camping, boating, or other recreational activities to ensure a smooth visit.

Yes, the trails near the lakes offer a range of difficulty levels. For instance, the 'Storm King Mountain loop' is an easy hike, while the 'Bear Mountain Bridge – Hessian Lake loop' for running and the 'Candlewood Hill Loop' for cycling are considered difficult. You can find detailed information on difficulty grades within the specific running, cycling, and hiking guides.

While the lakes themselves are primarily natural features, the broader region around the Town of Highlands, particularly within Bear Mountain State Park, has historical significance. For example, the South Beacon Mountain and Firetower, erected in 1931, served as an important lookout for forest fires in the Hudson Valley, offering a glimpse into the area's past.